USAID grand challenges for development meta-evaluation : final evaluation report

The report sets out the policy context for the introduction of Grand studied. Findings are presented against each of ten evaluation questions, exploring the achievements of the GCs (results, scaling, acceleration, innovation ecosystems, and catalytic effects); aspects of GC implementation (procurement and access, and the engagement of USAID Missions); and how GCs have been managed (measurement of results and cost effectiveness, and governance arrangements). The findings lead to the evaluation’s conclusions about the achievements and effectiveness of USAID’s GCs: i) that, overall, they have achieved positive results in varied sectors, many of which are likely to be sustainable, and have supported the scaling of some significant innovations; and ii) that the GC model, when implemented well, is a results-driven approach that is both effective at supporting innovations to become scale-ready and at strengthening ecosystems. The report ends with two sets of practical, actionable recommendations to strengthen GC programing: strategic recommendations for USAID policy and GC managers, and programmatic recommendations for USAID and partner GC managers. The report annexes provide additional methodological information, further supporting analysis undertaken for the evaluation on comparators, cost effectiveness, and gender and social inclusion, and evidence from the grantee survey conducted for the evaluation.