Interested in membership?

The Smart Thinking Membership Network was established as a space for UK think tanks to access tailored training and networking opportunities. At its core, the membership provides a formal vehicle for increased collaboration and connection between think tanks, whether through its networks, formal knowledge sharing or many different peer-to-peer events. The membership also enables think tanks to pool resources and provide tailored training for their staff. The whole membership has been designed so that you can benefit no matter whether you work in research, communications or operations or whether you are a junior researcher or a think tank Chief Executive.

Benefits

Monthly expert webinars on topics across research, comms and operations

In-person tailored intensive training sessions

Member website and knowledge bank

Mentoring scheme

Networking events for all staff including CEO lunch, Operations Network, Events Network, Heads of Research, Senior Communications, Senior Fundraisers Network and Researchers Network

15% off all job adverts on Smart Thinking Jobs

Buddy system to informally build your professional network

Membership options

Membership is by think tank and is based on the number of full-time employees.

Annually Monthly

Tier 1

£1500 £175

+VAT /yr+VAT /mth

1 – 10 people

Become a member

Tier 2

£2000 £250

+VAT /yr+VAT /mth

11 – 20 people

Become a member

Tier 3

£3000 £375

+VAT /yr+VAT /mth

20+ people

Become a member

Training

Out training has been designed to focus on the areas that think tankers need to develop in their professional careers. We host regular sessions that cover a number of different topics. These in-person training sessions are the only part of the membership available to both members and non-members however, members receive priority booking, are entitled to complimentary tickets as part of their annual subscription and receive heavily-discounted member tickets after that. Upcoming training includes media training, strategic communications, writing for impact and many many more.

Upcoming training

Smart Thinking has created a think tank community that is invaluable to its members

“‘I really see Smart Thinking as part of our team. They provide excellent training and resources across a wide range of areas, from fundraising to salary benchmarking. They have also created a thinktank community that is incredibly helpful both as a sounding board and sharing best practice. Emily does a terrific job in bringing together the thinktank community in a way that is accessible, supportive and worthwhile for my team at all levels.”

Theo Bertram, Director, Social Market Foundation

A brilliant way to connect with colleagues across the sector and pick up fresh ideas

“I regularly join Smart Thinking’s Senior Comms Network meetings and find them a brilliant way to connect with colleagues across different think tanks, share our approaches and pick up fresh ideas to try in our own work. My team also benefits from the other ST networks, which give them valuable peer-to-peer support to grow in their careers. Smart Thinking is a real asset for anyone in the think tank world – highly recommend!”

Sian Morgan, Director of External Affairs, Centre for Cities