Making Sense of Sustainability: An Application of Ostrom’s Theory of Collective Action Towards the Development of a General Framework of Sustainability in Savings and Credit Associations Despite the widespread recognition that a majority of lower-income and rural populations across the world rely on community-based financial service providers such as savings and credit associations (SCAs), there is scarce research on when and why these local self-governing mechanisms exist sustainably and successfully in some cases and not in others. This dissertation sought to apply Ostrom’s theory of collective action towards the beginning of developing a general framework for understanding the factors driving the sustainability of SCAs. A plausibility test of the theory was conducted through structured, focused case study comparisons of three SCAs in the Philippines, finding that the theory holds. Findings from this research should contribute towards a better integration of SCAs into financial inclusion strategies. Perhaps by finally incorporating the vital player of communities, we can achieve financial access for all at a faster and more inclusive pace. Sarah is currently working in policy and practice impact with the Economic and Social Research Council.