London Met KTP Associate Shrabani Bhattacharjee reports on a transformative Knowledge Transfer Partnership with London Funders.
Date: 1 October 2024
London Funders and London Metropolitan University have launched a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) aimed at addressing a critical challenge in philanthropy: developing innovative financial models and governance frameworks to better manage pooled funds.
Purpose of the KTP
The KTP between London Funders and London Metropolitan University bridges the gap between academic research and practical implementation. It tackles a central organisational challenge: how to design a sustainable financial model that promotes collaboration across multiple funding streams while ensuring strong governance and accountability.
As a key player in supporting London’s communities through collaborative funding, London Funders recognised the need to evolve its financial practices to meet the growing complexity of social needs through the initiative Collaboration Circle. The KTP plays a crucial role in helping the organisation adapt by developing new frameworks for managing funds more efficiently and equitably.
The project has already made substantial progress. Initial drafts of financial models are being developed, setting the stage for Collaboration Circle to manage pooled resources with greater transparency and accountability. By blending academic insights with real-world needs, this KTP is laying the foundation for a more impactful and sustainable future for philanthropy in London and beyond.
Why I Applied
I applied for this KTP role because I have always been passionate about translating academic insights into practical solutions, particularly in areas that contribute to societal wellbeing. This project, which combines social impact, financial innovation, and collaborative strategy, aligned perfectly with my professional goals.
Early Benefits to the Business
Though still early in the project’s lifecycle, the benefits to Collaboration Circle are already evident. The leadership team, led by Geraldine Blake, has expressed excitement about the progress we’ve made in laying the foundation for new financial models. These models will enable Collaboration Circle to ensure that resources are directed where they are needed most.
In the coming months, the KTP will continue to refine these financial models, with the ultimate goal of creating a comprehensive framework that will enhance Collaboration Circle's ability to make lasting impacts.
Reflections from the KTP Partners
Dr Jonida Carungu, Guildhall School of Business and Law, said:
"The Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with London Funders has been an incredibly rewarding experience. As an Academic Supervisor, it has been a privilege to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical support, especially in helping London Funders launch the Collaboration Circle. This initiative is crucial for advancing a more equitable funding system in response to the needs of civil society and funders. Working with the team has been immensely fulfilling, and it has been a particular pleasure to collaborate with the KTP Associate, Shrabani, whose proactive approach has been instrumental in driving progress. The collaboration between funders and communities has always been central to London Funders' mission, and this partnership has reinforced the importance of integrating research into charitable initiatives. I am excited to witness the long-term impact of this collaboration."
Geraldine Blake, Director of Collaboration and Development at London Funders, commented:
"As we develop Collaboration Circle, London Funders is excited to be partnering with London Met on this Knowledge Transfer Partnership. Shrabani is proving to be a very useful addition to the team, bringing academic learning and models to our work, and we're also delighted to have the regular input from Doris and Jonida, the senior academics. This partnership is guiding our thinking and the direction of our work as we develop a space where funders and civil society can come together to pool funds and expertise to tackle the biggest issues facing communities. Shrabani has settled in fast, produced a series of really useful papers, benchmarked our aspirations, and made her first presentation to the new Board of Directors already."
