IESI is governed by a Board of Directors, which provides advice on the directions of the Institute and on the development and implementation of the its work program. IESI also has an Advisory Board, which provides advice to the Executive Director and assists in fostering partnerships with government departments and departments, educational institutions and private-sector entities.
IESI works closely with experts from other policy organizations and networks. The Institute also participates in consortial research projects, working mostly with such project partners as universities and institutes but also with business associations, ministries, and community organizations. These partnerships establish a net of contacts which is being continuously fostered and has proved useful on many occasions.