Local voices, global impact: Enhancing collaboration between local and international organizations

Finding new ways to operationalize decades-long aspirations, thinking around the topic of localization is reshaping the global development and humanitarian aid sector. Traditional providers of official development assistance controlling the "what, how, and where" of aid are grappling with their roles in this changing landscape. Despite optimistic rhetoric, questions remain as to whether the localization push can lead to genuine change.

Donors globally set ambitious goals for localization, such as the U.S. Agency for International Development's stated aim to shift 25% of direct funding to local organizations by 2025. However, this shift demands systemic and operational changes for both donor and recipient organizations, prompting questions about how to effectively move toward locally-led development and how global organizations can support localized aid.

In the evolving landscape of global development and humanitarian aid, there is a growing emphasis on empowering local actors to lead impactful change within their communities. As part of the Roots of Change content series, and following our first virtual event "From the ground up: Strategies for local development success," this second session aims to deepen the dialogue on the transformative potential of locally-led initiatives.

The virtual event will focus on bridging gaps between local and international organizations, exploring innovative models for effective collaboration, advocating for policies that empower local entities, and showcasing the critical role of advocacy in driving systemic change. Discussions will spotlight successful partnerships, address systemic challenges, and propose actionable strategies to advance inclusive development agendas.

Supported by our partners Action Against Hunger, African Visionary Fund, The Aurum Institute, Catholic Relief Services, ChildFund, Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, Council on Foundations, Global Health Advocacy Incubator, International Development Innovation Alliance, Mayor’s Migration Council, the U.S. Overseas Cooperative Development Council’s International Cooperative Research Group, the U.N. Refugee Agency, and UNICEF, this virtual event will bring together expert voices to discuss the latest innovations, challenges, and opportunities in locally-led development.