How can you create cross-sector partnerships for system innovation?

1 Identify a shared vision

The first step is to identify a shared vision that aligns with the goals and values of the different partners. This can help to create a common ground and a sense of purpose for the collaboration. A shared vision can also guide the design and implementation of the system innovation, as well as the evaluation and learning of the results. For example, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development provides a global vision that can inspire cross-sector partnerships for system innovation in various domains.

2 Map the system and the stakeholders

The second step is to map the system and the stakeholders that are involved or affected by the system innovation. This can help to understand the dynamics, relationships, and influences that shape the system, as well as the needs, interests, and capacities of the stakeholders. A system map can also help to identify the gaps, opportunities, and leverage points for system innovation, as well as the potential partners and allies that can support the collaboration. For example, the Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform is a network that maps and connects stakeholders across Europe to promote circular economy practices.

3 Establish a governance structure

The third step is to establish a governance structure that defines the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of the different partners. This can help to create a transparent and accountable framework for the collaboration, as well as a mechanism for decision-making, communication, and conflict resolution. A governance structure can also help to balance the power and influence of the different partners, as well as to ensure their participation and representation in the system innovation. For example, the Global Partnership for Education is a multistakeholder partnership that has a board, a secretariat, and a funding mechanism to support education system reform in developing countries.

4 Co-create and co-deliver solutions

The fourth step is to co-create and co-deliver solutions that address the system innovation challenge. This can help to generate and test ideas that are informed by the perspectives and experiences of the different partners, as well as by the evidence and insights from the system. Co-creation and co-delivery can also help to foster trust, ownership, and commitment among the partners, as well as to leverage their resources and capabilities for the system innovation. For example, the Living Labs Network is a platform that facilitates co-creation and co-delivery of solutions for urban sustainability among local governments, businesses, researchers, and citizens.

5 Learn and adapt

The fifth step is to learn and adapt from the system innovation process and outcomes. This can help to monitor and evaluate the impact and effectiveness of the system innovation, as well as to identify the challenges and opportunities for improvement. Learning and adapting can also help to capture and share the lessons and best practices from the system innovation, as well as to scale and replicate the solutions in other contexts. For example, the Social Innovation Community is a project that supports learning and adaptation among social innovators across Europe through online and offline events, tools, and publications.

6 Celebrate and acknowledge

The sixth step is to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements and contributions of the system innovation and the partners. This can help to recognize and appreciate the value and impact of the system innovation, as well as to motivate and inspire the partners and other stakeholders. Celebrating and acknowledging can also help to build and maintain relationships and networks among the partners, as well as to attract and engage new partners and supporters for the system innovation. For example, the UN Global Compact is a initiative that celebrates and acknowledges the achievements and contributions of businesses that advance the Sustainable Development Goals through cross-sector partnerships.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?