We saw the need for a new kind of nonpartisan political dialogue, one devoted exclusively to coming up with positive solutions from a wide range of sources. We imagined a set of tools that could refine and consolidate ideas that came in from this diverse array of participants, weeding out those that seemed ineffective or were too impractical. Such an environment seemed to us the perfect starting point for the formation of a variety of coalitions of individuals and organizations, each connected to others around the positive goals and ideas that they shared.

What if there was a website where people could brainstorm new solutions to a variety of problems? What if like-minded people were put in touch with each other and given a chance to develop and refine their ideas in a dialogue process? What if those people were given the opportunity to meet face-to-face in order to discuss and improve their ideas? What if the proposals that got the strongest peer response were then acted on and brought to the attention of legislators and other decision-makers? The Solution Exchange and Dialogue Network for Action (DNA) projects were born. These two interlocking projects are at the center of our vision, and are our top priority.