Systems Thinking and Complex Problem Design

Systems design recognises social problems as interconnected within larger systems, focusing on relationships, feedback loops, and patterns rather than isolated components. It emphasises the creation of holistic, adaptive solutions for complex, multifaceted challenge

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The grassroots and the grass tree: Humana People to People India (HPPI)Paper / Report

1 June 2022

The grassroots and the grass tree: Humana People to People India (HPPI)

Humana People to People India (HPPI) is a non-profit organization working for the holistic development of marginalised populations in rural and urban India. Established in 1998, today it is an organization with an organizational strength of over 4,000 people, and working in 7,000 villages across 92 districts. The case engages with how HPPI evolved a structure, culture and organizational leadership to hold together multiple kinds of talent as well as work closely with the State and public delivery system that inform the current development narrative. The case can also inform learners of principles of design as they grow to scale.

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Case Study

Better Finance Better World

This flagship report from the Blended Finance Taskforce presents a strategic roadmap for mobilizing private capital at scale to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It argues for a fundamental shift in the financial system, advocating for the strategic use of concessional development finance to de-risk and attract commercial investment into impactful projects. The report outlines actionable recommendations for creating enabling policy environments, developing pipelines of bankable projects, and establishing robust governance frameworks. It emphasizes the necessity of collaboration between public, private, and philanthropic actors to bridge the global financing gap.
Case Study

Blended Finance in the Private Sector Context

This primer provides a foundational overview of blended finance within the context of private sector development, framing it as a redefinition of public-private cooperation. It outlines the roles of different stakeholders, key financial instruments, and the ecosystem drivers necessary for success. The paper emphasizes the enabling conditions required to scale blended approaches, including effective policy coordination, innovative risk absorption mechanisms, and standardized measurement frameworks. It serves as a guide for public and private actors on collaborating effectively to channel capital towards inclusive and sustainable growth.
Case Study
  • 3 September 2025

Blended finance in the SDG Era

This document summarizes key discussions from a UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) workshop focused on blended finance in the era of the SDGs. It captures shared challenges and opportunities identified by participants from governments, the UN system, civil society, and the private sector. The report outlines common issues, including the critical need for better impact measurement tools, effective risk management strategies, and enhanced institutional capacity. It concludes with recommended actions to better integrate and mainstream blended finance approaches into national SDG strategies.
Blog
  • 1 January 1970

How Is Data Science Being Used to Tackle the Global Problem of Clean Water?

This article explores how data science is instrumental in addressing the global clean water crisis. It details how data-driven approaches enable efficient water resource management, including monitoring water quality, detecting leaks in infrastructure, and predicting demand. By analyzing diverse datasets from sensors, satellite imagery, and consumption patterns, data scientists can identify contamination sources, optimize distribution networks, and implement targeted conservation strategies. The insights derived help authorities and organizations make informed decisions, improve water accessibility, and ensure sustainable water supplies for communities worldwide, significantly contributing to public health and environmental well-being.
Blog
  • 1 January 1970

HOW WILL WATER MANAGEMENT LOOK IN 2030 USING DATA ANALYTICS?

This article forecasts the future of water management in 2030, emphasizing the transformative role of data analytics. It predicts a shift towards highly intelligent, interconnected systems that leverage real-time data from sensors and IoT devices for proactive monitoring of water quality, leakage detection, and consumption patterns. Data analytics will enable predictive maintenance for infrastructure, optimize water distribution, and support smart irrigation practices, reducing waste and ensuring sustainable supply. The vision includes AI-powered decision-making tools that enhance resilience against climate change impacts and facilitate equitable water resource allocation globally.
Blog
  • 1 January 1970

How Data Science is Reshaping Health Care

Data science is fundamentally reshaping healthcare by leveraging vast amounts of data to improve patient outcomes and operational efficiency. This article details how data-driven insights enhance diagnostics, personalize treatment plans, and predict disease outbreaks. It highlights the use of machine learning for analyzing medical images, genomics, and electronic health records to identify patterns and inform clinical decisions. Furthermore, data science optimizes hospital operations, manages supply chains, and develops new drugs. These applications lead to more precise medicine, reduced costs, and a proactive approach to public health.
Case Study
  • 9 April 2017

Blended Finance for Development -bridging the Sustainable Development Finance Gap

The flyer discusses how blended finance can strategically use development finance to mobilise additional private sector finance towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It aims to bridge the significant financing gap by creating investment opportunities in developing countries. The OECD promotes a set of principles to ensure that blended finance maximizes development impact while ensuring transparency and commercial viability, helping to direct capital towards areas of greatest need for a sustainable future.
Paper / Report
  • 1 January 2012

Defining an Ecosystem for Social Finance

This paper defines and describes the key components of an ecosystem for social finance, including various institutions and sources of capital. It outlines the interconnected elements necessary for the effective functioning and growth of the social finance market. The authors aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the infrastructure required to support social investments and foster a thriving environment for impact-driven organizations.
Case Study
  • 1 January 2020

Delineating Social Finance

This article aims to delineate the concept of social finance, distinguishing it from traditional finance and related fields. It explores various components, including impact investments, social enterprises, and venture philanthropy, as integral parts of the social economy. The author seeks to provide a clearer understanding of the scope and characteristics of social finance, emphasizing its unique blend of financial and social objectives and its role in addressing societal challenges.
Case Study
  • 3 June 2018

Blended Finance and Its Potential for Development Cooperation

This report analyses the concept of blended finance and its potential role within development cooperation, with a specific focus on Austria’s engagement. It critically assesses the opportunities and risks, questioning whether blended finance effectively targets poverty reduction and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The paper examines the influence of private sector priorities and highlights the danger of Official Development Assistance (ODA) being diverted to de-risk private investments that might have occurred anyway. It recommends a cautious approach, emphasizing transparency, strong development criteria, and alignment with partner country priorities.
Case Study
  • 1 January 2021

Blended Finance: Implications for Supervisors

This report, aimed at financial supervisors and regulators, unpacks the key implications of the growing blended finance market. It explores how these complex financing structures affect financial stability, consumer protection, and institutional risk management within supervised entities. The paper highlights the urgent need for supervisors to build their capacity to understand and oversee blended finance activities within their jurisdictions. It emphasizes the importance of clear regulatory frameworks and effective coordination between development finance institutions (DFIs) and supervisory agencies to foster a responsible and sustainable blended finance ecosystem.
Case Study
  • 1 January 2018

Developing an Ecosystem of Social Finance: Québec’s Experience

This report outlines Québec’s experience in developing a comprehensive ecosystem for social finance, focusing on the role of social economy institutions, tools, and instruments. It details the strategies employed to foster a supportive environment for social enterprises and impact investments. The authors provide insights into how policy frameworks, financial mechanisms, and collaborative initiatives have contributed to building a robust social finance landscape in Québec.
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