About Us
ThinkTennessee is a nonpartisan, results-oriented think tank that uses research, engagement, and advocacy to build a state where all Tennesseans are civically engaged and economically secure. Working in partnership with state and local leaders, we advance data-driven, evidence-based policies that strengthen the voice of voters, better support working families, and move Tennessee forward.
Our Story
In 2017, civic and business leaders from across Tennessee came together to build a nonpartisan, nonprofit think tank tasked with promoting evidence-based ideas that move our state forward.
Led by a diverse board of directors and a staff with deep expertise in policy and communications, we blend top-notch research and analysis with a drive to inform policymakers, media, nonprofit partners and citizens about policies that have the power to improve Tennesseans’ lives.
What We Do
Research
We produce data-driven research in the form of policy briefs, reports, data dashboards, and case studies.
Engage
We host gatherings to bring together elected leaders, nonprofit and community leaders, and policy experts for nonpartisan discussions on the most important policy issues in the state to build trust and move ideas forward.
Advocate
We work together with leaders at the state and local level and in coalition with partners to move evidence-based policies from idea to reality.
Our Vision & Priorities
ThinkTennessee’s work is focused in two policy areas:
Supporting Working Families
We envision a state where all Tennesseans can increase their economic security by earning enough to support themselves and their families, afford typical household expenses, and build their savings rather than fall into debt.
- High-Quality Jobs
- High-Quality, Safe Housing that is Attainable
- Affordable, Multimodal Transportation Options
- High-Quality Child Care that is Affordable
- Reliable and Clean Utilities that are Low-Cost
- Fair and Effective Criminal Justice System
- Reduced Harms from Court Debt
Strengthening Democracy
We envision a state where all Tennesseans are civically engaged and trust in a transparent and effective state and local government.
- Secure and Modern Election System
- Expanded Access to the Ballot
- Judicial System with Integrity
- Transparent Redistricting Process
- Accountability in State and Local Government
Our Values
Equity
We believe that our state’s Volunteer Spirit means we look out for each other and root for our neighbor’s success. We work toward a Tennessee where everyone has access to opportunity, economic mobility, civic participation, and happiness.
Integrity
We believe in data-driven, evidence-based policy recommendations. We work to provide nonpartisan, independent research, and expertise to our community and partners.
Courage
We believe courage is not only advocating for what you believe is right, but also having the patience and commitment to work with people from across the political landscape to identify common ground and develop innovative policy solutions to benefit all Tennesseans.
Pragmatism
We believe in creating shared prosperity by building consensus around public policy. We work strategically to achieve practical policy change and are oriented towards tangible results.
Optimism
We believe Tennesseans’ best days are ahead of us. Our policy recommendations work to move future generations toward a better tomorrow.
