Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Illinois Policy Institute be abbreviated as “IPI”?

No. Please use “Illinois Policy Institute” or “the Institute” rather than the three-letter acronym, which is used by another organization.

Can your research be trusted?

Yes! The Illinois Policy Institute offers a “Guarantee of Quality Scholarship,” which reiterates our commitment to delivering the highest quality and most reliable research on matters of public policy.

The Institute guarantees that all original factual data (including studies, viewpoints, reports, brochures, and videos) are true and correct and that information attributed to other sources is accurately represented.

The Institute encourages rigorous critique of its research. If the accuracy of any material fact or reference to an independent source is questioned and brought to the Institute’s attention in writing with supporting evidence, the Institute will respond. If an error exists, it will be corrected in subsequent distributions. This constitutes the complete and final remedy under this guarantee.

Does the Institute accept commissioned research assignments?

No. We do not subscribe to “pay-for-play.” All initiatives are chosen independently and must fit into the Institute’s overall mission.

Where does the Institute publish its work?

Our work is published on Illinois Policy’s website, IllinoisPolicy.org. Much of our work also is promoted via social media on TwitterFacebook and YouTube, and is frequently the topic of local newspaper, radio or TV news.

Read, listen and watch some of our recent media features to better understand how our message is spread to audiences within Illinois, across the nation and even internationally.

How many staff does the Institute have? Where are your offices?

The Institute has more than forty hard-working staffers based out of offices in Chicago and in the state’s capital, Springfield. We host events around the state on a regular basis.

Our Senior Fellows, Academic Advisory Board and interns also help promote the Institute’s mission.

Who funds the Institute?

The Institute is funded by the voluntary contributions of thousands of committed supporters from across the state who share our belief in free markets, free people and a more prosperous Illinois. We do not accept government grants of any kind or union funding.

We welcome support from a broad range of individuals, businesses and charitable foundations that share our values and are willing to support our work for a better, brighter Illinois. All donations are tax deductible.

Because the Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization, our supporters’ names are kept private, although donors are free to share their reasons for supporting our efforts.

Does the Institute endorse candidates?

No. The Institute does not endorse candidates or donate to political parties. We’re thrilled, however, when they adopt our policy positions and advance good ideas that will lead to a better Illinois.

Do you lobby government?

The Illinois Policy Institute is a research and education organization and does not lobby.

Illinois Policy engages in direct and grassroots advocacy to improve the laws and regulations that affect Illinois taxpayers.

Does the Institute engage in “social” issues?

No, the Institute focuses on economic liberty and free market principles.

Are you an independent organization?

Yes. The Institute is an independent organization where principles always come first. Like most non-profits, our work is answerable to a Board of Directors entrusted with advancing our mission.

What is the Institute’s political affiliation?

The Illinois Policy Institute is independent and not affiliated with any political party. People often ask whether the Institute is conservative, libertarian, or whether it falls under some other political label. Labels can sometimes provide helpful shorthand to make it easier for strangers to become better acquainted, but they also can be inaccurate or miss the bigger picture.

The Illinois Policy Institute is dedicated to promoting the principles of liberty in all levels of government. While “liberty” can be interpreted in many ways and applied to many different arenas, we focus specifically on economic liberty and free market principles.

We work with anyone who supports our values on a particular issue, regardless of political or ideological affinity, including Democrats, Republicans and independents.

 

Is the Institute part of the government?

No. The Institute is an independent organization that does not accept government funding of any kind.

How long has the Institute been active?

The Institute was founded in 2002. Five years later, building on the foundation already in place, CEO John Tillman launched an expansive plan to build a robust, pro-growth and pro-market movement in Illinois.

The Institute has since become a noted champion of common-sense solutions that appeal to a broad spectrum of Illinoisans.

What does the Illinois Policy Institute do?

We define the challenges facing Illinois residents, study how public policy reforms can help and then craft positive, innovative solutions based on free enterprise principles.

Our primary issue focus areas include:

  • budget and tax
  • education
  • good government
  • health care
  • labor
  • jobs and growth

Have a question?

Drop a question or comment below and we will get back to you.