2026 Invest in What Works
State Standard of Excellence

A national benchmark – a “north star” – for how state governments invest in what works.

About the 2026 Invest in What Works State Standard of Excellence

The 2026 Invest in What Works State Standard of Excellence demonstrates that states are increasingly using data and evidence to produce better, more equitable results for their residents.

Read More Press Release Analysis Methodology

15 States Recognized in 2026

California
Colorado
Maryland
Minnesota

New Mexico
Ohio
Rhode Island
Tennessee

North Carolina
Oregon

Connecticut
Michigan
New Jersey
Pennsylvania
Utah

15

States Certified in 2026

6

states leveled up from last year

44

U.S. States Represented in 2026

Featured Examples by State

Hover or click on a state to learn more about where it excels in State Standard of Excellence criteria.

  • Platinum Certified
  • Gold Certified
  • Silver Certified

2026 Criteria

The 2026 Invest in What Works State Standard of Excellence includes 12 criteria that are organized by thematic areas: Building Evidence, Using Learning, and Delivering Results. Read more about the Criteria breakdown here.

1. Evaluation Leadership

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Leading Example

Tennessee

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2. Data Leadership

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Leading Example

Ohio

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3. Investment in Capacity to Learn What Works

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Leading Example

Colorado

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4. Evaluation Policy and Learning

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Leading Example

North Carolina

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5. Data Policy and Practices

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Leading Example

California

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6. Investing in What Works through Grants and Contracts

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Leading Example

Rhode Island

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7. Investing in What Works through Direct Services

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Leading Example

Minnesota

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8. Investing in What Works through Budgeting

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Leading Example

New Mexico

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9. Performance Management

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Leading Example

Oregon

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10. Results-Driven Contracting

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Leading Example

Maryland

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11. Community Participation

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Leading Example

Utah

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12. Identifying Key Outcomes and Tracking Progress

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Leading Example

Pennsylvania

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It’s an honor for Minnesota to be recognized as a national leader in evidence-based decision making. By using data to inform our decisions we ensure we are investing state dollars in services that work for Minnesotans.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz

We are honored to be recognized by Results for America as a Platinum-Certified State in the 2026 Invest in What Works State Standard of Excellence. This distinction reflects our steadfast commitment to using evidence and data to guide decisions, steward resources responsibly, and deliver the best outcomes for Tennesseans.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee

We take very seriously our responsibility to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars. I am proud that our work to measure outcomes, learn from the evidence, and invest in what works has earned this recognition, but I’m even prouder of how it will improve North Carolinians’ lives. My administration will continue our daily efforts to build a stronger and more prosperous North Carolina with opportunity for every person.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein

The Moore-Miller administration brings a data-driven and heart-led approach to everything we do. We are proud to be recognized by Results for America once again for our strategic investments that deliver real results for Marylanders. We remain committed to responsibly stewarding taxpayer dollars and driving proven outcomes for hardworking families across Maryland.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore

Ohio is the Heart of it All, and success is no accident here. We have worked to incorporate new ideas, data, and transparency, and then evaluate their effectiveness to get the best results for our citizens. I am proud that Ohio is being recognized as a top, Platinum-certified state by Results for America, on the heels of also being recognized as the top state for business and as the best state park system in the country. We’re shining a light on our achievements while maintaining our momentum so Ohio will continue to be the best state to live, work, and play.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine

Utah government should work the same way Utahns do: set clear goals, measure results and be willing to change course when something isn’t working. We owe taxpayers that accountability, and we owe Utah families programs that make a real difference in their lives. This recognition reflects the dedicated public servants across our state who continue to raise the bar.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox

Results for America’s analysis is based on data provided from an annual survey of state government officials, supplemented by secondary research. Results for America thanks all the state government leaders who contributed to the 2026 Invest in What Works State Standard of Excellence.