Intersectional Policy Institute

Turning Community Knowledge into Better Public Policy

About Us

The Intersectional Policy Institute bridges grassroots movements, nonprofit organizations, researchers, philanthropy, and government to design more equitable, practical, and accountable policies.

We believe that the most effective policies are shaped by the people most affected by them. By combining lived experience, research, systems thinking, and cross-sector collaboration, we help institutions develop policies that are not only equitable in principle but effective in practice.

Rather than responding to individual issues in isolation, we examine how systems intersect—ensuring that policy solutions address the root causes of inequality while improving implementation, accountability, and long-term impact.

Our Work is Grounded in Five Guiding Principles:

  • Community-Centered
  • Intersectional by Design
  • Evidence-Informed
  • Collaborative Across Sectors
  • Focused on Long-Term Systems Change

Why We Exist

Many of today’s most pressing challenges, including digital rights, public health, education, democracy, and nonprofit sustainability, cannot be solved by a single organization or policy.

Policies often fail because they are developed without meaningful community participation, overlook intersecting barriers, or lack the infrastructure needed for successful implementation.

The Intersectional Policy Institute exists to close these gaps by connecting communities, institutions, and decision-makers to build more accessible, collaborative, and responsive policies.

Community Listening

We engage directly with community members, practitioners, advocates, and organizations to understand lived experiences and identify systemic challenges.

Research & Systems Analysis

We analyze existing policies, institutions, and research to identify structural barriers, opportunities, and evidence-based solutions.

Policy Design

We develop practical recommendations, implementation strategies, and equity-centered policy frameworks.

Government Engagement

We support public agencies and elected officials through policy advising, stakeholder engagement, testimony, and implementation planning.

Coalition Building

We convene nonprofits, researchers, government agencies, and community leaders to build shared priorities and collective action.

Evaluation & Learning

We evaluate outcomes, document lessons learned, and continuously improve policies through adaptive learning and community feedback.

Inquiry Areas

Whether you are developing new policy, evaluating existing systems, or building cross-sector partnerships, we welcome opportunities to work together.