What's New

News and updates from BCSDN and the region

GFCF Report: Community, Women’s, and Feminist Philanthropy

The Global Fund for Community Foundations (GFCF) report explores the intersections between community philanthropy, women’s philanthropy, and feminist philanthropy. Focused on empowering marginalized communities and addressing systemic inequities, the study highlights shared values of inclusivity, solidarity, and rights-based approaches. These philanthropic models mobilize resources, foster collaboration, and challenge traditional power structures to improve women’s and

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How Nonprofit and Foundation Communications Can Build Community

Foundations and nonprofits can use communication to foster community, trust, and connection in an era of social division. The Barr Foundation’s journey highlights a shift from anonymity to embracing transparency, mission-driven storytelling, and values-led actions. Central practices include prioritizing relationships and trust, aligning words with meaningful actions, and empowering partners through communications capacity building. By

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New Book Published on the INGO Problem: Power, Privilege, and Renewal

The recently published book “The INGO Problem: Power, Privilege, and Renewal” by Deborah Doane examines the dominance of INGOs in the civil society ecosystem. Despite controlling vast resources, INGOs often marginalize local actors, relegating them to sub-contractor roles or competing by establishing their own “local” branches. However, INGOs face increasing scrutiny and decline due to

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Unfunded Accountability in Localization: Part 1

During the first part of a two-part series of blogs about accountability in the non-profit sector and its localization with a focus of helping funders gain a better understanding, Jean Scrimgeour explores the critical role of accountability in the nonprofit sector and its connection to the localization agenda. As funders advocate for more official development

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ICSC Annual Global Perspectives Conference: Truth, Trust, Technology (26 November, Online)

The ICSC’s Annual Online “Global Perspectives” Conference will address the increasing complexity and distrust in today’s world. It invites participants worldwide to explore the critical role of CSOs in uniting communities and amplifying vulnerable voices. Amid the rise of misinformation and rapid technological change, attendees will engage in discussions on how CSOs can restore trust

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Civic Charge 2025: Accountability Lab Accelerator for Social Accountability Change Agents

Civic Charge 2025 is an innovative online accelerator launched by Accountability Lab to support social accountability change agents eager to enhance their governance initiatives. Building on the success of the Accountability Incubator, which has empowered over 300 young activists across 12 countries since 2015, this program fosters a global learning community for individuals already engaged

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Save the Date: BCSDN Virtual Event – Countering Foreign Agents Laws and Narratives with Dynamic Accountability (6 & 8 November)

As part of Global Accountability Week (GAW) 2024, we are pleased to invite you to a regional event to discuss the growing concern how accountability is used as a premises to restrict the civic space and portray civil society as foreign agents attempting to destabilize the country. This two-part event will explore practices in Hungary,

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Strengthening Civil Society: The Unseen Battle for the Future of NGOs and CBOs

The 2023 #ShiftThePower Global Summit in Bogotá underscored the need for a paradigm shift in how NGOs and community-based organizations (CBOs) are funded and supported. Traditional transactional relationships between funders and grantees are being challenged, as organizations push for flexible, unrestricted funding and non-monetary support. Key issues explored include the importance of strategic planning, the

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#ShiftThePower Fellowship: Building Power Together and Creating Space for Change

The #ShiftThePower Fellowship initiated by the Global Fund for Community Foundations (GFCF) aims to explore issues of power and build networks among change-makers. Launched to foster relationships and deepen the #ShiftThePower movement, the fellowship emphasizes community philanthropy and participatory practices. The first two cohorts engaged in discussions and reflections on vital topics, including capacity building

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OECD Report: Pathways Towards Effective Locally Led Development Co-operation

The OECD synthesis report highlights the growing commitment of providers to support locally-led development, where local actors play a key role in framing, designing, delivering, learning, and ensuring accountability. The report offers a comprehensive overview of these efforts, examining how provider systems—through policies, financing mechanisms, partnerships, and management processes—can either enhance or limit local agencies.

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CHS Alliance is Building a Safer and More Accountable Aid System

The CHS Alliance is committed to creating a safer and more accountable aid system by addressing power imbalances that can lead to sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment (SEAH). Key initiatives include the PSEAH Index, which helps organizations assess their policies and practices for protecting vulnerable people, and the Harmonized Reporting Scheme, which improves transparency and

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