In recent years, international development cooperation has shifted significantly towards stronger collective action and diversified resources to address global challenges, as emphasized in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Multi-stakeholder collaborations have become essential, moving beyond traditional project-based approaches. This paper explores the evolving roles of development agencies in such partnerships, highlighting their diverse functions and contributions. Through case studies the paper illustrates how development agencies like Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation play crucial roles as funders, promoters, partners, observers, knowledge managers, and facilitators. These partnerships, characterized by systemic change and innovation, offer comprehensive solutions for sustainable development, reflecting the changing landscape of development cooperation.