Strengthening Evidence: Support for RCTs to Evaluate Social Programs and Policies

About this program

Arnold Ventures is funding rigorous randomized controlled trials to strengthen causal evidence on U.S.-based social programs and policies, with particular interest in replications and long-term follow-up (RCTs focused on criminal justice are handled under a separate RFP). Applicants must submit a required Letter of Interest using AV’s LOI template by September 11, 2026 (invited full proposals due January 15, 2027), and upload a study team overview and a one-page budget summary while complying with AV’s open science and updated indirect cost policies. Proposals should demonstrate clear policy relevance, a well-specified, adequately powered RCT design, and implementation readiness (mature program, partner commitments, and data access); AV generally funds research costs while program delivery is expected to be funded by other parties, with limited exceptions.