Investment Philosophy

For over seven decades, Pew has developed creative ideas and taken calculated risks that have led to tangible improvements in people’s lives.  Our experience has taught us that public-spirited individuals and organizations can achieve great success when they come together, exchange knowledge, and leverage resources.

Although our projects vary in scale and scope, Pew maintains a consistent investment philosophy for all of our work—an approach driven by our history and values.  Current and emerging issues are identified through a rigorous selection process, and are moved forward only when there is:

• A clear need for action
• Solid evidence about the primary cause of the problem
• At least one feasible option for addressing the issue
• A willingness by important constituencies to act
• A way for Pew to add unique value, and
• A reasonable opportunity for meaningful and tangible progress.

Whether our work is local, state-based or global, we utilize a pragmatic, fact-based, and disciplined approach to addressing causes that serve the public good. Each project addresses a unique challenge, adheres to Pew’s mission, and advances the founders’ belief that progress springs from data, science and facts.