About AIR: Mission Focused, Evidence Driven
We Never Stop Digging To Find What Works
The American Institutes for Research® (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to solve some of the most urgent challenges in the U.S. and around the world. We do this work because when we look to the future, we see opportunities to close gaps that are rooted in injustice. At AIR, we know that equity begins with systems that work for everyone, so we lead with expertise, follow the evidence, and never stop drawing new connections to build a better, more equitable world.
Our Mission
AIR's mission is to generate and use rigorous evidence that contributes to a better, more equitable world.
Our mission is more than just a statement—it is the foundation of our organization. It inspires our people, informs our work, and drives how we partner with others to improve lives.
Our Vision, Culture, & Values
At AIR, we are collaborative, inquisitive, and visionary – we support one another, and work nimbly and collaboratively to make a greater impact. We believe that intellectual diversity and respect for the contributions of each individual is central to our success.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Our commitment to diversity goes beyond compliance. It is integrated into our strategy, operations, and work environment. It is reflected in our efforts to recruit, develop, and engage the diverse staff we need to achieve mission and serve our clients and communities.
AIR Equity Initiative
In addition to serving our mission through client-driven work, AIR invests its own talent and resources to tackle seemingly intractable, long-standing problems that prevent too many people from having access to good health care, education, and pathways to employment.
Our Leadership
“For 75 years, AIR has been using evidence to improve people's lives and create a better, more equitable world.”
- David Myers, President and CEO
Our Clients
AIR works with government agencies, organizations, institutions, and communities across the U.S. and around the world to develop and use evidence to improve outcomes. Our clients include:
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
George Kaiser Family Foundation
Illinois State Board of Education
Millennium Challenge Corporation
National Science Foundation
Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
State of California
Texas Education Agency
U.S. Agency for International Development
U.S. Department of Agriculture
U.S. Department of Education
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
U.S. Department of Justice
U.S. Department of Labor
United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund
Our History
Founded in 1946 as a not-for-profit organization, we conduct our work with strict independence, objectivity, and non-partisanship.
Partner With Us
Our mission driven staff are ready to help you address any challenge.
