Understanding organisations led by and for their communities

The New Economics Foundation shares research into the struggles faced by by-and-led-for organisations, and how funding processes can be improved to make them more accessible, inclusive and connected to communities and the organisations who support them.

In this session, we will share findings from our 10-month co-produced research project, led by the New Economics Foundation, funded by Lloyds Bank Foundation and Legal Education Foundation. The research, ‘Understanding by and for organisations’, builds on previous Lloyds Bank Foundation research into the ‘value of small in a big crisis’. 

The aims of the project were to develop understanding of the challenges, opportunities and complexities faced by small – often overlooked – organisations run by and for the communities they serve. We want to share key learnings about the value of this approach but also the complexities of it, including resourcing and navigating complex sensitive relationships at challenging junctures. We utilised a participatory approach which centred capacity building, network strengthening and understanding the specificities of differing contexts on the ground.

In this session, attendees will gain unique insight into the struggles faced by organisations as narrated by them including analysis on geographical and sectoral similarities and differences. We also share tangible examples of how funding processes can be improved to make them more accessible, inclusive and connected to communities and the organisations who support them.  

The Festival is open to all members of London Funders. Unless otherwise specified, we are not able to accept bookings from non-members. If you’re a funder and interested in becoming a London Funders member, please find out more here.

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