our movement governance

Catalyst Now is a member-driven entity. Our members have contributed thousands of volunteer hours, a testament to the passion that drives each member towards creating systems change. Our non-hierarchical organisation structure has the following components:
Organisation Component

Catalyst Now is a values-driven membership organisation – engaging and working together to progress towards achieving common goals.

  • General Assembly

    is made up of all members and is the cornerstone of Catalyst Now, meeting online once a month; it sets the movement’s direction and celebrates successes

    Governing Council

    develops the strategic plan based on agreed policy direction and drives its execution

    Working Groups

    are groups of members in service of particular aspects of the movement (e.g. Communications, Memberships)

    Collaborations

    are where members come together to co-create an activity for structural and systemic change

    Local Chapters

    take responsibility for part of the Catalyst Now mission in their region, country or city

    Task Forces

    are short-term groups which take on a specific task for Catalyst Now (e.g. writing a report or planning an event)

    Secretariat

    supports the organisation in all its endeavours

  • Catalyst Now governance has evolved from its genesis as Catalyst 2030 to reflect changing priorities and ecosystem-level initiatives. The movement now functions as a flexible, interconnected community without a main office. Decentralization helps achieve collaborative systems change and promotes organic growth.
     
    The current structure includes the General Assembly, four councils, a legal-financial board, the Governing Council, and the Secretariat. Each council and group has co-chairs serving two-year terms, reflecting diversity in skills, gender, and lived experience. The Governing Council can appoint multiple co-chairs and establish sub-committees as needed.
     

    governing council

    Although advisory, the Governing Council (GC), plays a crucial role in the movement's strategic direction. It includes representatives from various councils, ensuring diversity and adherence to the movement's founding principles.
    At least 75% of its members are social entrepreneurs, reflecting the movement's mission.

    Ecosystem Council representative

    Collaborations Council representative

    Geographical Council representative

    Working Groups Council representative

    Academic Observers