We are changing the way we fund mental health research to increase impact of investments globally. International collaboration is needed to balance investments between projects that address the current burden of mental health challenges and those that are committed to long-term development of scientific knowledge, and potential cures. The IAMHRF is the only forum where mental health research funders from around the world can meet in person and discuss key topics, trends, and shared opportunities and challenges in the sector. By bringing global mental health research funders together, the IAMHRF facilitates knowledge sharing to avoid reinventing the wheel and speed up progress. The alliance enables sub-groups of funders, many of whom are meeting each other for the first time, to collaborate on national and international initiatives. With opportunities to interact with other countries and learn from each other, the alliance is breaking down silos and encouraging members to look at mental health issues from a global perspective. Starting with a handful of members in 2010, the alliance has grown to over 20 member organizations globally with deep knowledge of the mental health sector, research funding and policy, and health innovations. The network members represent funders investing in research in high, middle, and low income countries around the world.