In 2021, as part of the Illuminate network, we (Tatiana and Rachel of The Systems Sanctuary) set out to interview funders about the needs for funders when it comes to supporting systems change in the world.

We did this to support the creation of a funder node as part of the work of Illuminate and the network. We had convened a previous funder circle called SUSI, in collaboration with a few funders and we needed to do some sense making in order to transition to the next phase.

Our Research into funding systems change

We spoke to over 25 funders, from small to large foundations, leaders working in government as well as intermediaries. We were interested in hearing their pain points and hopes.

As Illuminate gets ready to launch this work, we are keen to share these findings. In summary we found that there were 3 levels of needs in the field:

We found three groups of funders

They are categorized here below:

• Curious - What is systems change? How do I apply it to my grantees? Who else is doing this? How does it work in practice? What strategies do they use? Who should I hire to help me?

• Leading - at least two years in to leading a systems change initiative. Always interested in new methodology, but don’t patronise me. Have the war wounds from influencing internally. Want to meet others like me.

• Questioning - Should philanthropy exist? Are we making any real difference here? I’m sick of the cognitive dissonance. How can we transform the system of philanthropy itself?

Click the image below to read a Summary of our Research:

What now for The Illuminate Funder Node?

We know that funders are busy and that there are many affinity groups already out there in the world. We also know that many systems change practice leaders offer training and learning spaces. We aren't interested in duplicating what already exists, but we want to offer what Illuminate does best: connecting what exists, shining light on the edges of the field space and helping the field to advance practice in a way that centers justice and regeneration.

Moving forward, we will be offering the funder node as a meet us space, a connection to practice leaders to learn from, a peer space to grapple with the hard questions, and a go to resource for funders to find and access all the great learning opportunities out there.

Stay tuned for more!