The Biden Administration has consistently emphasized evidence-building and rigorous impact evaluation in federal funding opportunities. The federal guidance goes well beyond traditional monitoring and compliance reporting. To meet and exceed federal expectations, the Eval and Impact team is accountable for the usage of federal funding. Past federal stimulus (like ARRA) led to frustration that we ‘did not learn anything’ because we did not collect data and evaluate impact. Our unit was formed to ensure we won’t have those blind spots again.
Our newest OPM unit is responding by bringing together resources that will expand data capacity in agencies using SLFRF funds. Initially, this unit will provide technical assistance and thought partnership; eventually we will support the hiring of public sector staff, contractors, academics, consultants, and others involved in evaluation and impact of SLFRF funded programs. As we prioritize and invest in impact evaluation, we will work to coordinate federal and existing state projects to prevent duplication of effort. The unit will provide support evaluation and evidence-building for all SLFRF projects going forward.