April 7, 2025Policy Guide

State Evidence-Based Grantmaking Guide

State/ 2025/

State governments invest over $1 trillion each year to improve outcomes for their residents. Ensuring these dollars are used effectively requires a commitment to evidence-based grantmaking. By leveraging data and proven solutions, state leaders can maximize impact and improve economic mobility and well-being.

Results for America’s State Evidence-Based Grantmaking Guide helps state officials integrate evidence into grantmaking decisions. This guide outlines three key action steps and showcases how state leaders have successfully applied these principles to advance economic opportunity.

3 Steps to Evidence-Based Grantmaking

  1. Define Evidence Clearly
  2. Apply Evidence to Prioritize Grant Funding
  3. Modify Policies to Institutionalize Evidence-Based Practices

How States Are Leading the Way
Numerous states have already adopted evidence-based grantmaking strategies. From requiring grant applicants to meet evidence standards to embedding evaluation requirements into funding processes, these states are setting a model for success. Learn more through case studies and innovative approaches featured in the guide.

By implementing evidence-based grantmaking, state governments can ensure taxpayer dollars are spent effectively, improving outcomes and economic mobility for all residents.