What is the structure of The States Project? 

There are several layers to our work. 

1. The umbrella groups are Future Now and PAC for America’s Future, which provide detailed and on-going research to determine where investments in specific districts within specific states can make a big difference. 

2. The States Project focuses on winning or defending governing majorities in specific states by making strategic state legislative campaigns more effective and better funded. It works towards creating, expanding, and providing support to all its (now over 300) giving circles.

3. Giving Circles - We rely on our friends, family, and colleagues to expand our reach and to pool contributions for the common purpose of supporting candidates in state legislatures who share our democratic values. Each giving circle determines, usually in late summer or early fall, to which of the targeted states its collective donations should be directed. 

4. Grapevine is the platform for processing on-line contributions.

Do all of our contributions to the giving circle go to the candidates and their campaigns? 

Yes! For example, in the 2022 elections, The States Project invested approximately $60 million in state legislative races in 12 states. Each state has limits on how much each candidate can receive. In North Carolina, each of our candidates received up to the maximum of $5600. 

Are donations tax deductible? 

No. Donations to political candidates are not tax deductible.  

Where does the money go?  

With our on-the-ground partners (for example, the Democratic Caucus) and candidates, The States Project strategically determines what is most effective. Monies go toward door knocking, researching impactful and supporting TV ads, digital ads, mailings, technology, hiring and training staff, etc. 

What does a typical campaign cost?  

The cost a typical state legislative campaign is $100,000. This is in contrast to a national campaign for the US House costing an average of $1m and the US Senate costing $7m.  

Who funds The States Project, Future Now and PAC for America’s Future?   

The administration of The States Project, Future Now and PAC for America’s Future are all funded by donations that are independent of all contributions to the giving circles.  

Has The States Project received any recognition?   

The States Project has received accolades in the press, from The New York Times, HuffPost, and others such as Robert Hubbell, for its effectiveness. TSP Press Page 

How can I find out more?