Rethinking Aid — The Future of Funding for Global Development
Hosted by the Social Impact Hub, Blavatnik School of Government
Event Overview
The global development funding system is at a critical crossroads. As traditional donor nations pull back from official development assistance, new actors—philanthropic foundations, private investors, and emerging economies—are reshaping the future of global aid.
In 2023, foreign aid peaked at $223 billion. Yet with over $17 billion in cuts already announced, the global aid architecture is undergoing structural change. The question is no longer whether change is coming—but how we prepare for it.
This session brings together a diverse group of influential voices to explore what this transition means for vulnerable communities, frontline social ventures, and the broader development ecosystem. Together, we’ll surface ideas and strategies for building a more inclusive, accountable, and impact-driven future of aid.
Featured Contributors
Moderator
Dr. Elizabeth Kiss – Former CEO of the Rhodes Trust; Incoming President, Union College (USA)
Speakers
Francois Bonnici – Director, Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurs & Head of Foundations, World Economic Forum.
Ian Goldin - Professor of Globalisation and Development; Founding Director, Oxford Martin School; Former Vice President and Head of Policy, World Bank; Former Advisor to President Mandela and CEO of Development Bank of Southern Africa.
Christopher Adam – Professor of Development Economics and former Head of the Department of International Development at the University of Oxford, UK.
Safeena Husain – Founder, Educate Girls
What to Expect
Insights on the decline of bilateral aid and the rise of new global funders
A critical look at how private capital and philanthropic actors can (or cannot) fill the gap
Honest reflections on how to ensure equity and accountability in a shifting landscape
A conversation designed not just to diagnose problems—but to spark bold, collaborative solutions
Drinks and informal networking to deepen connections and continue the dialogue
Who Should Attend
Development practitioners and international aid professionals
Social entrepreneurs and leaders of frontline ventures
Philanthropists and funders exploring new models of capital deployment
Policy researchers, academics, and students interested in global development systems
Anyone committed to building a more resilient and equitable development future
Space is limited. RSVP now to secure your place in this timely and vital conversation.