Funding What Works: Outcomes-Based Approaches for Impact and Accountability

​In an era of shrinking resources and growing skepticism toward evidence-based decision-making, outcomes-based financing and impact investment are emerging as critical tools to drive measurable, accountable change. But how do we ensure that funding decisions are guided by robust evidence rather than shifting political and economic pressures?

​This session will explore the latest innovations in results-based financing, including how impact investors, funders, and social enterprises can leverage evidence-driven approaches to maximize effectiveness. Participants will discuss strategies for ensuring funding flows to interventions that deliver measurable impact, and explore how to strengthen accountability mechanisms in an era where data and results are often undervalued.

​Key Questions:

• ​How can results-based financing models ensure that funding is directed toward what actually works?

• ​What are the latest innovations in impact investment and outcomes-based approaches?

• ​How can funders balance financial sustainability with accountability and measurable social impact?

• ​In an environment where evidence is often undervalued, how do we ensure rigorous data remains central to funding decisions?

• ​What role can innovative finance mechanisms play in scaling high-impact solutions while maintaining strong accountability?

​This session will bring together funders, impact investors, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss how to align financing with real-world results, ensuring that limited resources are used to drive sustainable, evidence-backed impact.

​Session Co-Leaders:

• ​Charlot Magayi – Founder & CEO of Mukuru Clean Stoves, a 2022 Earthshot Prize Winner dedicated to advancing clean energy solutions and fighting household air pollution.

• ​Sam McPherson – Partner at Itad, a global health and development expert shaping evaluation and strategy for major agencies like the Global Fund, UNICEF, and the World Bank.