Small, local evaluation firms bring something large firms often can't. In this post we highlight 6 things that make small local firms not just a viable choice, but often the best one.

This story is at the heart of why Hippolyt Pul and Carlisle Levine wrote their open letter to funders. Evaluators who come from — or have deep ties to — the communities they're working in can hear things that outside experts can't. Not because they use better methods, but because trust changes what people are willing to share.

During our March 2026 Gathering Space, Sara McGarraugh of the Improve Group shared the Improve Group’s experience using the Trust Triangle to strengthen relationships within a team and with clients.

During our February 2026 Gathering Space, Carlisle Levine and Hippolyt Pul of SECPI engaged Sonia Taddy-Sandino of Engage R+D in conversation about a practical tool for making authentic partnership more than just a good intention. This post captures our conversation. 

Read the highlights from our first Gathering Space on January 22, 2026.

Read the highlights from our first Gathering Space on December 4, 2025.