Our change theory
Our change theory sets out how we understand the interconnected challenges we work on, and how change happens over time.
Our vision
A just and resilient world where those most affected by intersecting crises have the power to shape their own futures.
The challenges
We focus on three interconnected challenges that undermine resilience.
Human security
Protecting survival and dignity in the face of acute threats, including conflict, natural disasters and climate shocks.
Poverty and insecurity
Addressing persistent economic exclusion and unequal access to opportunity, by tackling the structural drivers of injustice.
Climate risk
Responding to escalating threats to lives and livelihoods from climate impacts, which will intensify without a fast, fair transition.
Systems
The systems that underpin these challenges also shape resilience over time. We focus on three areas where change is critical:
Energy systems
Shifting towards affordable, reliable and low-carbon energy systems that support livelihoods and reduce emissions.
Natural resource systems
Strengthening how land, water and natural systems are managed to support human wellbeing and reduce long-term climate risk.
Social systems
Shaping how power, resources and knowledge are structured and distributed, including through institutions, norms and financial systems. These include governance and democratic systems, civil and cultural systems, knowledge systems, and financial and economic systems.
Pathways for change
Change rarely happens through a single intervention. We focus on four pathways that unlock systems change:
Changemakers
People and organisations reimagining systems and building alternatives.
Movement and coalitions
Collective efforts across civil society, government and the private sector that build power, generate ideas and challenge entrenched structures.
Narratives
The stories and ideas that shape public understanding, shift norms and expand what is seen as possible.
Knowledge and innovation
New evidence, models and approaches that expand what is technically, socially and institutionally possible.
How we resource change
We support these pathways through:
Impact-first investments
Approaches that help unlock capital, test new models and shift financial systems towards fairer outcomes.
Grant funding
Flexible, long-term support for organisations, movements and institutions working in the public interest.
Field engagement
Partnerships, convening and collaboration that strengthen ecosystems and amplify underrepresented voices.
A dynamic approach
This is not a linear model. The challenges we face are shaped by systems, and systems evolve over time.
Explore our grants driving global impact
