Where policy meets practice — in the places that need it most.
When it comes to solving today's most pressing public challenges, place matters. Yet too often, the systems and policies meant to drive innovation are not designed for, or with, the communities that need it most. Second Mountain Strategies works with government agencies and foundations to close that gap: translating policy and philanthropic investment into strategies, structures, and implementation plans that build economic resilience for the people and places left behind.
Insights
“Workforce Pell can open doors and close skill gaps, but only if it’s built to work where needs are greatest. Without careful design, these federal grants could sever the very training pipelines they are meant to strengthen.”
— Katherine Ash in Work Shift, August 2025
Our Approach
We help partners navigate four essential areas of inquiry:
Navigating an evolving landscape
by understanding what emerging policy and funding changes mean for your work
Aligning fragmented systems
by bringing diverse stakeholders toward shared goals and coordinated action
Building what's next by designing programs, partnerships, or governance structures to meet emerging needs.
Moving from investment to results
by turning policy commitments and public funding into accountable implementation
