When official development assistance shrinks and geopolitical uncertainty mounts, where do development players turn? Increasingly, to philanthropy. And behind the scenes, to philanthropic networks — the often invisible spaces where funders gather, reflect, and sometimes change.
But in this high-stakes moment, can networks do more than convene? Can they actually accelerate better, bolder funding?
That was the core question explored during a recent Devex Pro event featuring Laura Savage of the International Education Funders Group, Melanie Ormos of Forward Global, and Randall Kempner of the Climate Philanthropy Catalyst Coalition. The conversation offered a rare inside look at how these networks are operating — and what’s shifting under pressure.