Criterion’s theory of change is a transformative process that deconstructs existing assumptions and authorities, creates space where new possibilities emerge, and empowers people to act in new ways. These changes in how we think and how we act eventually affect institutions and broader systems.
New ways of engaging or transforming financial systems flow from open-ended research that includes diverse voices and insights from unexpected quarters. Breaking out of old frames creates the freedom to imagine new possibilities. Naming the “reframes” enables people to imagine and live into new visions.
Criterion engages with partners in concrete actions that show how ideas that emerge from cultural reframes might work in practice. Such demonstrations help others begin to imagine how they could use finance to create the social change they want to see.
Criterion uses its broad network and multiple forms of communication to introduce change makers and the wider public to the power of using finance as a tool for social change. This amplification both strengthens Criterion’s power to use finance to create social change but also provides aircover for change makers making bold moves.
Criterion empowers change makers to believe that they can have an impact on financial systems by providing concrete, often low-risk opportunities for them to begin to experiment and experience the satisfaction of making change on a small scale.
Criterion trains and supports a growing cadre of leaders with the competence and the confidence to use the systems of finance as a tool to effect social change. This cadre of leaders are then able to design and execute social change strategies using finance. Criterion inspires, teaches, equips, enables, and empowers them.
Criterion engages with institutions that are ready and willing to build on our momentum, in order to leverage their influence and extend our reach. We depend on aligned institutions to implement the new possibilities we demonstrate and to steward the leaders whom we have invited and equipped to use finance for social change. As institutions change, they put pressure on larger systems to change.
Our work depends on an ever-expanding community of team members, advisors, donors, and other partners who help us demonstrate our theory of change and ultimately achieve our mission. Learn more about how you can become more engaged in our work.
Invitations to Engage