Beyond Capacity Building: Investing in People & Purpose

Traditional models of capacity building in the social sector are increasingly questioned. Are we strengthening organizations in ways that truly enable them to thrive, or are we reinforcing outdated, donor-driven approaches? At the same time, leadership development and investment in people remain undervalued, despite being critical to lasting impact. This session creates space to reflect on what is and isn’t working, and to imagine a new generation of capacity building: approaches that are people-centered, context-driven, and designed to fuel long-term, systemic change.

Together let's discuss:

• What do nonprofits and social entrepreneurs really need when it comes to capacity building and leadership development, and who gets to decide?
• When does capacity building genuinely strengthen organizations and leaders, and when can it be a distraction or even harmful?
• How can funders and intermediaries shift mindsets to value investment in people and leadership as essential to social impact, not optional overhead?
• What emerging models or practices (e.g., leadership programs, coaching, mentorship, peer learning) show promise for reimagining capacity building in ways that are collaborative, trust-based, and power-aware?