Strategic planning collective

In Hungary, as democratic institutions weaken, grassroots organizations face increasing socio-political and financial pressure. Civil society organizations (CSOs) are struggling to maintain their effectiveness and sustainability while advocating for democracy and social change. Most CSOs lack the resources and knowledge for strategic planning, hindering their long-term impact in a repressive environment.

Responding to these challenges, the Strategic Planning Collective helps CSOs lead strategic planning processes, strengthening their ability to work towards goals consciously and effectively. At its core, this initiative fosters resilient, sustainable organizations that stand for democracy, especially in authoritarian contexts. Through regular strategic planning sessions, participating CSOs can focus their efforts, build stability, and lay the groundwork for systemic democratic change.

Under the leadership of the School of Public Life, the Strategic Planning Collective coordinates training and workshops essential to its mission. Collective members, collaborating in pairs, facilitate planning sessions with the support of strategic planning coordinators. Each session benefits from close collaboration between the Collective and CSOs, ensuring high-quality, tailored support for individual organizational needs.

Innovation emerges through the collaborative nature of the Collective, where members receive continuous professional support. Ongoing evaluations and development sessions ensure the constant improvement of strategies. Several successful strategy sessions were conducted for large organizations in 2024, reflecting significant growth. Planned expansion in 2025 will increase the Collective's reach and further professionalize its impact.

Beyond immediate benefits, the Strategic Planning Collective promotes the importance of long-term strategic planning and organizational adaptation to social shifts. By demonstrating that seeking external help is valuable and normal, this initiative fosters cultural change in Hungary's civil society. Collaborative approaches are encouraged throughout the process, setting an example that knowledge-sharing leads to greater collective success.