Terms we use

We know some of the language we use in this programme can be hard to understand and open to interpretation.

Below are definitions of how we use some key terms on our website and in our funding documents.

Systems Change

Getting to the root of a problem and aiming to change the structures, policies, or mindsets that created it. Rather than treating symptoms, systems change tackles the underlying causes to shift the way things work long-term.

Economic Systems Change

A fundamental rethinking of how the economy is structured, governed, and who it serves. It’s about reshaping the entire system, not just fixing parts of it.

Narrative Change

Shifting the dominant stories and ideas people hold about the economy: what it is, who it’s for, and what’s possible. Changing narratives can help unlock new ways of thinking and acting.

Real Economy

The part of the economy where goods are made and services provided—things like farming, transport, healthcare, education. It’s different from the financial sector, which focuses on things like stocks, bonds, and speculation.

Power Dynamics

How power is distributed and exercised. This includes who makes decisions, whose voices are heard, and who benefits (or doesn’t) from the current system.

Root Causes / Upstream Work

Addressing the deeper reasons a problem exists. Looking upstream at the origins of a challenge, rather than dealing only with its immediate effects.

Financial Infrastructure

The systems and institutions (like banks, regulators, central banks, and investment bodies) that keep the financial system running, and which can help or hinder change.

Shadow Banking

Financial activity that happens outside the traditional banking system often with less oversight. This can include hedge funds, private equity, and complex investment vehicles.

Capital Markets

Places where money is raised for investment, like stock markets and bond markets. They play a major role in shaping how money flows and for whose benefit.

Anchor Organisations

Organisations that play a central or stabilising role in a sector. In our context, these are long-standing, trusted organisations that work collaboratively and have relationships, resources, or knowledge that others in the sector rely on.

Core Support

Flexible funding that supports the overall running and sustainability of an organisation and is not tied to a specific project or output.

Intersectional Approach

Recognising that people’s identities and experiences (e.g. gender, race, class, disability) overlap in ways that create unique barriers or advantages. An intersectional approach sees the whole picture.

Systemic Approach

An approach that looks at how all parts of a system interact. Rather than just solving one problem, it considers how issues are connected and how changes in one area can ripple out to others.

Public Interest (in policy or finance)

Focusing on what benefits society as a whole, rather than serving private or commercial interests.