Last Wednesday, June 5th, FindNFund organized the Doing Better event, exclusively for funds. In the recently renovated office of Turner in Leusden, representatives from more than 20 Dutch funds came together to share knowledge and gain inspiration. It was a valuable afternoon with presentations and roundtable discussions, where there was extensive discussion about how we as a sector can do better.
Highlights and insights
During the event, various important insights were gathered. Below we share some key points that emerged:
- Best practices of collaborations
There is a clear need to gather and share best practices of collaborations. What are the lessons we can learn from each other about making impact? Which applicants can we facilitate together? What requirements do we as a sector set for applicants?
- Governance and responsibility
It is essential that funds have their governance in order, in line with the guidelines of FIN (Funds in the Netherlands). The role of FindNFund in this was also discussed. How can we contribute to strengthening governance structures within funds and thus increase transparency and effectiveness?
- Measuring and realizing impact
An important theme is how funds are working on measuring and realizing impact. What are the best practices and how can we better interpret them? How do we know if the goals for which funds have provided resources are actually being achieved? The conversation also touched on the difference between measuring impact and accountability. Measuring impact goes beyond just reporting; it's about actually understanding and demonstrating the change that is intended.
Recommendations for the sector
In various small groups, attendees formulated assignments for the sector to work more effectively and efficiently. FindNFund gladly takes its responsibility as an innovator and connector and will work on some concrete recommendations:
- Share best practices of collaborations
It is crucial to collect and share best practices of collaborations. This helps funds learn from each other and collaborate more effectively.
- Implementation of FindNFund
Show how other funds have implemented FindNFund in their assessment process. By sharing successful examples, other funds can gain inspiration and optimize their own processes.
Satisfied reflection
We look back with satisfaction on the first edition of Doing Better. The afternoon underscored the added value of coming together and discussing topics that many face. By jointly discussing challenges and formulating solutions, we take steps forward as a sector.
FindNFund remains committed to connecting funds and promoting knowledge exchange within the sector. We look forward to future editions of Doing Better and the further steps we take together to do better as a sector.
Thanks to all participants for their valuable contribution and involvement!
