The world – and the most vulnerable communities in particular – is facing heightened fragility due to COVID-19, extreme climate events, conflict and protracted crises. The international aid system’s responses are insufficient to meet the challenges and ineffective in understanding and addressing local demands. The pandemic created new opportunities to change how international actors work with local partners. The increased reliance on local organizations and local staff showcased that a more locally led and locally empowered response is not only possible but also imperative. Better preparedness for future shocks will require true innovation and an evolution of roles in the international aid system. Applying lessons learned from the COVID-19 response, the Global Future Council on the New Agenda for Fragility and Resilience will aim to provide guidance and support in implementation to international humanitarian and development actors as well as to the private sector in its work to improve support to local actors and facilitate responses to strengthen long-term community resilience.