About Better Governance Institute

Better Governance Institute (BGI) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit research and education organization dedicated to improving the quality, integrity, and effectiveness of public governance. Recognized as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, BGI conducts independent research and develops standards, frameworks, and educational resources focused on transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity in public life. Our work is guided by evidence, ethical standards, and a commitment to serving the public interest.

Research & Analysis

BGI conducts independent research on governance systems and public policy design, examining how laws and institutions function in practice and identifying approaches that improve transparency, accountability, and performance.

Standards & Frameworks

BGI develops evidence-informed standards and frameworks—such as the Independent & Corruption-Free Certification (ICFC)—to clarify expectations for ethical public leadership and institutional integrity. These standards are educational in nature and support informed public evaluation.

Public Education

BGI produces reports, briefs, and educational resources that expand public understanding of governance challenges and solutions, contributing to informed public discourse and institutional learning.

Institutional Independence

BGI operates independently from political parties, campaigns, and electoral activity. In accordance with federal law, BGI does not participate in or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of—or in opposition to—any candidate for public office.

Long-Term Focus

BGI is committed to long-term research and institutional development aimed at strengthening governance systems over time. Its work emphasizes durable improvements in transparency, accountability, and public trust, rather than short-term political outcomes.

About Better Governance Institute

The Better Governance Institute (BGI) is a non-profit think tank dedicated to improving the quality of governance in the United States. Through research, innovation, and education, BGI focuses on three core pillars: transparency, accountability, and empowered citizen participation. BGI’s mission is to develop actionable solutions that enhance government openness and responsiveness, while fostering more meaningful involvement from citizens.

Research and Innovation for Transparent and Accountable Government

BGI’s first initiative is a comprehensive research project focused on understanding and advancing best practices in government transparency and accountability. This research will analyze existing policies, technologies, and standards that promote openness in government operations at the municipal, state, and federal levels. By identifying successful models from domestic, international and historic contexts, BGI will provide actionable policy recommendations for improving transparency and accountability in governance.

Empowering Citizens Through Participation

At BGI, we believe in the power of informed and engaged citizens to influence government. Our work includes developing new strategies for increasing citizen participation beyond traditional voting, exploring models like participatory budgeting and citizen assemblies. These efforts aim to give citizens a more active role in decision-making processes and hold government officials accountable through innovative civic technologies, policies and practices.

Training Pro-Governance Candidates

Recognizing the need for leadership that transcends partisan divides, BGI offers candidate training and support for individuals running on platforms of governance reform. By focusing on independent candidates, BGI seeks to empower leaders who prioritize good governance over political tribalism, helping them build campaigns rooted in transparency, accountability, and public service.

Researching the Independent Political Space

BGI is also committed to understanding the growing independent political sector in the U.S. Through ongoing research, we aim to better understand the motivations, demographics, and political behaviors of independent voters. This research will inform the development of strategies to engage and mobilize independents around governance reform.

A Decade of Progress and Partnership

BGI is embarking on a decade-long journey to activate these initiatives. As we raise funds and build capacity, we will continue to publish reports, recommend policy solutions, and forge partnerships with other organizations committed to improving governance. Our initial meta-analysis will map out the landscape of think tanks and organizations working on similar issues, ensuring that we collaborate and build on existing knowledge and innovations.

Better Governance Institute is a nonpartisan, nonprofit research and education organization recognized as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. BGI does not endorse candidates, contribute to political campaigns, or engage in electoral coordination.

All research and educational work is conducted independently and is guided by evidence, transparency, and ethical standards. In accordance with federal law, BGI does not participate in or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of—or in opposition to—any candidate for public office. BGI exists to strengthen governance systems and public accountability, not to advance partisan or electoral agendas.