We help visionary leaders and organizations catalyze field-wide change.
From climate change to education – the world’s most pressing problems are too big for any one person or organization to solve alone. We help you see the bigger picture, identify the highest leverage focus areas and act where it matters most.
We have deep experience designing and mobilizing networks towards a shared goal and are excited to work with clients seeking to acheive collective impact.
In nature, everything is connected — but certain species have a much bigger impact on the health of the whole ecosystem. Scientists call these “keystone species,” and without them, everything can fall apart. The first one ever discovered was the starfish.
We’re focused on finding the “starfish” in human systems — the people, ideas, or actions that can make the biggest difference. These high-impact points are where real, lasting change begins.
A visualization of the keystone factors or “starfish” underlying the STEM teacher shortage in the US, used to shape Beyond100K’s strategy
We help you see the bigger picture, identify the highest leverage focus areas and act where it matters most.
Map The Problem
We create crowd-sourced, visual maps of complex problems that reveal root causes and show how different issues are connected. These maps give networks a full-picture view of their field, helping them understand why challenges persist and where to focus action.
Find Your Starfish
We help you identify the “keystone species” – the highest-leverage issues that, if solved, would create a domino-like impact across your entire issue ecosystem.
Design + Activate Networks
We’ll help you define a network engagement strategy, tools and tactics to fuel the field-wide action needed to achieve your goals.
Bespoke Support
We will work with you to provide the targeted support you need, including discrete research, training, facilitation, event design, coaching or other customized support.
Our Clients
Caitlin Bristol, Director of Social Innovation,
The Johnson & Johnson Center for Health Worker Innovation
“If you’re serious about making systemic change, The Starfish Institute is an incredible team. They have been amazing thought partners, bringing creative thinking and ideas grounded in both theory and first-hand experience.
They have inspired us to think differently about how we catalyze change, especially how we can leverage voices from the frontlines to create meaningful data for informed decision making.”
Get in Touch
Wherever you are in your impact journey, we look forward to hearing about your vision and how we can help you drive lasting change in the world.
The Starfish Institute is fiscally sponsored by Tides Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Please visit tides.org for additional information.
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