Practices of Successful Learning Networks Paper

This resource is for USAID staff and implementing partners who may be interested in designing, implementing and participating in learning networks. The purpose of this report is to:

• Characterize elements of a learning network, drawing on USAID experiences with learning networks supported through the Knowledge-Driven Microenterprise Development (KDMD) project, and provide the rationale for why USAID or other donor institutions should invest in creating a learning network
• Provide a description of practices that contribute to the success of a learning network, and share practical lessons and examples from the Growing Organizational Value Chain Excellence (GROOVE) Learning Network that can be used by those who are considering whether to implement a learning network approach or who are currently participating in a learning network.
• Set the stage for continued exploration and learning about learning networks as this approach is used by others and adapted to different settings.

This document is one component of a broader set of resources that can be accessed from USAID Learning Lab's online Learning Networks Resource Center. This center provides information about the six phases of learning networks supplemented with practical resources from the GROOVE Learning Network.