Cross-Sector Collaboration: Moving from Fragmentation to Real Alignment

​Event Description

Many of today’s most complex challenges require coordinated action across government, philanthropy, business, and civil society. Yet in practice, efforts remain fragmented, with interventions designed, funded, and measured in silos. The result is duplication, misalignment, and impact that struggles to sustain or scale.

This discussion explores what it takes to build effective cross-sector collaboration in today’s socio-political landscape. How can different actors align around shared goals while navigating differing incentives, timelines, and accountability structures?

We will examine both the potential and the pitfalls of cross-sector partnerships, including how to design interventions that reflect the interconnected nature of real-world problems. The session will also explore lessons from the Global South, where innovative collaboration models are emerging, and how trust, governance, and shared learning can enable more unified approaches.

Bringing together diverse perspectives, this conversation will focus on how to move from agreement on the need for collaboration to practical, aligned action that delivers long-term impact.

​Speakers

• ​Amanda MacArthur is Head of Strategic Partnerships and Communications at Nexleaf Analytics, building partnerships to strengthen digital health systems and global impact.

• ​Caitlin Augustin is Vice President of Product and Programs at DataKind, advancing data and AI solutions as digital public infrastructure for the social sector.

• ​Evan LaForge is Co-Executive Director of Access to Medicines Initiative, expanding access to contraceptives and improving maternal health outcomes in Nigeria.

• ​Tushig Gankhuyag is Co-Founder & CEO of Teach For Mongolia, advancing educational equity and leadership in underserved communities.

​Discussion Questions
Why do cross-sector efforts so often remain fragmented despite shared goals?
What does effective collaboration look like across government, philanthropy, and the private sector?
How can funding and measurement systems better support coordinated, multi-actor approaches?
What lessons can be learned from successful cross-sector collaborations in different contexts?