[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that Minnesota has again been certified platinum – the highest possible recognition – for evidence-based decision making. The certification was awarded by Results for America, a non-profit dedicated to advancing the use of data to drive governmental policies, programs, and budgets.

Minnesota is one of only three states to be certified platinum in 2025 and is the only state to win the highest honor available all eight years since Results for America created a state standard.

“Minnesota invests in what works. And for eight years in a row, we have ranked as a national leader in evidence-based decision making,” said Governor Walz. “We’re using data to reduce child poverty, lower crime rates, and increase graduation rates. We can target our investments to the things that matter most — like school meals, paid leave, and tax cuts for the middle class — to improve outcomes and make Minnesota the best state to live and raise a family.” 

Results for America co-founder and CEO Michele Jolin said, “Every year we are seeing more and more states – red and blue alike – embrace the power of data and evidence to deliver meaningful, measurable results in their communities. Our annual certification process is a chance to celebrate and amplify the vital, impactful work that leading states like Minnesota are doing each day.” 

Minnesota Management and Budget’s Results Management team works across state agencies to help leaders use data and evidence to make strategic, informed decisions.

For more information about the state certification program, visit the Results for America website: https://results4america.org.