Conducting Research

We conduct original research to understand why and where inequities exist.

Activating Solutions

We activate evidence-based solutions with practitioners and policymakers.

Developing Leaders

We develop current and emerging policy leaders with impactful opportunities.

Letter from the Director

Welcome,

As the founding director of the Social Policy Institute at Washington University in St. Louis (SPI) it is my pleasure to lead the institute’s vision of creating equitable social and economic opportunities for people around the world. SPI was founded as a hub to connect researchers with those in business, nonprofits, and government agencies who seek innovative strategies to improve equity and identify bold solutions to complex social problems. Prosperity should be accessible to all. We believe that through inclusive research and meaningful partnerships we can activate policy and practice solutions to break the cycle of inequality. As SPI grows, our goal is to foster evidence-based solutions grounded in the community to improve the lives of the generations to come.

I look forward to partnering with you!
Michal Grinstein-Weiss

Informing Solutions

Financial Security

Supporting the prosperity and security of individuals and families

Education

Increasing opportunities for achievement and advancement

Housing

Elevating equitable neighborhood and housing strategies

Health

Improving health outcomes, behaviors and access to wellness

Featured: Behavioral challenges among isolated children in Israel

Research from the Social Policy Institute in Israel found that increased isolation due to COVID-19 exposure in schools are associated with anger, violence, difficulties sleeping, and prolonged screen time in children. This research informed a new policy from Israel’s parliament (Knesset) to reduce isolation time for children upon a negative test.

Discover Our Impact

Social Policy Institute to study impact of short-term credentials on advancing equity and meeting local labor market demands

Contact: Jason Jabbari, Associate Director of Community Partnerships, Social Policy Institutejabbari.jason@wustl.edu. ST. LOUIS, Missouri (August 28, 2023) – The Social Policy Institute (SPI) at Washington University in St. Louis has received a two-year, $475,000 grant from the Lumina Foundation. These funds will support a research project aiming to understand the impact of short-term credentials on […]