From Pilot to Policy: Mechanisms to Drive Sustained Government Action
Event Description
Many organizations develop promising solutions, generate strong evidence, and demonstrate impact at small scale. Yet far fewer succeed in translating these successes into lasting policy change and system-wide adoption.
This discussion focuses on the real-world mechanics of moving from pilot to policy. What does it actually take to influence government decisions, shape political will, and embed solutions into national systems and budgets? Where do efforts break down when scaling from small programs to large public systems?
We will explore practical tactics for policy change, drawing on the experiences of organizations that have successfully navigated this transition. This includes the role of narratives, media, and advocacy, as well as how data, AI, and lived experience can be used to inform more effective and inclusive policymaking.
The session will also examine how financing and political priorities shape what gets adopted, sustained, or abandoned, particularly in areas like community health and public services. Grounded in practice, this conversation will focus on how to move beyond one-off initiatives toward durable, system-level change.
Speakers
Eleni Stamou is Researcher & Policy Advisor at the Education Equity Initiative, advancing evidence-driven approaches to inequality and education.
Jaspreet Singh is Co-Founder of ICAAD, advancing human rights through advocacy, policy, and technology.
Sabeena Abbasi is Chief Program Officer at Taleemabad, advancing education systems and foundational learning in Pakistan.
Sebastian Salomon-Ballada is Principal Advisor at the Behavioural Insights Team, leading international research on social impact.
Soleine Scotney is Co-CEO of the Financing Alliance for Health, specializing in health financing and systems strengthening.
Frank Smith is Strategy and Business Development Lead at Transform Health.
Discussion Questions
What are the most effective strategies for turning proven pilots into adopted public policy?
Where do efforts typically break down when moving from small-scale success to system-wide implementation?
How can narratives, data, and lived experience be used to influence policy more effectively?
What financing and political conditions are needed to sustain policy change over time?
Location & access
Accessibility matters deeply to us, and we do our best to choose spaces that reflect that. That said, some of our Oxford venues are in historic buildings without lifts. This room is unfortunately not accessible for wheelchair users, those with mobility challenges, or anyone needing step-free access.