The Manhattan Institute for Policy Research (MI), commonly referred to as the Manhattan Institute, is a prominent American conservative think tank based in New York City. Founded in 1978 in Manhattan by British philanthropist Antony Fisher and William J. Casey (who later became CIA Director), it operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The institute functions as an urban policy think tank advocating market-based solutions to social and economic issues, with a focus on New York and national reforms. It conducts research and promotes free-market policies, education reform, and urban development ideas, addressing domestic policy challenges such as healthcare reform, higher education accessibility, public housing, criminal justice, welfare reform, economic development, prisoner reentry programs, and policing strategies. The institute advocates for market-oriented approaches to urban affairs, critiques government overreach, and promotes private-sector involvement in social services. It publishes through imprints like Encounter Books and its flagship publication City Journal, and its scholars frequently contribute to major media outlets. MI has played a significant role in shaping conservative thought and influencing Republican policy agendas, with notable early support from Lewis E. Lehrman and ongoing connections to conservative philanthropic networks, including trustee and major donor Roger Hertog. The institute has been instrumental in debates over 'broken windows' policing and school choice, with alumni and fellows holding influential positions in government and academia. While praised by conservatives for rigorous analysis, it faces criticism from progressives for allegedly exacerbating inequality and undermining public institutions, and has been involved in controversies such as defense of stop-and-frisk policies and allegations of corporate influence due to business funding.