Plate 01 · Problem · Who we serve
Alternative ownership enterprises (AOEs) deserve better.
These enterprises are integral to a more equitable and resilient economy, but operate in unique and challenging environments: Balancing socio-ecological values with financial sustainability is difficult to harmonise.
AOEs require strategic support that works with their inherent structural and operational complexity.
Plate 02 · Value proposition
Impact CoLab helps these enterprises, and their extended networks, to flourish.
Socially beneficial
Strategies that center wellbeing, dignity and shared prosperity.
Environmentally regenerative
Designs that restore ecosystems, not just reduce harm.
Financially sustainable
Models that endure, enhance impact and remain accountable.
Plate 03 · About · Who we are
A trusted advisory partner and systems change catalyst:
We're a dedicated team with decades of experience in the social, solidarity, and impact sector.
Vision
A more inclusive, equitable and resilient economy that prioritises the wellbeing of people and planet, together and in partnership with our associates.
Plate 04 · The model · How we work
Our approach is participatory, emergent, and adaptive.
Drawing on systems thinking and complexity theory, we provide tailored advisory services that strengthen capacity to navigate uncertainty and change.
Walking alongside and in relationship with our associates, we facilitate and co-create strategies, systems, programmes, and learning journeys.
Strategy
Strategies and structures that align purpose with performance, and meet regulatory standards.
Governance
Leadership and models for inclusive and democratic decision-making.
Operations
Organisational infrastructure, including systems & processes, that supports day-to-day management.
Learning
Space for innovation to be pursued within the organisation, and across product & service offerings.
Plate 05 · Impact · In practice
Work in the field.
Participatory dissemination · Cooperative sector
Making cooperative data make sense — together
Turning a national situational analysis of South Africa's cooperative sector into a participatory sensemaking event with the people the data is about.
Read case study
COMPLEX SYSTEMS VISIBILITY · WASTE ECOSYSTEM
Navigating complexity over time
Walking alongside a Cape Town-based waste ecosystem steward to foster organisational visibility and prepare for further resourcing.
Read case study
Innovation prize design · Food system
Designing a prize the sector helped shape
Designing and managing the inaugural Inqola FEED Innovation Prize — embedding inclusion and systems thinking from sectoral consultation to final winners.
Read case studyPlate 06 · Trust · Who we work with
In good company.
We collaborate with movements, networks and institutions across South Africa and beyond — convening across sectors to make ecosystem-level change possible.
