The Public Policy Institute of California is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving public policy in California through independent, objective, nonpartisan research on major economic, social and political issues. The institute was established in 1994 with an endowment from William R. Hewlett. The founders believed there were compelling reasons to create an institution like PPIC. They saw California s political and social landscape shifting rapidly and recognized the need to link accurate, groundbreaking research to policymaking. They envisioned a research institute that would help inform public discussion by providing careful analysis of the issues and trends that affect public policy.