[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota was recognized by Results for America as a national leader in using evidence and data to guide decision-making and deliver better results for Minnesotans. Minnesota is one of only two states to receive Platinum Certification, the highest honor possible for evidence-based decision making.

“In Minnesota, we fund what matters most. Whether it’s investments like universal school meals, funding for child care, or tax cuts for the middle class, I am proud that Minnesota has once again been recognized for our commitment to using evidence and data to make the biggest impact in improving peoples’ lives,” said Governor Walz. “By using data and evidence to drive decision making, we get real results.”

“We know government can make a huge difference in people’s lives, providing the support needed to ensure children have access to quality education from a young age, families have access to affordable childcare, adults with mental illness can achieve permanent housing, and so much more,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “Evidence-based decision-making helps ensure we’re investing in programs and services that work to improve lives.”

Minnesota was one of only two states to receive Platinum Certification by Results for America, and one of seven states designated as national leaders in evidence-based decision-making. Highlights of the state’s data-driven work include:

• Over $2.1 billion invested over a three-year period in grants, contracts, and direct services to support children and families. This includes $387 million in Universal School Meals, and $36 million in Voluntary Prekindergarten.
• Including evidence indicators in public budget documents.
• Promoting budgeting towards equitable outcomes.

“More than ever before, state leaders of all political persuasions recognize the impact and importance of leveraging data and evidence in their decision making,” said Results for America co-founder and CEO Michele Jolin. “The certification process seeks to celebrate and expand on the successes that these states have already achieved in their pursuit of evidence-based solutions and the acceleration of economic mobility.”

Led by Minnesota Management and Budget, the state’s Results Management team partners with state agencies to identify public services that have been proven to work. The initiative uses rigorous research, local expertise, and data to give policymakers valuable information when making decisions.

Results for America is a national nonprofit that promotes evidence-based policymaking. Its newly released 2024 Invest in What Works State Standard of Excellence highlights advances in evidence-based grantmaking, budgeting and direct services, and identifies state efforts to build and use evidence and data to achieve better, more equitable results for residents.