About SPRING
The world's largest student-led think tank
Born from a simple question
In December 2022, a group of high school debaters noticed something troubling: the research skills they honed in competitive debate had no outlet beyond the tournament circuit. Meanwhile, real policy conversations were happening without any youth voice at the table. SPRING was founded to bridge that gap — giving young people the infrastructure, mentorship, and platform to produce research that actually reaches decision-makers.
What started as a small collective has grown into the world's largest student-led think tank: 649 fellows across 28 states and DC, representing 17 countries. Our work has been cited by the UK Parliament and the United Nations, our fellows have testified before the US Senate, and our publications have reached over 150,000 readers — totaling more than 100,000 words of original policy research.
What We Do
Research
Our fellows produce original policy research across technology, education, foreign affairs, and public health. Publications are peer-reviewed internally and have been cited by legislative bodies in the US and UK. Over 100,000 words published to date.
Advocacy
SPRING fellows have testified before the US Senate, contributed to the reversal of Florida's AP Psychology restrictions, informed juvenile justice reform in Dallas County, and served on corporate advisory councils including Snap Inc.
Development
Through structured fellowship programs, mentorship, and training, we build the next generation of policy leaders. Our fellows come from high schools and universities across 17 countries, gaining real-world experience in research methodology, writing, and advocacy.
Policy Impact
United Nations HLAB-AI Citation
Research cited by the UN High-Level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence in their flagship report on governing AI for humanity.
UK Parliament Citation
SPRING research cited in official UK House of Commons proceedings, informing policy debate on youth engagement in democratic processes.
US Senate Testimony
SPRING fellows provided testimony before US Senate committees on technology policy and youth perspectives in governance.
Florida AP Psychology Reversal
SPRING advocacy contributed to the reversal of Florida's decision to restrict AP Psychology coursework, restoring access for thousands of students.
Dallas Juvenile Detention Reform
Policy recommendations from SPRING research informed reforms to juvenile detention practices in Dallas County, Texas.
Snap Inc. Youth Advisory Council
SPRING fellows selected to serve on Snap Inc.'s Youth Advisory Council, shaping platform safety and digital wellbeing policies.
The Diplomat Publication
SPRING research published in The Diplomat, reaching an international audience of policymakers and foreign affairs professionals.
Where We Are
International Presence
Join the movement
Whether you're a student researcher, a policy enthusiast, or an organization looking to collaborate, there's a place for you at SPRING.
Get Involved