The School for Thinktankers is an opportunity to learn about the many dimensions of think tanking and to strengthen and prepare for leadership roles.
Register your early interest for the 2025 School.
What to expect
The School is a one-week programme. It is taught by current and former think tank directors and expert practitioners. You will learn with and join a community of thinktankers worldwide.
The curriculum covers five core areas:
- Governance and management
- Policy relevant research
- Communications
- Fundraising and financial management
- Monitoring, evaluation and learning
You will participate in a combination of:
- Lectures
- Group work
- Networking activities
- Site visits
Upon completing the School, you will receive a certificate of participation and join our alumni community of over 150 thinktankers worldwide.
Each year, we welcome a diverse range of thinktankers, from early/mid-career to senior leadership positions, and from research, communications, human resources, fundraising and project management roles. We also welcome policy entrepreneurs interested in setting up their think tanks.
The School for Thinktankers 2024 was delivered in partnership with Bruegel. It was also made possible through the long-standing support of the Hewlett Foundation and the Robert Bosch Foundation. Past school partners and supporters also include Southern Voice, Universidad del Pacífico, foraus, The Think Tank Hub-Geneva, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), the Think Tank Initiative, and IDRC.
Hear from former participants.
Enrique Mendizabal on why he started the School for Thinktankers
Simon Maxwell on the different dimensions of thinktanking