Funding Systems Change
To address the social & environmental challenges we are facing, we need to find new ways of funding systems change. As someone who has fundraised for social innovation projects since the age of 16, I have eventually come to see challenges in the funding world, and have been working on the topic of funding systems change since 2019.
In summer 2021, a coalition of foundations and changemakers in Switzerland decided to embark on a one-year co-learning journey led by Ashoka Switzerland and collaboratio helvetica. They shared insights and best practices, and began designing and testing prototypes that could shift funding practices in Switzerland towards supporting systemic solutions. For more information on the collective exploration process, please refer to The Philanthropist.
In working groups, they produced a glossary and two creative and innovative tools for funders to encourage self-reflection on their funding practices. These tools are now ready to be shared and are intended to inform foundations’ work in Switzerland and abroad.
You can find all three tools and more information about this project on the website of collaboratio helvetica.
Access the funding mechanism spiderweb here.
In the years since, I have been supporting foundations in better understanding their ecosystems and develop systems change strategies, as well as supporting social entrepreneurs, changemakers and large NGOs in diversifying and improving their funding situation.
You’re welcome to contact me if you would be interested in finding out more or exploring working together towards funding systems change.
