“…all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter their color; equal in importance no matter their texture.”
Maya Angelou
About the Coalition
The Institute for Economic Evolution leads a coalition of professionals dedicated to shifting economics into a new paradigm through design economics. The coalition weaves together varied perspectives, models, and practices, bringing work that once ran on separate tracks into a shared fabric that multiplies its impact. What holds that fabric together is alignment with the three tenets of design economics: acknowledging change, embracing creativity, and cultivating literacy.
Why Threads
In a passage on racism in Wouldn’t Take Nothing for My Journey Now (1993), Maya Angelou wrote:
“We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter their color; equal in importance no matter their texture.”
We honor her meaning first. Her words also describe this coalition: many kinds of work, each equal in value, held together by the three tenets of design economics.
Who We Are
Our coalition brings together:
- Academics exploring interdisciplinary design-based approaches to economic challenges
- Social sector professionals implementing evidence-based models in communities
- Business leaders designing sustainable and holistic human-centered enterprises
- Thought leaders advancing fresh perspectives on economic systems through engaging narratives
We believe economics must adapt to serve humanity and our environment, moving past outdated frameworks that restrict rather than nurture human potential.
What We Do
Coalition members work together across sectors to create real change:
- Build Economic Literacy – Make economics easier to understand through clear content for communities, businesses, and decision-makers
- Connect Businesses with Communities – Help companies apply their innovative approaches to address real community needs
- Host Virtual Roundtables – Bring together coalition members to share insights, solve problems, and develop practical approaches to economic challenges
- Share Success Stories – Collect and highlight examples of design economics working in the real world
- Promote the Three Tenets – Spread awareness of acknowledging change, embracing creativity, and cultivating literacy as foundations for economic evolution
The Institute for Economic Evolution supports these activities by providing technology, staff assistance, networking events, and helpful resources—turning conversations into action.
Start the Conversation
By joining the Design Economics Coalition, you’ll connect with others working to create more adaptive, inclusive economic systems. Together, we’re building momentum for approaches that acknowledge the evolution of social systems, embrace interdisciplinary creativity, and cultivate widespread economic understanding.
The future of economics needs your unique perspective. Complete the form below to start a conversation and become part of our growing coalition.