Learning across the funding boundary: the Inclusive Rigour Design Canvas for philanthropy and grantees
Date: Friday 20th November 2026
Time: 12:00 – 14:00 (Eastern Standard Time)
Location: Ancillary Room, Evaluation 2026, The Charlotte Convention Center, Charlotte, NC
Hosts: Maria Selde (Humanity United), Marina Apgar (Inclusive Rigour Co-Lab and Institute of Development Studies), Mariah Cannon (Institute of Development Studies)
Philanthropic funders increasingly fund portfolios to achieve systems change, where outcomes emerge over time, and credible learning depends on understanding how change unfolds through the experience of system actors themselves. Yet many of the choices that shape the rigour and inclusiveness of that learning are made by funders on their own, often without grantees or learning partners.
Co-hosted by Humanity United, the Inclusive Rigour Co-Lab and its host the Institute of Development Studies, this side event introduces the Inclusive Rigour Design Canvas and Workbook as a shared tool for funders and grantees.
After a short introduction to the Canvas, a conversation between HU and the Co-Lab will explore where funder choices shape learning in systems-change work. Participants will then use the Canvas to discuss what they would do differently in their own funding relationships.
This side event is for foundation staff, grantees and evaluators who want practical ways to learn together across the boundaries that shape systems change work.
Interested in the Inclusive Rigour Co-Lab work but unable to attend Evaluation 2026? Follow the Inclusive Rigour Co-Lab on LinkedIn to find out about future in-person and online events
Access the Canvas and Design Workbook
The Inclusive Rigour Co-Lab uses circles of action, reflection and learning to engage with actors in the global evaluation ecosystem. Therefore, the Co-Lab wants to maintain a learning-focused dialogue with individuals and organisations using the Canvas. The Canvas and design workbook are available for free – you only need to fill in the form below and the resources will be automatically sent to you, including English, French, Spanish and Portuguese versions.
We will only contact you to enquire how you have been using the Canvas and to answer any questions you may have. You won’t be signed up to any newsletters.