Programmes
Programmes provide a variety of outputs, whether investment, grans, blended finance, mentoring, training, equipment or access to expertise. How is the form of support provided agreed upon, and who are the chosen beneficiaries?
A key focus of the Oxentia Foundation is to explore what makes foundations work. We are carrying out ongoing research to better understand how foundations deliver on their mission and goals effectively. Are there common characteristics for effective practice internationally and across operations, and what can be replicated?
We are doing this research to improve the efficiencies in how foundations deliver on their mission. We will share our findings through publications and in-person events, and we will look to address new challenges as the sector evolves.
Using Impact as the leveller, we measure depth of impact, breadth of reach, and duration of impact to normalise the vast range of foundation interventions, allowing us to measure the efficiency of various practices across five areas:
Programmes provide a variety of outputs, whether investment, grans, blended finance, mentoring, training, equipment or access to expertise. How is the form of support provided agreed upon, and who are the chosen beneficiaries?
Building effective partnerships to deliver programmes is essential, but which relationships are the most critical? How much time is spent developing relationships with funding agencies and with other foundations? Where are other relationships with governments and regulators developed and meaningfully maintained?
Scaling a foundation’s activities relies upon efficient operational management. Is there a typical size of workforce in a foundation, what is the split of outsourced activities? To what extent do foundations rely upon external partners to deliver programmes?
Aligning future plans for a foundation requires a clear understanding of where it can have the most impact, whilst staying aligned to its mission. How are new funding ideas selected? How does a foundation know what the most pressing needs of its beneficiaries are?
Deciding on a funding mechanism, whether direct cash grants and loans, or indirect access to expertise and equipment is a fundamental question for every programme. Are there proven optimal funding mechanisms for a particular programme? What is the funding duration and structure?