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Don McCreesh, Chair of the VSI IM/IT Advisory Group, emphasizes the necessity for funders to align their visions with the technical needs of nonprofits. He argues that technology funding should be a core responsibility of funders, who must encourage strategic use of tech to enhance nonprofit missions and impact. The VSI Changing IM/IT Funding Practices Project aims to facilitate these crucial conversations across Canada and advocate for collaborative, mission-driven technology usage. With the right support, funders can help nonprofits leverage technology more effectively.
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Beyond the Box… “We want to match funders’ visions up with the reality of needed tech support. Funding for technology is part of a funder’s responsibility and we want to have that conversation.” Don McCreesh, Chair, VSI IM/IT Advisory Group
Changing tech funding practices As with other infrastructure, not-for-profits often find it hard to find resources to cover the costs of computers and Internet access Also, there is a pressing need for not-for-profits to think more strategically about technology as a tool to increase impact and pursue missions Using conversations across Canada, the VSI Changing IM/IT Funding Practices Project is working to move these issues forward
Where we need to go Computers, Internet access and support are seen as voluntary sector “must haves.” Thinking about technology shifts to strategic, mission-driven uses We all understand that the power of technology lies in networking people
What can funders do? 1. Make sure thebasics are in place 2. Invest in high tech that leads to high touch 3. Encourage strategic use of technology
What can funders do? 4. Support collaborative use of Internet 5. Help peers understand potential of technology 6. Be a champion for the strategic use and funding of technology
Parting thought ... • There is a pressing need for Canada’s voluntary sector to move beyond boxes, cables and software and on to the strategic, mission driven use of the Internet. And grantmakers have a key role to play in helping the sector make this step. • Want more info on this project, or to see some of the tools that can help you understand technology funding? Contact tech@impacs.org • We encourage you to visit the VSI website, where you can find resources on funding practices and strategic technology planning, as well as other resources related to technology training and other services. See www.vsi-isbc.ca.