Because of their proximity to communities, branches and local units are well positioned to collect and respond to people’s views on their needs and priorities and to facilitate community engagement. They are well placed to becoming the most local structure and the source of the massive grassroot network; the IFRC Network. Therefore, Branch Development can be defined as: “Work towards setting a service body (Branches and Local Units) that enables to deliver necessary action and service across the National Societies’ territory and achieving and maintaining the role of a strong Branch in order to better respond to local needs.” This Branch Development Special Event is a first step towards the new IFRC Community of Practice on Branch Development. A virtual space for branch leaders to share their own experience and support others who face similar challenges; to meet, network and learn with fellow branch leaders from all over the world.