Funders+Guide+Support+&+Catalyze+NWs



= Part 3: Support and Catalyze Networks =

Grantmakers are in a special position to connect leaders in a field, catalyze action, and strengthen existing social webs. They have a view of activity across their field, they typically have a corresponding social network, and their influence as a funder incents people to come to the table. It’s natural that foundations are frequent initiators of network activity. Yet, many grantmakers don’t see themselves as full participants in the networks they catalyze or support. They want to broker the connections but they don’t want to be at the center of the network. They don’t want to be a gatekeeper for information flows and relationships, nor do they want to be the primary source of funding. So, when should a grantmaker catalyze or foster a network and how to do so most effectively?

**//When to catalyze and invest in networks? When doesn’t it make sense?//**

//** How can foundations support networks **//


 * A discussion of the different activities that a funder might support (e.g. network weaving, SNA) and how this shifts depending on the network’s lifecycle / needs
 * Leadership development specific to networks (draw on and reference Leadership Learning Community study)
 * critical role of funders in providing "glue money" to enable grantees to spend time nurturing networks, convening, focusing on process. Grantees often tell us how difficult it can be to raise money to work in and through networks, because they feel under pressure to demonstrate their individual organizations' impact. (Kathy)
 * A deeper dive into building network weaving capacity (might be a sidebar).
 * What is a “network weaver”? What does a weaver do? (link back to previous section on working with a network mindset)
 * What are the challenges around supporting network weaving (e.g. where to house, how to frame the work) and tips for overcoming these challenges.
 * Different models for supporting network weaving (e.g. individual, multiple people, cohort model)

**//What roles can foundations play in networks?//**


 * E.g. sponsor, catalyst, coordination, coach, weaver, assessor

How should the networks foundations fund be staffed? How does being a participant in networks affect staff/the network?SMCA
 * // How should a foundation’s networks work be staffed? What skills and characteristics are needed for this work? //**
 * // Risks and exit strategies //**

**//Sidebar: Additional Resources//**

Go back to the Funders Guide Preliminary Outline.