Thoughtworks’ new Social Change Lab will provide technology advisory and development support for up to four not-for-profit organizations (NFPs)
Global software company Thoughtworks is announcing a new initiative to support non-profit organizations and social movements in their ambitious missions. Building on over two decades of work with the non-profit sector and leveraging technical expertise in software design and development, Thoughtworks’ new Social Change Lab will provide technology advisory and development support for up to four not-for-profit organizations (NFPs) in the UK.
From today, NFPs can apply to be considered for this scheme by the Thoughtworks UK Social Change Lab. The lab is part of Thoughtworks’ global Social Change strategy, which focuses on actively contributing to the positive social impact that technology can have in creating a fairer, more inclusive and equitable society.
Thoughtworks’ Social Change Lab will comprise of two packages designed for different sizes of not-for-profit organizations.
For medium or large-sized NFPs, Thoughtworks is offering up to three advisory packages that could be used for coaching, ideation or to create or review a technology strategy, product strategy or an existing solution.
A second, more substantial programme will be run for one large-sized NFP with an established internal tech development team. Here Thoughtworks is offering a development package, featuring a dedicated technology team for up to eight weeks. This could be used to build or refine a technology solution, create a proof of concept, or help with funding applications. This package is worth up to £250,000.
Thoughtworks UK has worked with a number of NFPs transforming their technology capabilities including, One Million Mentors - the community-based mentoring charity, and the Bahamas Marine Mammal Research Organization. As the UK re-emerges from protracted social restrictions, the new Thoughtworks programme represents a major strategy for building strong and meaningful partnerships with the Third Sector, recognizing the important role that NFPs play in the social and economic wellbeing of the country at large.
Applications will close on July 9, 2021, with advisory and development packages commencing in October. Organizations should be based in the UK, registered as a Charity, CIO, CIC or co-operative, have experience of using digital technology in their operations and have the resources and infrastructure to take forward the strategies created with the Thoughtworks Social Change Lab.
Organizations can find out more about the programme and apply here
“As we emerge from COVID restrictions, we at Thoughtworks want to continue to support the Third Sector at a critical time. The Social Change Lab goes beyond making a simple financial donation – we want to do something that will have a longer-lasting impact by helping organizations to develop the skills, knowledge and strategies that will ensure their future.
By applying the minds of committed and passionate Thoughtworks teams to the specific and unique challenges an inpidual not-for-profit faces, we hope to create a lasting impact on some amazing organizations. This is about listening, not telling, understanding the complexities of the problems an organization might face - and offering intelligent, thought-through and effective solutions, rather than off-the-shelf proposals that may not work” commented Ruth Harrison, managing director, Thoughtworks UK.