Promising ways of funding gender equality and global health work in times of upheaval

We need to rethink who funds, who leads and how we partner. 

In these uncertain times of profound change and upheaval across the global health landscape, finding a clear path forward can feel daunting. The recent changes in donor landscapes have had a monumental and devastating impact on active health projects and critical services. Life-saving medicines, immunizations and essential care have come to a sudden halt — disrupting the lives of communities who rely on them to stay healthy and well. Local organizations, which provide the majority of direct care, have been forced to pause operations and reassess their sustainability overnight.

In this time of polycrisis, we have a collective opportunity to reimagine the future of global development funding. It is time to shift toward more resilient, diverse, locally led approaches that create sustainable transformation. In this article, members of the CanWaCH Gender Equality Working Group offer reflections and lessons from the gender space that can inform broader, cross-sector strategies for rethinking how we fund and support the impactful programs the world needs now more than ever.

Partnering with local private sector actors

Canadian international development organizations are facing financial turbulence. Historically, we have turned to Western donors and corporations, potentially missing the opportunity to engage with the vibrant ecosystem of local philanthropists and businesses in the regions we serve. 

Across Africa, Asia and Latin America, influential companies and high-net-worth individuals have strong community ties and a vested interest in long-term development. The global market for environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) is projected to reach $40 trillion by 2030, indicating that companies are looking to be evaluated beyond just their financial performance. There is a growing global demand for investments that prioritize social impact, and local actors are leading the way.

According to the Africa Wealth Report 2024, there were 135,200 individuals in Africa with a net worth of at least US$1 million. In addition, remittances to the continent totaled US$100 billion in 2023, accounting for 6% of Africa’s GDP. The combined value of high-net-worth individuals’ assets and remittances exceeded both official development assistance (ODA), which stood at US$42 billion, and foreign direct investment, which amounted to US$48 billion in 2024.

By forging genuine partnerships with local private sector actors — from community foundations and small and medium-sized enterprises to social enterprises and multinational corporations  — we can develop financial models that are more resilient and aligned with local priorities. 

Working with local governments

Local ownership is a critical pillar for sustainable development, and many countries — such as Uganda, the Philippines, Cambodia as well as several African countries — are increasingly willing to invest in their own health and development programs. While local funding may not yet match the scale of foreign aid, it offers a powerful opportunity to build accountability, prioritize national needs and foster long-term resilience.  

Amid growing cuts to international aid from major donors, governments in emerging economies are placing renewed emphasis on investing in their own health care, education and local economies. For example, Namibia’s Deputy Prime Minister has emphasized increasing national ownership over the country’s vast mining projects, aiming to ensure that the benefits of its natural resources directly support Namibian citizens. By leveraging local resources — whether through government budgets, private sector reinvestment or community-based initiatives — countries can lead development efforts that are sustainable, equitable and rooted in local priorities.

Another example is Rwanda, which has prioritized universal health coverage through its Mutuelles de Santé community-based health insurance scheme, now covering over 90% of the population. Significant investments in digital health systems and strong partnerships with local and international NGOs demonstrate a national commitment to health system strengthening.

Funding feminist leadership 

To truly advance gender equality and resilient health systems, NGOs must go beyond traditional programming and actively partner with local feminist leaders and organizations. These grassroots actors are the first responders to crises and the most deeply connected to the needs, histories and aspirations of their communities. Yet, they remain chronically underfunded and excluded from decision-making tables. 

Shifting power means shifting resources — directly funding feminist groups and trusting them to lead. This requires INGOs across all sectors to continue to act as allies and amplifiers, and to build equitable partnerships rooted in mutual accountability, transparency and shared vision. Investing in feminist movements is not only a moral imperative, it’s one of the most effective ways to deliver long-term, intersectional impact across global health and development.

Tapping into the potential of regional philanthropists, the private sector, and local governments is not just a financial strategy — it’s a pathway to deeper accountability, relevance, and impact. The future of global health and gender equality depends on our ability to reimagine who leads, who funds, and how we partner. By shifting power and resources closer to where it is needed most, we can help build systems that last.