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Strategy for Science Philanthropy

About Me

I believe science philanthropy is our greatest catalyst for innovation. Our future is shaped by today's research decisions and the discoveries that follow.

 

I help funders make decisions that are impactful,  actionable, and aligned with thier values, by drawing on 15+ years of experience in research and management.

Contact
Dawid Potgieter_edited.jpg
Office Building
School Children
Cambridge
What Clients Say

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My Approach

My approach draws on leading strategy, management, and related frameworks, carefully adapted for philanthropic settings.

 

Traditional strategy models are designed for organizations seeking competitive advantage through direct control. Funders work differently: they create impact indirectly through grantees, partnerships, and wider research ecosystems.

I adapt strategy frameworks for partnership-based contexts where progress depends on alignment, sound judgment, and action through others.
 
I focus on strategies that are clear enough to guide decisions, practical enough to shape programs, and structured to support accountability.

Strategy that reflects how funders create impact

Progress Through Partnership

Commercial strategy is inherently competitive. I use adapted frameworks that leverage partnerships toward differentiated and catalytic impact.

Action At A Distance

Research funders achieve impact indirectly through their grantees. I provide risk-managed guidance toward empowerment and accountability.

Long-Term Value Alignment

I focus on translating your vision into actionable goals. This helps staff navigate uncertainty and ensure accountability to the boardroom.

Selected work

Examples of my work can be found on the Research Philanthropy Advisors website, where I am part of a collaborative of independent consultants advising science philanthropists and research funders on strategy, programme design, and related work.

What I Help With

Organizational Strategy

Clarify institutional direction to connect your mission, goals, and decision-making across leadership and governance.

Grant-Portfolio Strategy

Decide how to shape a portfolio that balances ambition, resources, risk, and opportunity across areas of giving.

Program Strategy

Turn strategic priorities into catalytic programs through funding calls, selection criteria, and supporting processes.

Contact

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