Azad Strategies develops ambitious policy that can win politically and work in practice, for progressive candidates, elected officials, and advocacy organizations.
About Azad
आज़ादآزاد
Azad (adj.) Free. Liberated. Independent.
Rooted in South Asia’s struggle for independence from colonial rule, the name Azad reflects our belief that politics should expand freedom, opportunity, and dignity for all.
We reject the idea that progressive leaders must choose between bold policy and political viability. A clear agenda gives voters a reason to organize, gives officials a mandate to act, and gives the public a way to hold them accountable.
What We Do
Agendas that speak to everyday struggles and tell people exactly what they stand to gain, written and ready to publish.
Complex policy turned into language voters remember, without losing the legal, fiscal, and political realities underneath it.
Support for moving an idea through government, from the first draft to the hearing room and beyond.
Decision-ready analysis for leaders who need the trade-offs, the feasibility, and a clear recommendation.
Our Approach
We begin with the people you serve and what would change their lives, then push past what the conventional wisdom says is possible.
We pressure-test every idea against fiscal, legal, political, and operational reality, keeping what holds and rebuilding what doesn’t.
You get finished work: a platform, a memo, a bill, an op-ed, or a strategy your team can use right away.
Every engagement begins with a complimentary 30-minute consultation.
Targeted expertise for a defined project, priority, or moment in your campaign.
Fixed project fee, based on scope
Consistent policy and strategic support as your campaign or governing agenda evolves.
Monthly fee, three-month minimum
Founder
Strategist. Policymaker. Community organizer.
Dhruv began his political career at 16 as an organizer in Hopewell, New Jersey, mobilizing students and community members to advocate for anti-racist reforms in the public schools he attended. At 21, he became the youngest and first South Asian elected member of the Hopewell Valley Regional School District Board of Education.
That experience shaped his belief that change begins locally and must be rooted in tangible policy outcomes.
Master in Public Policy candidate at Harvard Kennedy School. B.A. in Economics and Political Science, minor in Statistics, magna cum laude, Boston University.
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Selected Work
This work comes from Dhruv’s prior professional roles. It is not a product of Azad Strategies LLC.
Developed one of the nation’s most comprehensive municipal immigrant protection frameworks, strengthening safeguards against ICE in Jersey City.
Drafted Jersey City’s rent control audit, identifying 20,000+ rent-controlled units, and advanced Illinois Housing Development Authority reforms incentivizing transit-oriented development.
Drafted legislation and strategic communications addressing rising electricity costs, grid modernization, and energy demand.
Developed a comprehensive legislative package expanding employment pathways and educational opportunities for neurodiverse New Jerseyans.
Developed legislation banning food dyes and harmful food additives, with public advocacy for the bill.
Work With Azad
Whether you’re launching a campaign, drafting a policy agenda, or preparing to govern, let’s talk about what’s possible. Your first 30-minute consultation is on us.
Email Dhruv Kapadia