EDGE Members’ Dialogues
Inspired by our membership and the strategy meeting we held at the beginning of 2023 with the Regional Advisory Steering Groups, EDGE started four new open spaces for EDGE members to have open conversations on progressive funding practices, including opportunities and challenges they are currently facing. The spaces are thematically focused (see themes below) with a commitment to exploring systemic change practices.
The space is open to all EDGE members who are interested in sharing their experiences in funding progressive and systemic change work globally, and wish to connect with fellow co – conspirators dedicated to work collectively towards a just transition. The group will have the opportunity to invite (paid) civil society and movement leaders as speakers to the meetings, as needed.
The meetings are self-organised by the group, with one – two organizations facilitating each session with the support of the EDGE staff.
Democracy and Systemic Change
How are EDGE members funding progressive work supporting true democratic practices? What are the main challenges philanthropy is experiencing globally attempting to contract the resurgence of populist governments? What are the progressive alternatives that we have identified as most successful in building strong and sustainable democratic processes?
Agroecology and Systemic Change
We are looking at a future with a major food crisis as population increases at a higher rate than production. In the name of food security, many governments are working towards the corporatization of food production with no attention to the fact that 80% of the food we consume comes from small farmers. How can philanthropy support a reimagination of food production and supply? How can philanthropy support sovereignty and not just security? This working group will start a conversation on how to fund a better food system. We will delve into sovereignty, agroecology, labor rights, regenerative agriculture and trade amongst other topics decided by the group.
Investments and Endowments
It is important to look at how money moves in the world but just as much at where money comes from. In this working group we will be looking at investments and endowments that fund foundations’ work. Is there a way to align funding sources with funding intentions? What can we do in our foundations to continue pushing for that alignment?