WHAT WE DO

We provide an academic forum for the study of key science and technology (S&T) and national security policy issues with the goal of educating and empowering stakeholders in government, business, and the broader public. Based on data and evidence, we develop policy recommendations and facilitate implementation at the intersection of business and government.

Advances in technology are revolutionizing our way of life, and disruptive technologies present unique challenges. Yet, policy and implementation tend to lag technology adoption. The Institute seeks to (1) identify key emerging technologies or scientific fields with disruptive potential, (2) anticipate and assess the potential impacts, and (3) recommend meaningful policy options to the government. The Institute is committed to facilitating the implementation of data-driven policy through nonpartisan, collaborative means.

Founded in 1994, the Potomac Institute carries on the legacy of the U.S. Congress’s former Office of Technology Assessment (OTA), providing nonpartisan, data-driven analysis and policy recommendations on a range of S&T topics. Over the decades, the Potomac Institute has become the “go-to” place for independent, objective, and informed S&T policy and analysis. The Institute has conducted studies and provided high-level strategic support to the U.S. Congress, White House, Department of Defense, National Science Foundation, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Energy, Intelligence Community, and a host of others.