At the heart of IDEA is a simple belief: when people talk, democracy thrives.
We’re a small, passionate team based at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, committed to making conversations count. We build spaces where voices long ignored are heard—where real dialogue replaces empty rhetoric. Where diverse perspectives come together not to argue, but to understand, connect, and create solutions that work.
What makes us different? We don’t just hope our approach works—we prove it.
Our tools, like Deliberative Town Halls, are grounded in rigorous social science: randomized control trials, in-depth participant surveys, and ongoing feedback from stakeholders. We measure impact, refine methods, and ensure every conversation leads to meaningful change.
But this isn’t just about research—it’s about real people, real issues, and real outcomes. Whether online or in person, we champion equity and inclusion, bringing those pushed to the margins into the center of the conversation—because their voices lead to better decisions, stronger communities, and a democracy that works for everyone.
