The Right Question Institute (RQI) is a unique and dynamic nonprofit organization that builds the capacity of individuals and communities to ask questions and participate in decisions that affect them.

RQI’s methods help people — especially those furthest from power — build skills for learning, engaging, and taking action. For more than 30 years, RQI's innovative work has been used by educators, legal aid practitioners, health care providers, public agencies, social services organizations, and many others to help strengthen people’s sense of agency, confidence, and power — contributing to a more just and equitable democracy.

By fostering a culture of question-asking and inquiry, RQI helps build a world where people have the skills and confidence to navigate complex systems, find the information they need, make their voices heard, and take democratic action. In school settings, educators from more than 160 countries use RQI’s teaching methods to bring the essential skill of question formulation to millions of students — building lifelong skills for learning, critical thinking, and participating in a robust democracy. 

To advance its mission, RQI develops simple yet powerful tools and strategies and supports frontline workers and organizations in a range of fields.

Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, RQI has an annual budget of $1.4 million and a staff of 11.

RQI values its intentional and thoughtful organizational culture, which is characterized by collaboration, inclusivity, openness, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to learning and continuous improvement. We strive to create a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace.