Risk Pool Alliance (formerly Risk Pool Fund) was founded in 2018 as a collaboration between The Eleanor Crook Foundation, CRI Foundation, Vitol Foundation, and Open Road Alliance to test a new approach to mitigating unanticipated challenges in the implementation of maternal and child health and nutrition programmes in low-and middle-income countries.
In 2023, Risk Pool Alliance conducted an external review and extensive research to explore how funders and implementing partners assess and mitigate risk while also critically evaluating our own operating model. Our research reinforced the critical role of responsive, collaborative risk management, whilst also highlighting key ways that Risk Pool Alliance can expand our offering and further strengthen resilience.
Our Strengthened Approach
To deepen our impact, we have taken decisive steps to enhance our model:
- Established independence – Risk Pool Alliance is now an independent entity, registered as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) in the UK. This ensures that organisations can seek support without concerns over reputational risk, fostering a culture of trust and transparency.
- Diversified our External Review Panel – Our panel now includes experts with deep contextual knowledge of the environments in which our partners operate, ensuring that funding decisions are informed, fair, and responsive.
- Expanded our focus areas – We now support organisations across Health, Education, Economic Empowerment, and Humanitarian sectors.
- Updated funding criteria – Our funding criteria have been revised based on research findings to ensure that risk assessment tools reflect real-world implementation challenges.
- Increased support for local organisations – We are deepening our commitment to grassroots organisations, ensuring that local NGOs have equitable access to risk mitigation funding and support.
- Welcomed additional funders and networks – Strengthening our collaborative network allows us to offer more organisations the security and support they need to thrive.
- Enhanced technical support – We are equipping implementing organisations and funders with the knowledge and tools to proactively manage risk, reinforcing their ability to adapt and respond effectively.
- Sharing learning and evidence – By openly sharing our research and insights, we aim to empower the sector with knowledge, improving risk management practices and fostering a culture of preparedness.
Read more about the research and external review that shaped our evolution here.