Abstract
The CGIAR 2030 Research and Innovation Strategy sets the stage for doing business differently to ensure that research provides real solutions for development. To support these changes, CGIAR is committed to following seven new implementation approaches, or Ways of Working (WoWs). This brief summarizes key findings from an evaluative learning report on one of CGIAR’s Way of Working on innovative finance as a mechanism to support delivery of its research and innovation agenda.
The methodology is based primarily on a structured desk review of internal and external evidence, including The Independent Advisory and Evaluation Service (IAES)-led evaluations; Independent Science for Development Council (ISDC) and Standing Panel on Impact Assessment (SPIA) reviews, center- and Board-led evaluations, inception reports from the 2025–30 CGIAR Research and Innovation Portfolio, and relevant external literature.
The findings indicate that CGIAR has strong scientific credibility, global networks, and technical expertise that can be used to attract and inform innovative finance instruments. However, lasting progress will require building institutional capacities and strengthening strategic coherence across centers to translate finance innovation into scalable impact across agri-food systems.
You can access the full report Innovative Finance: Learning on CGIAR’s Ways of Working.
Citation
CGIAR Independent Advisory and Evaluation Function (IAES). 2025. Brief - Innovative Finance: Summary of Learning on Ways of Working Independent. Rome: IAES Evaluation Function.
Publisher
CGIAR Independent Advisory and Evaluation Function (IAES), Evaluation Function
