The Northeast–Midwest Institute is a Washington, DC–based, private, nonprofit, and nonpartisan research organization dedicated to economic vitality, environmental quality, and regional equity in the traditional rust belt states of the Northeast and Midwest. Formed in the mid-1970s, the Institute fulfills its mission by conducting research and analysis, developing and advancing innovative policy, providing evaluation of key federal programs, disseminating information, and highlighting sound economic and environmental technologies and practices. The Institute is unique among policy centers because of its ties to Congress through the bipartisan Northeast–Midwest Congressional and Senate Coalitions. Co-chaired by Senators Susan Collins (R–ME) and Jack Reed (D–RI), and Representatives Marty Meehan (D–MA) and Jack Quinn (R–NY), the coalitions advance federal policies that enhance the region's economy and environment.