Independent intelligence and strategic advisory
for philanthropic capital.
Intelligence in a time of radical uncertainty
The funding of global development has been fundamentally changed in recent times. Traditional donors have retreated and the form and focus of international cooperation has shifted. At the same time, the nature of development challenges has become more complex: geo-political volatility, climate change, and long-term conflict have a compounding effect. In such a time of radical uncertainty, philanthropists and other funders of development need good information.
The sources of both intelligence and co-funding, on which many philanthropists have relied, are fast disappearing. In response, new models of partnership are needed. In this increasingly fragmented sector, leaders need to be clear and focussed on the role their organisations play and the relationships they now need to guarantee impact.
Intelligence for Development provides its clients with information that supports decision-making across this spectrum of need: from delivery partner due diligence to coalition-building with other funders. It also provides support to IFIs and delivery organisations seeking to build new relationships with philanthropic partners.
More about the Intelligence for Development service is provided below.
-
We advise foundations, family offices and development-focused institutions on funding decisions where independent verification and structured intelligence are essential.
In environments characterised by distance, fragmentation and heightened scrutiny, clarity cannot rest solely on disclosed information. We provide objective insight to support decisions that must withstand governance review and reputational consideration.
Our work combines disciplined intelligence methodologies with deep sector experience. We assess leadership credibility, validate operational capability and identify governance or integrity risks prior to the commitment of capital.
-
We are typically engaged at points of institutional significance: before substantial commitments are made, during programme expansion, or where trustees and investment committees require independent visibility beyond sponsor reporting.
Our mandates may include partner verification, leadership assessment, validation of operational and financial controls, analysis of local political dynamics and discreet reputational review.
Each engagement is structured to reflect the governance standards, fiduciary responsibilities and institutional sensitivities of those we advise.
-
We apply commercial-grade intelligence methodologies to philanthropic capital.
Operating independently of delivery partners and prevailing narratives, we undertake direct-source research and cross-border analysis to produce objective, carefully substantiated intelligence. Our reporting is designed for trustees, investment committees and senior leadership responsible for oversight and accountability.
Where mandates require broader jurisdictional reach or specialist analytical input, we draw upon GMTL’s wider intelligence capability.
The emphasis is not solely on information, but on clarity, proportionality and judgement.
-
Intelligence for Development is led by Simon Kingston, who brings over two decades of experience advising foundations, multilateral institutions and sector leaders on governance and institutional strategy.
Under his leadership, clients benefit from disciplined intelligence capability delivered with sector fluency and institutional sensitivity.
Should an initial, confidential exchange be helpful in considering a potential mandate, Simon Kingston would be pleased to engage directly and in confidence.