Archive profile summary
National network serving state-focused free-market think tanks, originating as the Madison Group in 1986 and becoming an independent organization in 1992.
Why this entry is in the archive
Shows how national ideas can be networked and replicated through state policy institutions.
Why state networks matter
National policy organizations are only one layer of political capacity. State-focused think tanks can adapt ideas to local law, budgets and legislatures and maintain relationships with state officials.
SPN role
SPN serves a network of state-based organizations and provides services, convening, training and grant opportunities.
Funding relationships
Its partnership with the Bradley Foundation on Bradley Freedom Grants is a documented example of philanthropic capital flowing into state-policy infrastructure through a network organization.
Evidence limits
Network membership does not mean SPN controls member organizations.
Similar model policies or ideological positions require source-specific evidence before attributing authorship or coordination.
Timeline
- State network begins
The Madison Group, precursor to State Policy Network, begins as an informal confederation of state think tanks and supporters.
- State Policy Network formalizes
SPN becomes an independent organization serving state-focused market-oriented think tanks.
- Philanthropy and state infrastructure
The Bradley Foundation partners with State Policy Network on Bradley Freedom Grants aimed at strengthening state-based policy infrastructure.
Relationship records
Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation → State Policy Network
Partnered on Bradley Freedom Grants for state policy infrastructure · 2019–2020
Evidence status: documented
DonorsTrust → State Policy Network
Documented grantmaker · 2021
Evidence status: documented