Through recent research, Risk Pool Alliance confirmed what many in the development and humanitarian sector have long known: funders and implementors don’t always see risk the same way.
Why This Discussion Mattered
Through recent research, Risk Pool Alliance confirmed what many in the development and humanitarian sector have long known: funders and implementors don’t always see risk the same way. While funders tend to focus on compliance, fraud prevention, and timeline delays, implementors are often grappling with operational disruptions that affect day-to-day realities. These differing perspectives make collaboration and risk mitigation complex, but not impossible—especially when we create space for honest conversations like this one.
An Expert Panel with Deep Experience
The discussion featured six experts with a wealth of experience in programme implementation, philanthropy, and risk management:
- Shiv Kumar – A social entrepreneur and investor, Shiv co-founded the Catalyst Group of Institutions, which works to address health and inequality in vulnerable communities. He also leads #CommunityActionCollab, an initiative that mobilises resources to respond to crises.
- Anna Fraeznel – Director of Technical Projects at Viamo, a digital organisation improving access to information for remote communities. With over 15 years in humanitarian and development contexts, Anna specialises in leveraging technology to enhance programme impact.
- Mohammed Osman – CEO of Spring Impact, an organisation that helps mission-driven initiatives scale effectively. Previously, he served as Grants Director at the Elton John AIDS Foundation, managing funding strategies for global health interventions.
- Dr Moses Isooba – Executive Director of the Uganda National NGO Forum, Dr Isooba is a leader in civil society advocacy and a member of the Re-Imagining INGOs Social Lab, which focuses on transforming the global aid sector.
- Tunji Eleso – Director of Scale and Sustainability at Grand Challenges Canada, supporting innovators who improve lives in fragile and conflict-affected settings. His expertise spans entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and sustainable development.
- Lonnie Hackett – Founder and President of Healthy Learners, a Zambia-based NGO that integrates healthcare into schools. Lonnie has first-hand experience in navigating operational challenges to sustain impactful programmes.
Key Takeaways from the Discussion
- Risk Perception Gaps
Funders and implementors define and prioritise risk differently. Funders are often more concerned with financial accountability, compliance and programme deadlines. Although implementers are acutely aware of these risks, they are often more concerned by operational constraints and local complexities. This disconnect can lead to misaligned expectations and missed opportunities for meaningful problem-solving.
- Risk Registers Are Often a ‘Tick-Box’ Exercise
Many implementors see risk registers in funding applications as a tick-box exercise, rather than a tool for real engagement on risk mitigation. This highlights a missed opportunity for funders to use these documents as a genuine tool for discussion and problem-solving.
- The Funders-Implementers Relationship is Not Always Equal
As one panellist put it, “Trust arrives on foot and leaves on horseback.” While trust is fundamental to strong funder-implementor relationships, there’s often a power imbalance that prevents open conversations about challenges. Implementors may fear jeopardising future funding by disclosing real-time problems, leading to a lack of transparency.
- The Myth of the ‘Friendly’ Funder
Funders should not assume that their relationship with implementors is inherently collaborative or equal. While funders may view themselves as partners, implementors often experience the relationship as one with clear power dynamics and high stakes.
- Know Your Funder’s Internal Structure
Not all programme officers or grant managers have the same level of decision-making power. Understanding the internal dynamics of a funder organisation can be crucial for implementors trying to navigate funding challenges quickly and effectively.
- The Value of Neutral, Rapid Response Support
Several panellists shared examples of how Risk Pool Alliance has played a crucial role in supporting implementors through unexpected challenges. Because Risk Pool Alliance operates independently, implementors can seek support without the fear of damaging their relationship with a funder.
What’s Next? A Toolkit for Risk Management
The conversation didn’t end when the panel wrapped up. In fact, it sparked a new initiative—a working group to develop a practical risk toolkit for funders and implementors. At the end of the session, 13 individuals signed up to contribute, marking the first step in a collaborative effort to improve risk management practices across the sector.
Final Thoughts
By fostering open, non-judgemental, and evidence-based discussions, Risk Pool Alliance is helping to bridge the gap between funders and implementors, ensuring that risk is not just an afterthought but a shared responsibility.
Want to dive deeper into the research behind this discussion? Read our latest blog on risk perceptions and the evolution of Risk Pool Alliance.