The Palmetto Promise Institute (PPI) is a conservative think tank based in South Carolina, dedicated to promoting free-market policies, limited government, and educational reforms to foster opportunity and freedom for individuals in the state. Originally founded in 2009 as the Palmetto Fort Foundation in honor of the Battle of Fort Moultrie, it was relaunched in 2013 by former U.S. Senator Jim DeMint using $300,000 from his leftover campaign funds. As a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization, PPI conducts research, analysis, and advocacy on issues affecting the common good, with a mission to advance policy solutions that enable every South Carolinian to reach their full, God-given potential. It emphasizes building strong families, thriving businesses, and vibrant communities through limited government intervention, and is affiliated with the State Policy Network, a coalition of conservative and libertarian think tanks. Led by President and CEO Wendy Damron, PPI engages in public education through publications, podcasts like 'Beyond Policy' hosted by Senior Fellow Dr. Oran P. Smith, and direct advocacy at the state legislature. The organization has been instrumental in advancing school choice initiatives, including mobilizing support for education savings accounts (ESAs) following a 2023 South Carolina Supreme Court ruling that struck down a prior program. PPI's efforts contributed to the creation of a stronger, permanent ESA program, earning it the 2025 Bob Williams Award for Biggest Win for Freedom from the State Policy Network. With a 2023 budget of $530,000, PPI operates as an independent foundation, focusing on principled research and community impact. PPI has also addressed broader policy areas such as tax reform, energy challenges, tort laws, and election administration, releasing agendas like the Palmetto Freedom Agenda for 2025-26 outlining 20 researched policies. It has joined legal efforts, including an amicus brief in NRA v. Vullo to protect free speech, and critiques state entities like Santee Cooper on policy matters. While primarily focused on state-level advocacy, PPI's work aligns with national conservative priorities, reflecting Jim DeMint's influence as co-founder and financial backer. The organization publishes policy reports and engages in public education and advocacy on issues including K-12 education reform, higher education access, economic development, healthcare policy, and tax reform, collaborating with other conservative organizations to influence South Carolina state legislation and public opinion.