Reintroducing Innovation

Over the last decades, innovation has become intrinsic to the not-for-profit sector.

The not-for-profit sector exists in a complex and constantly evolving environment. As such, not-for-profit organizations need to adapt, learn and develop innovative solutions to meet changing realities. Funders play an integral role in creating the conditions that lead to innovative solutions.

Foundations are in a unique position to support innovation and activities that otherwise would not have surfaced or been implemented:

Funders are able to convene stakeholders for the purposes of learning, discovery, and knowledge sharing.
Funders may have the flexibility to support resources and activities that require time and space for people and organizations to think and create.
Funders are able to support innovation, apart from providing dollars, by sharing expertise, brokering relationships with other funders, and providing other in kind resources.

The literature around innovation reveals various frameworks for supporting and engaging in innovation. While each of the frameworks was different in terms of approach, five common themes appear:

• Creating a Culture of Innovation
• Collaboration and Diversity of Perspectives
• Planning
• Experimenting and Learning
• Sharing Knowledge

Funders can play a catalytic role for innovation in the not-for-profit sector. Beyond the ability to provide monetary resources and backing to great ideas, funders can support innovation by creating the environment and conditions for innovation to take hold in the sector.

To find out more about how funders can support innovation in the not-for-profit sector, please read this literature review.