How We Work

Research that implements

IRSA isn't just a think tank. We develop theory, build tools, and stay involved through implementation. The work isn't done until the system works.

Theory with teeth

Our papers aren't abstract. Each framework is designed for implementation—with tools, metrics, and case studies that prove it works.

Diagnosis before design

We don't assume the solution. We start by identifying whether the problem is structural or execution—then match the right intervention.

Implementation, not just advice

We stay involved through deployment. Theory without implementation is academic. We care whether it actually works.

Ways to Engage

From self-serve exploration to deep implementation partnerships—find the level that fits your needs.

Self-Serve

Explore freely

Use our explainers, diagnostics, dashboards, and papers at your own pace. Everything is open access.

Plain-language explainers
Self-assessment diagnostics
Interactive dashboards
21+ working papers
Start exploring

Advisory

Apply to your context

We help you understand how our frameworks apply to your specific situation. Workshops, reviews, and strategic guidance.

Framework application sessions
Structural diagnosis reviews
Strategic recommendations
Team workshops
Get in touch

Research Partnership

Co-develop new work

Collaborate on new papers, case studies, or framework extensions. Your context becomes part of the research program.

Co-authored papers
Case study development
Framework refinement
Academic collaboration
Propose collaboration

Implementation

Build together

We help design and pilot regenerative systems. From architecture through deployment, we stay involved until it works.

System architecture design
Pilot program development
Implementation support
Iteration and refinement
Discuss a pilot

Our Process

When we work with partners, we follow a consistent methodology across all three domains.

Phase 1
Diagnose

We start by identifying structural issues—not execution failures. Our diagnostics reveal whether problems stem from architecture or implementation.

Key question: Is this a structural problem or an execution problem?

Institutional diagnosticsFragility assessmentR* Index
Phase 2
Design

We apply relevant frameworks based on what the diagnosis reveals. Capital problems get PSC. AI problems get SGAI. Institutional problems get INA.

Key question: Which architectural intervention fits?

Framework selectionArchitecture blueprintsCase study matching
Phase 3
Deploy

We build prototypes, run pilots, and iterate. Theory without deployment is academic. We stay involved until the system works.

Key question: Does it work in practice?

Pilot designImplementation supportMeasurement frameworks

Not every engagement uses all phases. Sometimes you need diagnosis only. Sometimes you're ready for implementation. We adapt to where you are.

What We Bring

Years of research distilled into usable tools, frameworks, and evidence.

Research

  • 21+ working papers
  • 3 domain streams
  • Peer-reviewed methodology

Tools

  • PSC Calculator
  • R* Index
  • 10+ diagnostics
  • Interactive dashboards

Frameworks

  • PSC for capital
  • SGAI for AI
  • INA for institutions
  • Cross-domain synthesis

Evidence

  • Global case studies
  • Historical precedents
  • Impact data
  • Comparative analysis

Who We Work With

Our frameworks apply across sectors. The common thread: organisations facing structural challenges that execution alone can't solve.

Foundations & Funders

Rethinking grantmaking for long-horizon impact

Community foundationsFamily officesImpact investors

Governments & Policy

Designing systems that survive political cycles

Development agenciesMunicipal governmentsPolicy labs

Institutional Leaders

Building organisations that remember their purpose

NFP executivesUniversity leadersHealthcare systems

AI & Tech Teams

Building alignment infrastructure, not just constraints

AI safety teamsGovernance designersPlatform architects

Climate & Environment

Funding 50-year problems with 5-year capital

Climate fundsConservation trustsTransition finance

Researchers

Exploring regenerative systems across disciplines

AcademicsThink tanksResearch institutions

Ready to start?

Whether you want to explore on your own or discuss a partnership, there's an entry point for you.

Or read about the intellectual foundations