A collaborative research initiative empowers civil society actors, bridging knowledge gaps and driving impactful policy improvements across seven countries.  

Background  

The Power of Learning program, led by Mannion Daniels Limited (MannionDaniels) and funded by the Netherlands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), is designed to strengthen civil society through collective learning and research. Working across Bangladesh, Burundi, Uganda, Sudan, Egypt, Lebanon, and Niger, the program facilitates collaboration between diplomatic missions, strategic partners, and local knowledge actors to implement the Strengthening Civil Society Policy Framework (2021-2025). With Sudan’s implementation temporarily paused since April 2023, the program’s four workstreams – Linking and Learning, Research, Electronic Learning Environment, and Communication – drive innovation and shared understanding in civil society initiatives.  

The Challenge  

CSOs in diverse contexts often lack the tailored tools and structured guidance necessary to identify knowledge gaps and integrate research findings into their work. Without inclusive participatory research frameworks, organizations struggle to address local challenges and foster sustainable growth. The need for ethical, quality-driven methodologies further complicates efforts to ensure actionable outcomes and capacity building.  

Our Approach  

Triangle partnered with MannionDaniels as the Research Implementor, employing a rigorous, mixed-method approach to ensure impactful outcomes.  

•  Comprehensive Research Design and Tool Development : Developed a detailed research framework based on CSO engagements, literature reviews, and knowledge partner feedback. Created research tools aligned with evolving questions while maintaining rigorous quality, ethics, and safeguarding standards.  
• Participatory Implementation and Capacity Building : Engaged CSOs throughout the research process—from design to review—while providing coaching and technical support to enhance their skills in conducting and applying research for local impact.  
• Knowledge Sharing and Dissemination: Facilitated the sharing of findings with a broad network of CSOs and knowledge partners, creating a feedback loop to refine methodologies and foster collective learning.  
• Ongoing Reporting and Accountability : Documented progress and insights through milestone and deliverable reports, supporting the Knowledge Manager to ensure transparency and sustained program alignment.  

Results and Impact  

• Enhanced Research Capacity: Local CSOs developed greater proficiency in designing and applying research to address context-specific challenges.  

• Broader Knowledge Sharing: Findings were disseminated across seven countries, fostering a culture of collective learning and mutual growth.  

• Policy Advancements: Research insights informed strategic policy decisions, driving sustainable, evidence-based change.  

• Improved Collaboration: Strengthened networks between CSOs, strategic partners, and knowledge actors enhanced mutual support and shared innovation.  

Looking Ahead  

The Power of Learning program demonstrates how participatory, quality-driven research can transform local challenges into scalable solutions. By embedding CSO involvement and fostering collaborative learning, Triangle and MannionDaniels have established a framework for sustainable civil society development. Triangle will continue to refine tools, support local actors, and ensure that findings contribute to meaningful, long-term impact across all participating countries.