Episode 14: Bridging Theory and Practice: The Vision and Action Plan of the ISTR Research for Practice Affinity Group

Research for Practice, nonprofit innovation, bridging theory and practice, pracademics, ISTR, applied nonprofit research, researcher–practitioner collaboration In this episode of Making a Difference: A Research for Practice Podcast, we unpack Bridging Theory and Practice: The Vision and Action Plan of the ISTR Research for Practice Affinity Group, a foundational article from the Journal of Nonprofit Innovation. This conversation explores why the gap between nonprofit research and real-world practice persists—and what it actually takes to close it. Drawing on global perspectives from scholars and practitioners involved in the International Society for Third Sector Research (ISTR), the episode highlights the growing “pracademic” movement, the value of co-created knowledge, and concrete strategies for making research more accessible, relevant, and usable for nonprofit leaders. From matchmaking researchers with practitioners to rethinking publishing, funding, and training models, this episode offers a roadmap for turning research into action. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, researcher, funder, or practitioner working on the ground, this episode invites you to rethink how research is produced, shared, and applied—and how collaboration across sectors can lead to stronger impact and more equitable outcomes.