InfluenceWatch, a project of the Capital Research Center (CRC), continues to expand its online database tracking advocacy groups, foundations, and donors involved in public policy. The website aims to increase transparency around these organizations’ funding sources, motives, and connections.
According to CRC, “The information compiled in InfluenceWatch gives news outlets and other interested parties research to use in reporting on significant topics that are often overlooked by the American public.”
Recent additions highlighted by CRC include A Way Home America, which advocates for policies on housing, homelessness, and LGBT rights. The group’s 2024 annual report notes that three of its proposals were introduced as legislation in the 118th Congress: the Youth Homelessness Guaranteed Income Pilot Project Act of 2024 (H.R. 7451), the Homes for Young Adults Act of 2024 (H.R. 8722), and the Commission on Youth Homelessness Act (H.R. 7908). Major funders listed include the Raikes Foundation, Annie E. Casey Foundation, Melville Charitable Trust, and Conrad N. Hilton Foundation.
Another addition is the Arizona Palestine Solidarity Alliance (APSA), described as a pro-Palestinian network opposing U.S.-Israel partnerships and supporting boycott efforts against Israel. APSA operates under fiscal sponsorship from the Alliance for Global Justice and partners with organizations such as Jewish Voice for Peace and Students for Justice in Palestine.
Rural Arizona Engagement (RAZE) was also profiled; it works to promote progressive values through voter advocacy. Natali Fierros Bock previously served as co-executive director before moving to One Arizona in 2024. RAZE receives support from entities like Amalgamated Charitable Foundation, NEO Philanthropy, New Venture Fund, Tides Foundation, Way to Rise, Windward Fund, and Women Donors Network.
The Women’s Environmental Leadership Fund (WE LEAD) focuses on supporting environmental initiatives led by women and nonbinary individuals. Established by Tides Foundation alongside six other similar projects since 2019, WE LEAD distributed $1.54 million in grants during 2023 to groups including Native Movement and Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition.
Also added is Election Law Navigator—an online legal database developed by William & Mary Law School’s Election Law Program with support from several philanthropic foundations including Democracy Fund and Hewlett Foundation. Rebecca Green serves as co-director of this initiative.
CRC stated: “InfluenceWatch…offers transparency into these influencers’ funding, motives, and connections while providing insight often neglected by other watchdog groups.”
