J-PAL North America, based at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, catalyzes randomized evaluations, builds partnerships for evidence-informed policymaking, and helps partners scale up effective programs in the North America region.
About us
J-PAL North America leverages our network of academic researchers from universities across the continent and a full-time staff of researchers, policy experts, and administrative professionals to generate and disseminate rigorous evidence about the most effective ways to reduce poverty and promote economic mobility in our region.
Focus areas
Poverty is a complex and pressing challenge. J-PAL North America aims to reduce poverty by ensuring policy is informed by scientific evidence across a wide range of focus areas.
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Funding opportunities
Twice a year, J-PAL North America solicits proposals for pilot projects and randomized evaluations. Researchers in J-PAL North America’s network and their PhD students are eligible to apply. (Interested in joining our research network? Check out this page on Invited Researchers.)
The following requests for proposals (RFP) will open on October 7, 2026:
Partner spotlight: Connecticut Department of Social Services
In 2023, J-PAL North America provided technical assistance and support to the Connecticut Department of Social Services in adopting a test-and-learn approach to improving their social service programs.
“Working with J-PAL North America transformed our early work with Connecticut Medicaid programs. They provided the tools to design rigorous evaluations while upholding person-centered principles. Their responsiveness and ability to communicate complex ideas clearly made them an exceptional partner, helping us strengthen evidence-based decision-making in social service programs.”
- Michael Smith, SCALE Senior Data Scientist, working as embedded staff at the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)
