What do we mean by “Buy-in”?

“Buy-in” is a word used often in nonprofit and systems spaces to mean “acceptance of and willingness to actively support and participate in something.” (Merriam Webster) Buy-in can be important to the success of initiatives. For example, if you try to launch a new programme that the organisation’s frontline staff do not support, they are unlikely to give it a full effort and commitment. If you take time to get their buy-in first (through education, discussion, and addressing their fears or concerns), the initiative is more likely to benefit from their enthusiastic efforts.

Recommended citation: “Buy-in.” Movement Glossary. Collective Threads Initiative, 2026. https://www.collectivethreads.org (date accessed).