About Res Publica

We empower bold public entrepreneurship with trusted infrastructure and uncommon agility.

Res Publica is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing fiscal and legal sponsorship to mission-driven initiatives. We enable impactful projects to operate, grow, and navigate the regulatory and operations challenges of doing work at scale.

Founded in 2004 by public entrepreneurs with direct experience building social movements, Res Publica was built by people who understand the realities of creating impact on the ground. The organization incorporated in New York State in 2004 and has supported a wide range of initiatives, including Avaaz.org, 24 Hours for Darfur, the Tibet Action Institute, and the Wildfire Project. In 2015, Res Publica partnered with 350.org, CAN, and GCCA to help mobilize civil society engagement during the UNFCCC COP in support of the adoption of the Paris Climate Agreement.

Today, we bring decades of experience together with practical tools and flexible structures that help mission-driven initiatives operate efficiently, engage communities meaningfully, and deliver strong program results. From early-stage start-ups to established institutions, we design tailored solutions for lasting impact.

We support initiatives advancing positive cultural change, stewardship of the planet, human freedom and flourishing.

Res Publica Team

  • Ricken Patel

    Ricken Patel

    Executive Director

    Ricken is a public entrepreneur and changemaker. As the founding CEO of Avaaz for 15 years, he dedicated himself to empower citizens to have a voice in shaping a more just and peaceful world.

  • Joseph Martorano

    Joseph Martorano

    Operations & Finance

    Joseph serves as Senior Director of Operations and Finance, bringing more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit administration, finance, HR, and fiscal sponsorship operations.

  • Mathilde Mansoz

    Mathilde Mansoz

    Special Projects

    Mathilde is an accomplished professional experienced in leading & managing operations and finance of complex, high-level projects across private and non-profit sectors.