SUNY's nonpartisan public policy think tank conducting rigorous research on state and local governance.
The Rockefeller Institute of Government is SUNY's public policy think tank dedicated to improving governance through rigorous, objective research and analysis. The Institute conducts cutting-edge nonpartisan research on state and local government finance, American federalism, public management, and New York State issues. Primary research areas include economic development, education, federalism, fiscal policy, health policy, government reform, gun violence, and immigrant integration.
The Institute operates multiple specialized centers and fellowship programs to prepare the next generation of public leaders. These include the Empire State Fellows Program (a two-year leadership training program), the New York State Science Policy Fellowship for PhDs in science and technology, the Richard P. Nathan Public Policy Fellowship, the Center for Law & Policy Solutions, and the Institute on Immigrant Integration Research and Policy. The Institute also runs the Local Government Lab and Future Leaders in Policy Competition.
The Institute provides comprehensive data services through its Data Hub with New York State statistics and tax revenue data. It publishes research on pressing policy issues including mass shootings, data center development, SUNY's economic impact, healthcare policy, dam modernization, and disability services. The Institute disseminates findings through reports, webinars, podcasts, and public engagement to inform citizens and policymakers.