More than 30 founders and business leaders have called for a shift from donor dependency to sustainable business models amid growing uncertainty over development funding.
The call emerged from the inaugural Founders Nexus, a four-day retreat held in Kampala, where social entrepreneurs, development practitioners and private sector leaders discussed strategies to keep organisations afloat in a changing funding environment.
Organised by Founders Pack in partnership with Reach A Hand Africa, Afya Na Haki and Sauti Plus Media House, the retreat focused on helping founders redesign their organisations for long-term sustainability through stronger leadership, partnerships and innovation.
A key issue dominating discussions was the shrinking availability of donor funding, prompting participants to explore alternative financing models, stronger governance systems and business approaches that can sustain organisations beyond traditional grants.
Speaking during the retreat, the Executive Director of the Centre for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD), Fatia Kiyange, said organisations must urgently rethink how they operate if they are to survive.
“For too long, many of our organisations have survived on borrowed certainty. If we are to build institutions that outlive funding cycles, we must begin to think like founders, investors, and builders of legacy. Sustainability can no longer be a conversation for tomorrow,” Kiyange said.
Participants also highlighted founder wellbeing as a critical but often overlooked factor in organisational success, discussing burnout, decision fatigue and the emotional pressures associated with leading institutions.
The retreat brought together leaders from the media, technology, health, philanthropy and private sectors, who shared experiences on building resilient organisations through collaboration, automation, strategic partnerships and personal leadership development.
At the close of the summit, participants committed to implementing practical sustainability plans within their organisations and formed accountability partnerships to monitor progress.
Organisers also announced that the Founders Nexus will continue through quarterly masterclasses on governance, fundraising and leadership to help founders navigate an increasingly challenging business and funding landscape.
