Strong partnerships are critical for turning insights from guaranteed income programs into long-term policies and programs. Forming a coalition of guaranteed income programs can help you share insights with other leaders, better integrate direct cash supports into existing safety net programs, and amplify impact across the region.

This section outlines key lessons learned from the LA County Guaranteed Income Coordinating Council (LA GICC). Created in 2022, LA GICC fosters collaboration across 14 guaranteed income pilots in the region; engages diverse stakeholders (including people with low income, nonprofit leaders, and policymakers); and connects each pilot’s efforts to broader goals.

Identify Strategic Partners

Before you can build a regional coalition and develop shared goals, you must first choose the right organizing partners.

Collaborating with key government agencies, such as health departments, can help secure essentials like benefit eligibility waivers and recruit target participants. For example, the Los Angeles County Chief Executive Office oversees 58 departments delivering services and policies in numerous autonomous cities. It manages the county's budget, administration, and special initiatives, while also working with the county Board of Supervisors to implement, administer, and monitor critical initiatives, programs, and reforms. This kind of systemic reach and know-how has been critical in helping the LA GICC meet its goals. Relationships with potential participants, grassroots leaders, legislators, funders, and evaluators are also important.

Engage Participants in Designing the Coalition

To build a strong coalition, involve participants early. Organizing partners should identify program sites and lead structured discussions.

Begin with at least one in-person meeting and then schedule follow-up calls to further define goals and activities. Establishing a collaborative structure from the outset strengthens individual programs and lays the groundwork for long-term success.