An institute of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs

At RISE, our policy solutions translate evidence into action through initiatives that inform public policy, support decision-making, and strengthen public outcomes. Our signature initiatives combine research, data, and applied expertise to address pressing policy challenges and advance evidence-informed practice across communities and institutions. Together, these efforts demonstrate how research can drive meaningful, lasting public impact.

Proposed AI Legislation Across the US States: What’s on Policymakers’ Minds?

Rapid Report | Issue 3 | Report Publish Date: October, 2025

Equity implications of the unchanged Federal minimum wage since 2009

Rapid Report | Issue 2 | Report Publish Date: July, 2025

Equity Challenges and Opportunities in the Revised FAFSA

Rapid Report | Issue 1 | Report Publish Date: July, 2024

Lived Experiences of Black Girls in the City of Richmond, VA

Policy Brief | February, 2026

Strengthening Critical Infrastructure for Equity and Resilience: Findings from the Environmental Justice Data Project

Policy Brief | October, 2025

Enhancing the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem for Black and Hispanic Entrepreneurs

Policy Brief | March, 2024

2023 Create, Grow, Scale Entrepreneurship Convening: Summary Report

Policy Brief | August, 2023

Ensuring Language Access Equity in Virginia Government Services

Policy Brief | April, 2022

COVID Vaccine Hesitancy Report

Policy Brief | January, 2022