Innovative Capacity Strengthening for A Resilient Future in the Global South

This synthesis examined how capacity strengthening (CS) for climate adaptation and resilience has been implemented across the Global South through 17 Climate Adaptation and Resilience (CLARE) Program supported initiatives and targeted activities delivered by the CLARE Capacity Strengthening Hub. Using research for impact lens and a case study approach, the study drew on internal reports, learning briefs, evaluation summaries, and facilitator reflections. The data was analysed thematically and descriptively to examine how capacity efforts were designed, delivered, and targeted. The findings indicate that CS initiatives tackled technical, relational, and systemic capacity areas, employing various delivery methods. Virtual formats were predominant, followed by in-person workshops and customized advisory support. The primary audience consisted of researchers, especially those in early and mid-career stages, although program leads and senior experts were also involved. Key themes that received the most focus included research-to-policy engagement, gender equity and inclusion, collaborative partnerships, and innovation labs. While the initiatives demonstrated strong commitment to co-production and inclusive facilitation, engagement with grassroots actors and more complex, intersecting dimensions of equity were less prominent. The analysis provides a results-driven view of how adaptation and resilience capacity has been strengthened through CLARE-supported initiatives and offers practical insights to guide future investment and program design in climate resilience across the Global South.