Funding Movement POD

Introduction

The Funding Movements POD is focused on developing strategies to better understand and support grassroots movements. We aim to focus on several key priorities:

  • Addressing funding constraints and identifying ways to overcome them,
  • Advancing narrative change to shift donor perceptions of movements beyond traditional frameworks,
  • Dismantling decision-making power structures, and
  • Tackling bureaucratic violence, such as overly competitive and burdensome processes that hinder movement building.

2025 Session

Discovery Meeting

Focus of the meeting
During this first “Discovery meeting”, the group focused on understanding how philanthropy can truly be in service of  grassroots movements, stressing the urgency of dismantling bureaucratic barriers and aligning donor strategies with the radical, transformative goals of these movements. In the Breakout conversations, participants reflected on what the aspects they wish to focus on in the continuation of the work and how we can leverage the knowledge of this group.

It was underscored the need for “alchemy”—translating the deep, systemic aspirations of grassroots organizers into actionable terms for funders—while fostering authentic collaboration and solidarity to ensure impactful, justice-oriented funding.

Together with the organizers we will give an overview of the history behind this organizing space as well as provide space for the participants to understand together the focus of this POD moving forward.

NB: This is a members – only space. If you’d like to join the network, reach out to Martina at martina@edgefunders.org

Video Recording 

Update Meeting - November 19th

During the meeting, participants reflected on their understanding of movements, emphasizing the concept of movements as dynamic processes aimed at fostering spaces for collective power-building, generating new knowledge, and crafting innovative narratives through creative language. The discussion also highlighted a recurring challenge: many funders struggle to fully grasp the complexities of movements, often expecting an oversimplified narrative of social change without acknowledging the constraints movements face due to limited and restricted funding.

The conversation then shifted to refining the direction and purpose of the POD. It was concluded that the POD should be action-oriented, focusing not only on organizing around singular events but also on creating sustained support for movements throughout their journey. This includes offering accompaniment and preparation before, during, and after major advocacy opportunities. Such readiness is essential for movements to effectively engage with institutional and international platforms and advocate for their needs. Additionally, the idea of organizing movement-centered events was proposed to further this goal.

Looking ahead, the POD will convene again in January 2026 to continue advancing its work and to strengthen collective efforts in support of movements.

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