Building Resilience in Times of Crisis : Part 1: Supporting partnersâ response and adaptation in funding crises

Abstract

Recent events and the USAID funding freeze have highlighted how unprepared we are when a crisis strikes. Partners suddenly lose resources they depend on, and the issues they address are quickly labelled as controversial, placing them at risk of backlash. This situation raises critical questions:* How do we support grantees who rely on these funds? * What type of support is more effective in situations when philanthropy cannot fully fill the funding gap? * How can we protect grantees and our organisations while staying true to our values, mission and goals?There is no one-size-fits-all answer; as contexts change rapidly, our strategies and tools must adapt in real time. Addressing these challenges requires not only immediate financial relief but also specialised skills and strong support infrastructures that go beyond traditional project funding. This is where Organisational Development (OD) and flexible funding become essential, helping grantees build resilience and adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. Recognising this need, the Philea Organisational Development Community of Practice has launched a series of informal gatherings on "Building Resilience in Times of Crisis" where philanthropy practitioners can discuss challenges, share approaches and explore adaptable support strategies. This learning series is not only a space to exchange immediate responses but also to think critically about how to reshape funding and support structures in ways that centre local leadership, foster long-term sustainability and challenge existing power imbalances in the philanthropic ecosystem.This information note captures the learnings from the first of three sessions in this series:* Part 1: Supporting partners' response and adaptation in funding crises* Part 2: Building Effective Partnerships* Part 3: Bridging Efforts Across the Atlanti