Embarking on a journey of systems change is like discovering the hidden pathways that unlock the potential for profound and lasting impact. Many donors engage with complex, interwoven challenges like poverty, environmental degradation, and social inequities. In these intricate systems, traditional interventions sometimes feel like trying to mend a spider’s web with individual threads. Systems change is about recognizing that addressing root causes, transforming underlying structures, and embracing a holistic approach can move beyond symptoms to create meaningful, enduring change in our complex and interconnected world.

Why Should Donors and Philanthropies Consider Systems Change Approaches?

Many donors question the need for engaging in systems work. They wonder why they should get involved in what seem like unwieldy, intractable problems. The answer to why donors should prioritize systems change initiatives lies not only in the potential for transformative impact, but also in a fundamental recognition of equity. Philanthropy, as a force for change on a large scale, exists within a system marked by inherent inequities. These disparities in power, access, and resources have enabled the philanthropic sector to emerge and thrive. Thus, as stewards of this privileged position, donors bear a responsibility to address the very inequities that make their philanthropic work possible. Systems change offers a strategic pathway to dismantle the structural barriers and injustices that perpetuate societal imbalances. Further, embracing systems change work is beneficial because it:

  • Addresses root causes and amplifies impact.
  • Creates a ripple effect.
  • Improves organizational engagement.
  • Enhances stakeholder identification and support.
  • Encourages learning and adaptation.

Select Tools and Methodologies for Driving Systems Change Based on extensive research and engagement with funders and various projects, RPA has found that in order to create systemic change, funders should deploy more resources toward:

  • Creating paradigm shifts at the deepest level to change what we label “mental models” and mindsets (values, attitudes, and beliefs).
  • Addressing root causes rather than symptoms by changing the conditions that are holding problems in place.
  • Reforming the rules of unfair systems, rather than just helping people adjust to them.
  • Supporting structural changes such as public policies, private sector practices, and resource flows.
  • Shifting power dynamics through movement-building.
  • Funding field-building through networks and community-led institutions.

Funders seeking to engage in systems change philanthropy can effectively use the same tools and techniques that are beneficial for other types of philanthropic initiatives.

Read the full PDF from Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors.