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Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are a powerful tool for understanding what works in development and anti-poverty programs. They provide insights to guide practitioners and policymakers in improving and scaling interventions. But for RCT findings to inform these decisions, they must be communicated clearly and systematically—something that’s easier said than done. Good reporting isn’t just abo…

This post originally appeared as a LinkedIn Article A single email can mean the difference between a student graduating college, getting a well-paying job, and moving into the middle class—or dropping out of school under a mountain of debt. Given that people with bachelor’s degrees earn 67% more than high school graduates, these small interventions […] The post From Financial Aid to the American …

When a nonprofit wants to raise more money, conventional wisdom suggests bombarding donors with emotional appeals and compelling data. But what if the secret to unlocking greater charitable giving lies in understanding how people actually make decisions? In a recent fireside chat, Victoria Vrana, CEO of GlobalGiving, and Sarah Welch, Managing Director of Charitable Giving & Philanthropy at ideas4…

This post originally appeared as a LinkedIn Article The nonprofit sector is at a critical crossroads—bullied and pressured into silence. Organizations supporting those excluded from economic security face scrutiny, doubt, and hostility while striving to meet rising needs with limited resources. The effects are not just institutional; they extend into the lives of real people: […] The post Why Peo…

Early on a Tuesday morning in Boone, Iowa, while the corn fields are still wet with dew, the coffee counter at a local Casey’s gas station hums with conversation. Loitering near the cash register, John chats up his neighbors while his truck finishes filling with diesel.  He’s been coming here for coffee and a doughnut […] The post How Farmer Networks Can Unlock Sustainable Agriculture appeared fi…

This post originally appeared as a LinkedIn Article At first glance, it can seem contradictory that President Trump’s inauguration is on the same day we celebrate Dr. King’s legacy. We honor the face of the Civil Rights movement, the man who embodied social, legal, and economic security for not only Black Americans but all Americans. […] The post Reframing Equity for Everyone: Lessons from Dr. Ki…

This year has been a testament to the idea that we are greater than the sum of our parts. We’ve collaborated with partners around the world in a range of fields. Here are a few projects that showcase how much more we accomplish together. The post The Power of Us: 2024 in Review appeared first on ideas42 .

The girls jittered as they looked down at the game board. If they moved their piece one more square forward, they would win the game. Afia drew the game card for her team and the blood immediately drained from her face. Oh no—it was the dreaded Chance card. The girls on the opposing teams shrieked […] The post How a Board Game Empowers Girls in Ghana to Control Their Reproductive Futures appeared…

This post originally appeared as a LinkedIn Article We’re approaching the Giving Season, and if that stirs up a mix of emotions for you, you’re not alone. For those who want to support meaningful causes and make a positive impact in the world, the Giving Season is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the […] The post Making Giving Season Expansive appeared first on ideas42 .

This post originally appeared as a LinkedIn Article The Presidential election has begun. The polls won’t close for another two weeks, but record numbers of Americans have already been casting ballots in person and by mail. I’m encouraged by these early numbers and cautiously relieved because solid voter turnout has never been a given. But […] The post Here’s How We Protect the Vote appeared first…