Investment Philosophy

For 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.