1. London Funders: Theory of change
David Warner & Katie Boswell – Presentation to Research & Evaluation Network (January 2017)

2. Agenda for today Introduction The journey so far Background
Creating the Theory of Change
Key lessons
What next?
Sharing and using the ToC
How would you like to use the ToC?
Wrap-up and next steps

3. The journey so far

4. Background
London Funders wanted to improve its understanding of how its work contributes to its goal: ‘the needs of Londoners are met’
London Funders’ unique contribution to that goal focuses on creating ‘an effective ecosystem for funders working in London’
Assumes that if funders operate within an effective ecosystem, then a positive social impact on Londoners will follow
London Funders approached NPC to help develop a theory of change for its work
Based on a shared understanding of what an effective ecosystem for funders looks like
Refined and tested over time—intended to be a live document

5. Creating the theory of change
Sept ‘15 Oct ‘15 Nov ‘15 Dec ‘15
Define an effective ecosystem
Develop a theory of change
Design a measurement framework
Desk research
Interviews
Brainstorm with London Funders
Workshop with Board members
Draft theory of change
Prioritise outcomes and indicators
Levels of evidence
Tools and sources

6. Key lessons
Ecosystem approach emphasises the importance of nurturing relationships and spaces for change
We should switch from being architects and engineers to being ‘ecosystem gardeners’ (Duncan Green, How change happens)
Culture and values matter
Need to understand points of leverage in the system and how to influence change
This is an ongoing task as the ecosystem and needs of Londoners are constantly evolving
No funder is an island
LF members are embedded in the wider funder ecosystem
Impact cannot be understood in isolation
Collective responsibility to own and shape the ecosystem

7. What next?

8. Sharing & using the theory of change

9. Discussion How should London Funders develop the Theory of Change?
More interactive?
More real-time information?
More case studies?
How would you like to use the London Funders Theory of Change?
Does it resonate with your organisation’s Theory of Change?
Is it a useful tool for discussions with your colleagues / Board?
Where would you place your organisation in terms of:
Knowledge?
Collaboration?
Voice?

10. Wrap-up and next steps