Non-profits have been slow to adopt technology, and when they do, they overpay for it. For example, they may spend on building custom software when an off-the-shelf one would work perfectly well. Often, they find it challenging to integrate and leverage such technology effectively. This results in long deployment cycles, higher costs and sub-par outcomes.
Resource crunched NGOs find themselves challenged for finding the right teams, building internal capacity, making the right tech choices and then executing on them.
Enter Tech4Dev.
Established in 2017 by open-source technology veteran Donald Lobo, Tech4Dev is an “ecosystem collaborative” on a mission to transform how non-profits in developing countries use technology and data to scale their operations and impact.
To empower non-profits with the skills to leverage technology and data in an effective and responsible manner, Tech4Dev has adopted a four-pronged approach.
1. Community of Practice (CoP): The first is creating a network of non-profits, software, data and design firms, and funders. Tech4Dev organises quarterly 3-day, in-person coworking events, monthly webinars, and has an active Discord channel.
2. Non-profit Tech Stack: Tech4Dev will partner with software firms to create a suite of affordable, scalable, open source platforms and tools that non-profits can use to expand their programmes. It currently has three open-source platforms that support non-profits to sell their programs: Glific (WhatsApp Chatbot), Avni (data collection tool), and Dalgo (data management and use). These are tools that can be customised and implemented with ease, and provide features that matter to non-profits. They are affordable, and Tech4Dev also provides developer support.
3. Fractional CxO programme: An initiative to crowd-in experienced technology and data professionals to work with non-profits to strengthen internal capabilities. Tech4Dev identifies professionals with 10-20 years of experience, who are then recruited and engaged by non-profits to define the tech and data strategy, hire talent, oversee development, set up processes, and drive responsible data practices. Non-profits pay a subsidised salary for the services of the CxO.
4. Data and Learning: These are workshops and sessions focused on upskilling non-profits on effective and responsible use of technology and data.
We are confident that Tech4Dev will cultivate a trusted, active and engaged community of professionals across non-profits, software, data, design firms, and funders. Non-profits will be equipped with scalable, affordable, open-source tools (Non-profit Tech Stack), talent (Fractional CxO), and data skills by using Tech4Dev’s tools and platforms, and learn to use technology and data effectively and in a responsible manner, enabling them to serve the Next Half Billion better.
Tech4Dev’s user-centric focus, coupled with their deep experience working at the intersection of technology and non-profits, positions them well to take on this exciting challenge. We at Omidyar Network India are excited to partner with Lobo and his team on this mission to democratise access to technology for non-profits.
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