We believe that the most effective funding solutions emerge when communities actively participate in developing those solutions. Consequently, our approach to cost analysis and modeling centers community voices and collaboration. In addition to training and coaching community and state partners, we offer various cost analyses and cost modeling services designed to provide local leaders with tools that deliver immediate cost insights and strategic recommendations:

1. Cost modeling: Our cost models offer an in-depth look at the true cost of equitably implementing, maintaining, or expanding a program or service for kids. They examine costs related to program requirements, staffing needs, employee wages and benefits, facility rent and utilities, number of expected participants, supplies, and other factors that influence costs to estimate how much money a state or community will need.
2. Cost estimations: These analyses provide an approximate cost figure based on available data to define a momentary funding need to achieve a goal. Cost estimations can provide a general dollar amount to initiate a child and youth investment campaign plan, specify a starting point for an approved local ballot measure about how to allocate funds, or help price the multiple elements of a strategic plan for children and youth. (For an example of how a cost estimation  supported a local funding win at the ballot, read our case study about Travis County, TX.) 
3. Funding formula development: We create equitable, transparent mechanisms for distributing resources across programs, providers, and/or jurisdictions. Our funding formulas incorporate factors such as population needs, service costs, and existing resources to help local leaders allocate available funding fairly and in a manner that aligns with the community’s policy goals.
4. Scalability analysis: This analysis assesses how costs change as programs grow, replicate, improve, and evolve. Scalability analyses identify the required infrastructure investments and optimal growth pathways to expand essential programs for children and youth strategically.
5. Turning cost insights into action: We help our community and state partners translate complex cost analyses and cost models into powerful tools for advocacy, funding, and expanding services for children and youth. Our approach equips local and state leaders and advocates with the skills and tools to turn their cost insights into strategies that drive real investments in programs and services for children and youth.

Explore the resources on this page to learn more about the role cost models and cost analyses serve in strategic public financing.