Participation starts with funding: Initial findings from the Changemaker programme

Halfway through the Changemaker programme, the programme management team at ‘ici. here together.’ visited all 23 funded organisations across Switzerland. Their discussions revealed which approaches had been effective in the projects and yielded helpful conclusions for participatory funding practices.

Involving volunteers effectively

Many projects have found new ways of involving volunteers more actively in their work. Low-threshold surveys proved a particularly helpful and quickly implementable way to understand needs better and highlight different perspectives.

Clearly defined contact persons, training opportunities and recognition of commitment – for example, through certificates – also boost motivation and foster a sense of duty. It became clear that volunteers do not just want to lend a hand; they want to actively shape their organisation and feel valued.

Equal collaboration requires deliberate effort 

Participation does not happen by itself. In many organisations, explicit or implicit hierarchies, language barriers and unspoken power dynamics are at work. Successful approaches begin with clearly defined roles, transparent communication and a conscious approach to power.

Some organisations have simplified the information, for example, by using pictures or symbols. This makes decision-making processes more accessible. Others are fundamentally evolving their work, moving away from traditional support services towards open spaces where participants can develop ideas together and take on responsibility.

What funding bodies can take away from this

The experience gained from the Changemaker programme so far shows that participation places demands not only on organisations but also on the funding scheme itself.

• Relationships and trust are key
  Personal support on an equal footing builds trust. It is an important prerequisite for participatory development.
• Change takes time and flexibility 
  Organisational development rarely follows a linear path. Funding approaches that allow for flexibility are often more effective than rigid targets.
• Different starting points require tailored support
  Organisations bring different resources, experiences and structures to the table. Funding schemes should take this diversity into account.
• Volunteering requires a reliable framework
  Clear structures, well-defined responsibilities and recognition ease the burden on volunteers and encourage long-term involvement. 
• Funding is a learning process, too
  Funding organisations can enhance their impact by systematically integrating dialogue, feedback and reflection into their programmes.

Photo: Visiting the FAIR association in Biel