Funding and partnerships have always been at the heart of the EU-CORD network. Recognising the rapidly changing financial landscape many NGOs face, including our members, the Secretariat was asked to undertake a piece of research that would examine member funding trends, strategies, and perspectives to spark a conversation about how we, as EU-CORD, can pivot and adapt to these evolving challenges and opportunities.
We discussed the report at our November 2024 General Assembly, which brought together fifty participants—CEOs and funding specialists across the network.
Insights from the Funding Study
The study combined in-depth data analysis with reflections from members, offering a comprehensive view of current funding dynamics. It examined trends across diverse income streams, including private supporters, institutional donors, foundations, and corporate sources. Members were also asked to reflect on the geopolitical shifts shaping donor priorities and changes in geographic and thematic funding trends.
The research underscored the need for a multi-faceted approach to securing financial sustainability.
Key future work priorities include improving access to funding opportunities, strengthening civil society partnerships, supporting organisational fundraising efforts, enhancing advocacy and networking, and promoting collaboration through consortia. Members also appreciated our new “funding lens” initiative, which helps fundraisers identify funding trends by analysing policies and reports in the EU space. Additionally, there was a clear request for increased sharing of insights on broader funding trends.
Driving Innovation and Collaboration
Discussions at the assembly highlighted the critical importance of innovation, collaboration, and preparedness in responding to the evolving financial ecosystem. While the network will continue to inform members about EU financing trends, there was strong interest in working together to explore new funding streams. Areas of particular focus include:
- Social Impact Bonds and Impact Investing: Innovative funding mechanisms that align financial returns with social outcomes.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Strengthening ties with the private sector to diversify funding sources.
- ESG Alignment: Exploring opportunities linked to Environmental, Social, and Governance principles to attract sustainable investments.
Member-Led Learning: A Key Outcome
A central outcome of the General Assembly was a renewed commitment to member-led learning initiatives. These initiatives will empower members to share expertise, co-develop solutions, and foster a collaborative environment for continuous improvement.
Collaboration is key to translating these ideas into action. As one participant noted:
‘We need to be generous with our time and experise to make this happen’
Looking Ahead
While challenges remain, the General Assembly demonstrated the network’s shared commitment to navigating these changes together. Through generosity, ambition, and collaboration, we are better equipped to secure sustainable funding and advance our mission in an increasingly complex world. The Funding and Partnerships community will take this work forward, and members are encouraged to engage in the groups that will be set up to explore these ideas further.
The ‘Funding Shifts and Challenges’ report is available to EU-CORD members as a summary and a detailed report; don’t hesitate to contact the secretariat if you haven’t received your copy.
