The Institute for State Policy Leaders (the Institute) is a 501(c)(3) organization that assists state policymakers in making informed policy decisions by conducting nonpartisan educational programming. The programming is geared toward state elected leaders and focuses on complex emerging and current issues that are national in scope, but that impact states or are subject to state legislative, executive, and regulatory action — especially in light of federal stagnation.

The Institute hosts several two-to-three-day programs on selected topics throughout the year. Decisions regarding educational topics are made by the Institute’s Board of Directors (Board), in coordination with the Institute’s executive staff. Each program provides policymakers with a balanced deep dive on a policy topic, allowing them the opportunities to discuss their concerns and questions with the leading experts and peers in other states. These programs provide a thorough and thoughtful understanding of a policy area so state leaders are able to achieve desired policy outcomes and minimize unintended consequences. Additionally, the Institute serves as a forum for state leaders to gather, discuss, and deliberate on policy issues where interstate cooperation, whether through model legislation or guiding principles, would benefit states and their citizens. 

The Institute receives contributions to meet the full range of expenses and obligations of the organization.  The organization's financial decisions are made by the Board, in coordination with the Institute’s executive staff.

The Institute has full decision-making authority and reserves the sole right to provide stipends to state policy leaders which will cover the leader’s costs to attend these policy programs and forums at no expense to state taxpayers. State policy leaders are independently required to comply with all ethics and disclosure laws of their state in order to accept a stipend.