Pioneer Institute is an independent, non-partisan, privately funded research organization that seeks to improve the quality of life in Massachusetts through civic discourse and intellectually rigorous, data-driven public policy solutions based on free market principles, individual liberty and responsibility, and the ideal of effective, limited and accountable government.
By producing research almost exclusively through outside experts, Pioneer ensures credibility, remaining focused on what they do best — developing a strategic research and programs agenda for issues they believe in. They are a resource for legislators on Beacon Hill and for staff in the State’s executive offices, and they attract more press than any other research institute in Massachusetts.
They do not accept government grants, are not attached to a university, and do not do contract research. They are supported in their efforts by individuals and foundations who believe in their mission and in their ability to fulfill it.
Pioneer Research Centers
The Center for School Reform seeks more school choice for parents and an accountable system of high-quality public education for all students. The Center’s work builds on Pioneer’s legacy as a leader in the charter public school movement and champion of greater academic rigor in Massachusetts’ schools. Current initiatives promote choice and competition, globally competitive academic standards, and digital learning opportunities.
The Center for Better Government seeks limited, accountable government by promoting competitive delivery of public services, elimination of unnecessary regulation, and a focus on core government functions. Current initiatives promote reform of public employee pension and health care liabilities, transportation reform and government transparency.
The Center for Economic Opportunity seeks to keep Massachusetts competitive by promoting a healthy business climate, transparent regulation and small business creation in urban areas. Current initiatives promote market reforms to reduce the cost of doing business.
Pioneer’s Center for Healthcare Solutions is focused on state-based health care policy reform, affordable, high quality care, and and medicaid reform.
The Middle Cities Initiative helps the Commonwealth’s older cities facing economic, demographic, and political challenges. The Initiative develops and disseminates concrete policy reforms for local and state officials in four core service areas: Financial management, Education, Economic Development and Public Safety.