Our Process

One Foundation has eight goals to achieve by 2014. In order to achieve these goals One Foundation seeks out organisations that share these goals as part of there mission. Each of our programmes is overseen by a Portfolio Manager.

We do not accept unsolicited proposals.

Before we decide to make an investment, we follow 4 steps:

1. Network: We seek out organisations that fit within our programme areas.

2. Due Diligence: The process from first contact to completion of Due Diligence can be up to 6 months to a year.

Due Diligence is a 3 – 4 month exercise in getting to know the organisation and its leadership. We explore whether there is mission alignment and a culture fit with One Foundation, and whether we can add any value.

3. Business Planning: If the above is satisfactory the offer of business planning is made. Business Planning in and of itself is an investment in the organisation.

We appoint an independent consultant to help you create a strategic and operational business plan. We will support you in this process, but ultimately, it is your organisation’s plan, designed to help deliver your vision.

Investment does not necessarily follow Business Planning. However, on the back of a Business Plan the organisation has clarity on what it wants to achieve and how, so that it can make a pitch for investment.

4. Advisory Group Review: Decisions on investment are made by an Advisory Group. Members are drawn from the NGO, business, and philanthropic sectors and meet quarterly.

5. Award Grant: If an organisation successfully secures investment it is usually for 3 – 5 years. Investment is performance based, with annual targets (as well as quarterly) set that must be achieved for the following years money to be released. Quarterly meetings are held to discuss progress, opportunities, and challenges.

When we invest in an organisation it is because we firmly believe in their mission, and we do all in our power to support the organisation in achieving impact.

Our support is in the form of finance, networks, and non-financial human capital inputs.