CivicSpace

A project of New America Chicago

CivicSpace is a nonprofit public policy lab that brings everyday Americans—across political beliefs, racial backgrounds, and life experiences—into the heart of democratic problem-solving. We use human-centered design and real-world testing to craft policies that reflect the realities of hardworking people often left out of traditional decision-making.

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Through our work, community members have made it clear: economic stability is at the heart of the American Dream. We focus on improving the cost of living and expanding opportunities for wealth building through topics such as affordable housing, income supports, benefits, and access to good jobs. We engage and unite residents, local leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders to co-create practical solutions grounded in lived experience. These insights drive our policy work and media partnerships, bridging divides with shared priorities.

We believe good policy isn’t about left or right—it’s about what works. CivicSpace turns good intentions into real impact, making government more responsive, accessible, and effective for all.