Establishing financial balance within an organization is a critical aspect, especially in a think tank environment where the intellectual output is inextricably linked to the available resources. This discourse aims to dissect the intricacies involved in formulating a strategic budget for US Think Tanks.

Firstly, let's bring the concept of a think tank into perspective. A think tank, as you're well aware, is an organization that conducts research to influence policy-making in various sectors, be it political, economic, technological, or social. The United States is home to numerous prestigious think tanks, such as the Brookings Institution and the Heritage Foundation, which play a crucial role in shaping national and global policy.

So, what is a strategic budget and why is it vital for think tanks? A strategic budget is a detailed financial plan that aligns with the organization's strategic goals and objectives. It is an indispensable tool that guides the allocation of resources, ensuring the financial sustainability of the organization and supporting its mission. Without a strategic budget, think tanks risk misallocating resources, which could hinder their ability to conduct critical research and influence policy effectively.

The process of creating a strategic budget can be bifurcated into several stages.

Firstly, the think tank should define its strategic objectives. This step involves outlining what the organization wants to achieve in the foreseeable future. Goals could range from broad missions such as influencing national security policies, to specific tasks like publishing a certain number of research papers.

Once the objectives are clearly defined, the next step involves determining the resources required to achieve these goals. This process, often termed 'resource mapping', is crucial in identifying the human and material resources necessary to sustain the functioning of the organization.

Following the mapping exercise, the budgeting stage commences. This is where the organization pinpoints the exact monetary requirement for each resource. It is always advisable to employ a cost-benefit analysis technique during this phase to ensure maximum efficiency. Given that think tanks are often non-profit entities, the principle of 'Economic Value Added' (EVA) can be beneficial. EVA is a measure of a project or division's profitability after considering the cost of capital involved.

After cost estimation, funding sources must be identified. The lifeblood of any think tanks is typically a mix of private donations, government grants, and income from consultancy services or research sales. It's crucial to have a diversified funding pool to mitigate the risk of over-reliance on a single source.

Upon obtaining funding, the implementation of the budget begins. Regular audits are necessary to monitor adherence to the budget, with adjustments made as required.

However, building a strategic budget for think tanks does come with its challenges and tradeoffs. Particularly, there's the dilemma of striking a balance between the think tank's intellectual independence and the influence of donors. This necessitates stringent financial governance and transparency measures to maintain the organization's credibility and integrity.

It's important to note that, while think tanks are vital policy influencers, their effectiveness largely depends on the strategic allocation of their resources. A well-thought-out strategic budget is therefore not just a financial necessity, but a tool that significantly augments their capacity to contribute to policy-making.

The role of think tanks in shaping policy discourse cannot be overstated. By developing a strategic budget, these institutions can ensure their sustainability and continue to influence policy for the betterment of society. While a budget may seem like a purely financial instrument, for think tanks, it is a critical tool that directly impacts their policy influence and societal contribution.

In conclusion, creating a strategic budget for US Think Tanks is an art form that merges economic principles with the organization's mission, making it an essential part of their success.