Transition can be defined as the transfer of financial, leadership and programmatic responsibilities for a health program from a donor to a recipient, according to a pre-defined plan. The current importance of transition is framed by an increased focus on sustainability and country capacity to lead and manage programs as program priorities change, and external funding either declines or ends completely.

Transition and/or graduation from donor support are often portrayed as a daunting prospect, filled with uncertainty, and threatening the outcomes attained in a particular program area with donor funding.