Think tanks are organizations that shape public policy and discussion through focused research and advocacy. They are platforms for introducing new ideas on social, economic, or political issues. Establishing a think tank is an achievable venture that requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and a clear vision for the change you intend to create.
Define Your Mission and Niche
Before any operational planning, the first step is to define a clear purpose. A successful think tank addresses a specific problem or gap in the current policy landscape. This requires analyzing the existing think tank environment to identify which issues are oversaturated and where a new voice could have the most impact.
Once you identify a focus area, the next step is crafting a mission statement. This statement is a guiding document that articulates the think tank’s purpose, values, and long-term objectives. A well-defined mission helps in making strategic decisions, attracting supporters, and ensuring all organizational activities remain aligned with the primary goal.
Choosing a niche allows the organization to build deep expertise and establish itself as an authority. Starting with a few specific issues, rather than all aspects of public policy, helps concentrate resources and develop a strong reputation. This focus allows the organization to produce work that can meaningfully contribute to policy debates.
Establish the Legal and Financial Foundation
With a clear mission, the next stage is building the organization’s formal structure. This begins with selecting a legal framework. For most think tanks, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit status is advantageous as it allows the organization to accept tax-deductible donations from foundations and individuals. Other options exist, such as a 501(c)(4) for lobbying or a for-profit LLC, but the choice depends on your country’s legal and tax environment.
Regardless of the legal structure, a business plan is a requirement. This document should outline the organization’s goals, operational strategies, timelines, and financial projections. It serves as a roadmap for the initial years and is a document for securing funding.
A sustainable funding strategy is necessary. Initial “seed funding” from founders, donors, or grants is often needed to cover start-up costs. Long-term financial health depends on diversifying revenue streams, which can include foundation grants, individual donations, and earned-income opportunities. A mix of project-specific and unrestricted funds allows for flexibility.
Assemble Your Team
Assembling the right team is a foundational step, beginning with establishing a Board of Directors to provide governance, oversight, and strategic direction. Board members should be chosen for their subject area expertise, networks, and knowledge of management, communications, and fundraising. Select individuals who are dedicated to the mission and can commit the time to support the organization’s growth.
Hiring staff for day-to-day operations is the next step. One of the first hires is an Executive Director to lead the organization. This person should be a subject matter expert and a skilled communicator, networker, and manager responsible for executing the business plan and serving as a public face for the organization.
The think tank’s intellectual output comes from its researchers and fellows who conduct analysis and produce reports that build the organization’s reputation. Initially, a think tank might rely on part-time senior research associates to draw on expertise without incurring high fixed costs. A communications manager should also be an early hire to ensure the research reaches its intended audience.
Conduct and Publish Research
The primary function of a think tank is producing and disseminating research. This begins with developing a research agenda aligned with the organization’s mission and focused on relevant policy questions. The goal is to produce work that is relevant to policymakers and the public, maintaining objectivity and using sound methodologies to build credibility.
The output of this research can take many forms, tailored to different audiences and objectives.
- In-depth white papers and detailed reports provide analysis for a specialized audience.
- Policy briefs offer shorter summaries for policymakers and their staff.
- Op-eds and blog posts are tools for engaging in public debate and reaching a broader audience.
- Data analysis and visualizations can make complex information more understandable.
Sharing ideas early, even before they are fully formed, can be an effective strategy. Circulating drafts of working papers or holding informal seminars allows for feedback from other experts to refine arguments. This collaborative approach improves the final product and helps build relationships with stakeholders, transforming research into a dynamic conversation.
Amplify Your Influence and Outreach
An outreach strategy transforms research into a tool for tangible change. This involves proactively building relationships with policymakers, their staff, and civil servants who work on the think tank’s issues. Consistent engagement ensures they are aware of your work when policy decisions are being made.
Engaging with the media is another key avenue for amplifying influence. This includes sending press releases, offering experts for interviews, and writing op-eds for publications. Media engagement helps generate awareness among a wide audience, and building a reputation as a reliable source for journalists can lead to sustained coverage.
Hosting events injects ideas into the public discourse. Panels, conferences, and policy briefings bring together experts, policymakers, and the public to discuss issues. These events can generate media attention and provide a platform for releasing new research. Forming coalitions with other organizations can also amplify a message and demonstrate broader support for your policy recommendations.