Digital Connection: A Five-Day Hackathon with BNP Paribas

For most of us who lead small to medium-sized charities, securing corporate support often feels like hunting for a hidden treasure. It's a daily struggle to stay afloat. We may not boast extravagant budgets or glossy promotional materials, but our commitment to excellent grassroots work remains steadfast. However, the challenge lies in how we extend our reach, particularly when there's no designated individual to capture the perfect image during those precious moments when ten mums gather for coffee with our family connector. I eagerly overhear and ask the question ‘did you manage to take a photo’... I know the answer, I need no apology, our staff are resolutely focused on providing support to our families and volunteers, they have heard me before asking for a wishful photo....

I understand why we have to come up with many unique ways of showing the impact of our work.. and in todays 'content is king' culture I recognise that part of our role as a small charity involves digitally connecting with potential funders, volunteers and families alike.

So, how do we do it? And is there a one-size-fits-all solution that speaks to each of our stakeholders? Currently we rely on people, families saying yes to agreeing to let us work with them, volunteers taking up the challenge of a long and intense commitment and then for supporters? Again it is reliant on word of mouth, like the wonderful new volunteer who joined us last week and nominated us as another organisation's "charity of the year," or a Trustee who heard of an event that might be of interest… (thank you Catherine!)

Enter the BNP Paribas Hackathon! When the extraordinary opportunity to participate in their hackathon arose, we eagerly seized it. Often 'in-kind' participation for charities of our size is a painted wall, a 10 person team helping at an event (all of those welcome by the way) but this was something tangible,  that perfectly timed with the publication of our three year strategic plan. For charities like ours, it's about finding the right support – something that aligns with our values and protects the privacy of the families we serve.

This is where corporate support becomes truly transformative. The Hackathon enthusiastically adopted the 'Action Learning' coaching methodology, immersing ourselves in the world of inquiry, reminiscent of a curious child continually asking 'why.' Instead of jumping to quick solutions, we allowed ourselves to linger in the uncertainty, questioning deeply. This approach encouraged a more profound exploration of the real dilemma at hand, sparking a transformation that unfolded like a captivating story. It wasn't easy but we were empowered by the focus on practical solutions to real challenges, especially in advancing our digital delivery. Over five intense, exhilarating days, we engaged in a hackathon-style collaboration, guided by five esteemed leaders from within BNP Paribas (International bank). Together, we delved deep into the intricacies of our (lack of) digital delivery, hacking away at challenges and envisioning innovative solutions.

Led by the exceptional coach Amy from Be-leadership, we navigated a dynamic journey filled with challenges and laughter, ultimately arriving at a clear roadmap that seamlessly integrates with our grassroots charity's mission. As our chair often emphasises, "Evolution, not revolution”

We now have a plan, and the phone numbers of five extremely busy people who won’t mind me picking their marvellous brains... thank you BNP Paribas and Be Leadership!