The Urban Institute is a nonprofit research organization founded on one simple idea: To improve lives and strengthen communities, we need practices and policies that work. For more than 50 years, that has been our charge. By equipping changemakers with evidence and solutions, together we can create a future where every person and community has the opportunity and power to thrive.
Our Mission
To drive impact by equipping changemakers with evidence and solutions.
Our Vision
A future where every person and community has the opportunity and power to thrive.
Our Impact Objectives
Urban achieves its mission through five key objectives:
- Increase upward mobility
- Create communities of opportunity and shared prosperity
- Build a fair and just society
- Improve people’s well-being
- Promote effective use of resources
Our Values
Collaboration
Whether working with fellow Urban Institute colleagues or partnering with communities, we strive to build teams with a wide range of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. We seek to maintain a culture of mutual respect where everyone feels their contributions are valued.
Equity
Our team members are united by the belief that every person should have the chance to achieve their highest potential. We are committed to providing data and evidence to advance fairness and justice in our society.
Inclusivity
In our research, we recognize firsthand experience as a form of evidence, important for conducting many forms of high-quality, rigorous analysis. We strive to foster a workplace culture where every employee feels heard, respected, and valued.
Independence
Urban does not have an agenda, ideological or otherwise, nor do we take institutional positions on issues. Team members have autonomy to pursue new ideas, and they are empowered and supported to share their own evidence-based views and policy recommendations.
Integrity
Our experts are committed to following the facts wherever they lead, offering solutions to societal, policy, and organizational challenges that are rooted in rigorous research. Our strong policies, practices, and cultural norms ensure conclusions are rooted in evidence and free from outside influence, and that we are transparent about our funding sources.
