Salem, OR. Oregon has been recognized as one of the nation’s top performers in evidence‑based governance, earning a Gold Certification in the 2026 Invest in What Works State Standard of Excellence. Results for America announced the recognition as part of its annual national benchmark highlighting how states use data and evidence to improve outcomes for residents.

This year marks a major achievement for Oregon: the state advanced from Honorable Mention to Gold, reflecting substantial improvements in how agencies design, monitor, and evaluate public investments. According to Results for America, Oregon strengthened its budget and grant‑making systems by setting measurable goals, directing more funding to evidence‑based programs, and actively tracking whether public investments are delivering results. These improvements were key factors in Oregon’s advancement to Gold.

Oregon’s recognition is also rooted in its long-standing investments in statewide data governance and performance management. The Results for America Oregon profile highlights Oregon’s performance management leadership, with promising examples from data leadership, investing what works through grants, contacts, direct services and budgeting, as well as community participation and data policy and practices.

Achieving Gold places Oregon among the nation’s leading states in data-driven, transparent, and accountable government. This designation highlights Oregon’s commitment to strengthening the connection between public investments and outcomes, ensuring state spending is strategic, measurable, and aligned with what works.