Start Network is made up of 98 humanitarian agencies with a footprint in over 150 countries. Our vision is for a new era of humanitarian action that is locally led and accountable to people affected by or at risk of crises.  

Tackling what we see as the most significant problems in traditional aid and philanthropy (centralised power, slow and reactive funding as well as an aversion to change) we provide fast, proactive support to communities at the forefront of crises. We do this through innovative financing models and approaches, enhancing communities‘ agency so they can deliver effective locally led responses before and when disasters strike.  

How we work: 

Through locally led action, early and rapid financing and by driving a culture of innovation of learning we’re empowering people on the frontline to provide effective, locally
led responses when and before crises strike. 

Our work focuses on three areas to change the system:  

• Locally led action: Wbelieve a more balanced system, that shifts power to those closest to the front line will generate more effective and appropriate responses for people affected by crises.
• Early and rapid financing: We believe that by understanding the risks we face and providing fast, early, and predictable funding, we can help communities to become better prepared and more resilient to crises.
• Culture of innovation & learning: We believe that new ways of working are needed to tackle the challenges we face. By innovating collectively, we can share expertise, insights and perspectives to shape a more effective humanitarian system.

Learn more about our approaches and initiatives at http://www.startnetwork.org