Bureau of Governmental Research

The Bureau of Governmental Research (BGR) is an independent, nonprofit public policy research organization. We exist to help New Orleanians make sense of how local government works and how it could work better.

Right now, residents are especially frustrated by recurring problems and tough financial choices. BGR provides research that cuts through noise to explain how public dollars are raised and spent, how major systems are managed, and where decisions fall short, so that the public can engage with the facts.

Our work focuses on issues that shape daily life and the region’s future, from infrastructure and public finances to governance and accountability. When solutions exist, we lay them out clearly. When the tradeoffs are hard, we are honest about that too. The result is better decisions that hold up over time.

BGR is a member-supported nonprofit and does not accept government funding. That independence allows us to follow the evidence wherever it leads and to speak plainly about what we find, even when it's uncomfortable.

GiveNOLA Day support helps ensure that greater New Orleans has a trusted source of clarity when big decisions are being made and the stakes are high. If you care about a city that works better for the people who live here, your support makes that possible.

Testimonials

"BGR is one of the most important organizations in New Orleans, bringing clear, independent analysis to issues that really matter for the city. Their work consistently leads to a more informed public and a better decision-making process by our political leaders."

"We can never have enough good government. BGR is really important. It's the source of truth and gold-plated research. You can trust it."

"BGR is nonpartisan and takes a deep look at critically important issues in our community."

"BGR explains better than anyone else how local government works (or doesn't work)."

"BGR provides professional reports and data I trust, enabling me to be a more informed citizen."