Supporting systems change
At Co-Impact, we believe that transforming lives at scale requires shifting systems.
How we do this
Our approach to systems change tackles the root causes of inequality. We seek to realign how power, policies, institutions, and norms operate to advance gender equality and social inclusion.
Our extraordinary program partners choose and design their own specific strategies for systems change. They use bold, evidence-based approaches that they know will work, drawing on knowledge and experience of their local systems and political economy.
A transformative idea
We offer flexible funding and strategic support to locally-rooted organizations so they can tackle entrenched problems with bold, evidence-informed strategies that can shift systems and institutions at scale.
Focus on key levers and institutionalize change
Systems are complex, and trying to fix everything at once is hard. Our partners focus on high-impact levers: public policy reform, financial resources, accountability mechanisms, and legal frameworks. They embed politically and economically resilient systems change through laws, budgets, and institutional practices.
Build powerful coalitions
Enduring systems change requires collective action. We help our partners build “winning coalitions”: alliances that include government and private actors, civil society organizations, feminist movements, and local communities.
Address structural exclusion
Most existing systems were built to serve some and not others. Our approach is focused on making systems work better for everyone and ensuring institutions are more equitable and responsive.
Change the narrative
Systems are also shaped and reinforced by the stories we tell. So our approach seeks to shift social norms and challenge discriminatory narratives, particularly around gender.
When systems are fairer, lives improve, societies thrive, and opportunities open up for all.