Introduction to Impact Alliances

Bringing Together Cross-Sectoral Actors Behind a Shared Goal

There are just so many ways to approach complex social problems. This is reflected in the myriad of inspiring social initiatives working on grand challenges such as strengthening democracy, fighting climate change, and ending poverty.

However, although many recognize the intersectional nature of such issues, the field of social change is still working to adapt its structures and approaches to tackle them in a more comprehensive manner. By working together more strategically—creating shared visions, aligning activities, pooling resources, etc.—social initiatives and institutions could streamline their work while significantly increasing their potential impact.

The iac Berlin sees Impact Alliances as an opportunity to take a step beyond bilateral partnerships, bringing together cross-sectoral actors behind a shared goal.

We look at what constellation of different players—obvious or unexpected—are necessary to create collective impact, and the structures that are needed to support and coordinate such alliances in the long term.

Based on recognized studies around collective impact, the iac Berlin focuses on six main activities for Impact Alliances:

  1. Guiding vision and strategy
  2. Supporting aligned activities
  3. Establishing shared measurement practices
  4. Building public will
  5. Advancing policy
  6. Mobilizing funding

With projects such as the Global Diplomacy Lab or the Hub for Democracy, the iac Berlin is developing frameworks to support the creation of cross-sectoral Impact Alliances as well as processes to establish a solid groundwork for long-term collaboration.

We will be happy to share our experience with Impact Alliances or to discuss how your organization can be included in this cross-sectoral development. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with:

Darius Polok
Managing Director
Darius.Polok@iac-berlin.org