Collaboration between funders and project managers for promoting planetary health

18.12.2024

Preserving planetary health has never been more crucial. Our environment is changing globally i.e. pollinators are disappearing and fisheries collapsing. Since 1950s the world population has increased almost 200% and fossil consumption by 550%. Because everything is interconnected, these and other similar changes affect our health in multiple ways.

Planetary health examines how environmental changes such as climate change, biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation affect public health and how our activities impact the Earth and its ability to sustain life. By integrating the insights of environmental, health and social sciences, planetary health aims to develop sustainable solutions to global challenges.

Establish a trust-based relationship

A cornerstone of any successful project that aims to protect our planet is trust between the funders and project managers. Establishing a strong, trust-based relationship helps secure funding and ensures that projects remain transparent, adaptable, and results-oriented.

A trust-based relationship enables open communication and effective collaboration as well as fosters innovation. It also helps to mitigate risks, and enhance the accountability of the project manager. Moreover, it supports long-term relationships, ethical decision-making, and shared responsibility, all of which are critical for the success of complex, high-impact planetary health projects.

As such, building and maintaining trust between funders and project managers should be a foundational principle in all planetary health initiatives to ensure their effectiveness and long-term sustainability.

Well planned is half done

The success in R&D project for promoting planetary health can be ensured with good planning. For to do this, one may find next tips as helpful:

Start by clearly defining what the project aims to achieve, and the specific outcomes expected. Objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For example, if the project aims to reduce plastic waste in coastal areas, specify the expected reduction percentage and timeline.
Funders are more likely to trust and invest in projects that rely on scientific research, past successes, and best practices. Integrate credible data sources and case studies into your framework to strengthen the legitimacy of the project.
A well-organized timeline and budget display the project manager’s foresight and planning ability. Outline key milestones and allocate resources effectively to show funders that the project is feasible. Providing a buffer for unexpected costs or delays can also highlight your realistic approach.
Establishing an Evaluation and Monitoring framework allows funders to see how progress will be tracked and assessed. This builds confidence that you are committed to transparency and accountability. Include the key performance indicators (KPIs) and a feedback mechanism to continuously improve project delivery.

Construct a persuasive pitch

For to succeed in grant application, just preparing the application document is not enough. You need to be also able to pitch your proposal to convince the funders of the value and potential of your project.

A persuasive pitch requires a balance between passion for the cause and a clear demonstration of expertise. Nevertheless, what makes a pitch persuasive?

First before reaching out, research your prospective funders thoroughly. Understand their primary interests, previously funded projects, and core values. This enables you to tailor your pitch to align their mission and increases your chances of securing support.

Funders often respond well to storytelling. Present the goals of the project in a way that connects emotionally. For example, if your project addresses deforestation, share a story about a community impacted by forest loss. Emphasize how funding can make a measurable impact on real lives. Funders want to know how their investment will create lasting change. Clearly outline how your project will contribute to planetary health, addressing both short-term and long-term impacts. Use visuals, statistics, and concrete examples to illustrate the difference your project will make.

From the initial pitch, show funders that you value openness and collaboration. Provide them with a summary of the project framework, budget, and risk management strategies, allowing them to see that you have thought through every aspect of the project.

Build a partnership between funders and project managers

A partnership between funders and project managers is a collaborative relationship where both parties work together to achieve the successful implementation and outcomes of the project. Funders provide the financial resources and strategic guidance, while project managers handle the operational aspects such as ensuring that the project is delivered within budget, on time, and according to the intended goals.

To build a strong partnership between funders and project managers:

Establish regular communication to update funders on your progress, challenges, and any adjustments in the project. Frequent updates reassure funders that the project is on track and gives them confidence that their investment is being handled responsibly. Funders appreciate being part of the journey. Involve them in major decisions, especially those that could impact project goals or outcomes. This collaboration fosters a sense of shared responsibility and strengthens the funders’ commitment to the project.

No project is without challenges, but hiding difficulties can erode trust. If issues arise, be honest with funders about the situation and your plans to address them. Transparency in tough times demonstrates integrity and strengthens trust.

Acknowledge and celebrate key achievements with funders. This could be as simple as sending a progress report highlighting milestones or arranging a meeting to discuss successes. Celebrating together reinforces the sense of partnership and shared purpose.

pöydän ääressä ihimisiä läppäreiden kanssa — Photo: RonaldCandonga / Creative Commons CC0/ Pixabay

Invest in planetary health

In the pursuit of safeguarding planetary health, funders and project managers share a unified objective to create meaningful, positive change. When thoughtfully designed and effectively executed, planetary health initiatives can adapt to economic challenges by offering a variety of employment opportunities at different skill levels, particularly for underserved and marginalized communities.

These projects not only generate direct job opportunities and income but also tend to offer a higher return on investment compared with other sectors.

By collaborating, funders and project managers can drive transformative change, helping to restore biodiversity, mitigate climate change, reduce dependence on costly resources, enhance public health, and improve resilience.

Investing in planetary health initiatives can help prevent climate-related damages, lower healthcare expenditures, and strengthen economic stability. Funders should consider the long-term societal and resilience benefits when supporting these projects. A comprehensive policy framework is crucial to ensure that well-structured planetary health projects provide a range of benefits, address potential trade-offs, and actively promote biodiversity.

Together, funders and project managers have the opportunity to foster sustainable, circular economies that support both human well-being and the preservation of biodiverse ecosystems.