Being well-networked is one of six key characteristics, that through our work and research with charities, we have identified as pivotal to an organisation’s potential to be resilient.
A well-networked charity forms strong, purposeful relationships with a wide range of stakeholders – other charities, donors, policymakers, service users and local communities. These relationships empower charities to collaborate, share resources, advocate for change and have a greater overall impact.
Why building a strong network matters
A well-networked charity is plugged into the broader charitable sector, staying informed about external developments, funding opportunities and policy changes. This is important because, as recent CAF research into charity resilience found, networking is about more than gathering contacts. It is about building mutually beneficial relationships that can help you foster collaboration and innovation, with 62% of leaders reporting that partnerships have led to innovative solutions or new ways of working.
In addition, our research underlines how a charity’s external awareness strengthens its network. Nearly 70% of charity leaders agree that staying informed about sector trends and policy changes is crucial for their organisations’ success.
Here are three practical ways in which you can build and expand your charity’s network.
1. Start with your strategy
Networking requires time and effort, which can be challenging for smaller charities. However, investing in building connections can open doors to new funding and support, ensuring your charity has the financial backing to grow and succeed.
The crucial first step is to develop a stakeholder engagement strategy. So, identify your major stakeholders, set clear engagement goals and prioritise relationships, where you can help each other.
Your strategy will then help you to identify the time and resources you will need to dedicate to achieving your goals.
2. Empower your team to connect
Internal silos can make it harder to foster external relationships. Yet, networking creates opportunities for knowledge sharing and collaborative problem-solving, often leading to innovative solutions.
To tackle this, promote internal collaboration and ask colleagues to focus on external engagement. This includes encouraging team members to join sector-specific networks or forums as part of their roles, to share knowledge, promote best practice, and build connections.
By involving your wider team, you can both reinforce your charity’s external networks and empower individuals with your organisation to develop their expertise, in support of their work and career progression.
3. Build trusted partnerships
Some charities approach partnerships with caution, worried it might divert focus and resources from their core mission. However, the right collaboration can enhance your impact. Partnerships with respected organisations lend credibility, boosting trust with donors and supporters.
A strong network also provides vital resources and advice during challenging times, helping your charity weather crises more effectively.
By establishing relationships with policymakers and influencers, you can also amplify your organisation’s voice and advocate for change far wider than you can alone. The aim is to be selective and transparent in your partnerships, ensuring alignment with your values and building partnerships that deliver shared benefits for those involved. Seek out opportunities to collaborate on joint campaigns or co-funded projects that drive lasting impact.
As a tip, social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook can help you stay connected with your network, share updates and engage with a broader audience.
Ready, steady, network!
A well-networked charity actively prioritises long-term resilience and influence in its collaborations. Whether partnering with others for joint advocacy efforts, accessing funding opportunities through philanthropic networks or staying ahead of sector trends by learning from peers. Ultimately, strong networks are vital for driving lasting change and ensuring your charity’s continued success.
Building your charity’s resilience
This is one of a series of six articles that give charity leaders ideas on how to build the resilience of their organisations. Read the next article on being externally aware.