Background
In 2022, Rendere became a cornerstone supporter of the Australian Environmental Grantmakers Network’s (AEGN) Nature program.
The funding supported the development of a new Nature Funding Framework to give philanthropists guidance on how to direct their funding for greater impact.
Organisational context
AEGN is a member-based organisation that promotes and supports environmental giving through information sharing, collaboration and networking. As part of its 2023-2025 Strategic Plan, AEGN committed to developing a series of funding frameworks to give members clear information on the laws, policies and regulations that can be leveraged for greater impact.
Rendere, along with Blue Sky Environmental Trust, Graeme Wood Foundation, Isaacson Davis Foundation, Jaramas Foundation, Melliodora Fund, Spinifex Trust, TREE Fund and AEGN ambassadors, supported the framework’s development, which involved consultation with over 50 leaders from environmental organisations, academia, government and philanthropy.
Outcome and impact
Formally launched in November 2023, the Nature Funding Framework identifies seven levers for change:
- Applied conservation (protect, restore and manage the environment),
- Legal (strengthen, test and apply laws and policies),
- Science, research and monitoring (collect and use data to guide strategy),
- Communication and education (reframe and amplify the story),
- Participation and agency (energise and involve communities),
- Capacity building and coordination (build a strong and unified movement),
- Economy (shift to a regenerative nature-positive system).
On Rendere’s contribution, AGEN Manager for Nature, Margie Jenkin said, “Apart from funding, Rendere’s Strategic Director Jim Phillipson was a key member of the Nature Working Group, providing critical input into program priorities and framework design.
“Jim is a welcome sounding board for AEGN more generally. His enthusiasm, networks, attention to outcomes and deep knowledge of what the sector needs has been instrumental in getting the AEGN’s nature program off the ground.”