FrontlineAid, a social tech for-good company, and RealtimeAid, a German charity, have joined forces to create a groundbreaking hybrid organisation that combines innovation and impact to drive meaningful change. With their innovative suite of tools and a focus on localisation and the "Grand Bargain" ethos, they are transforming the way remote working and aid delivery is conducted. Supported by the German Federal Foreign Office and BMZ, they have partnered with renowned organisations like Save the Children , UN Habitat and other (organisations with a no visibility policy).
The suite of tools developed by FrontlineAid and RealtimeAid is specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with the process of working with sub-grantees and local partners on the ground. Let's take a closer look at some of these tools:
- Onboarding: This streamlined process enables FrontlineAid and RealtimeAid to connect with grassroots organisations, gather relevant information, and collaboratively define project outcomes. By ensuring compliance with due diligence standards and providing mentorship, they empower these organisations to effectively manage funding.
- Risk, Due Diligence, and Safeguarding: By developing an online tool, FrontlineAid and RealtimeAid systematically map various compliance aspects and gain a comprehensive understanding of the local context. This tool covers security, protection, geographical factors, and other risks in line with international standards.
- Participatory Decision-Making: Ensuring that local communities are at the heart of decision-making, this process and tool transparently map out the involvement and contributions of the local population. In Al Raqqa, over 300 grassroots organisations and 40,000 individuals have already participated in a successful trial run.
- Finance: FrontlineAid and RealtimeAid together with Accountancy Without Boarders have developed an automated, mobile/tablet-friendly system for charity budgeting and financial management. This user-friendly tool simplifies financial processes, enabling efficient management of funds and resources.
The genesis of this hybrid organisation lies in RealtimeAid's extensive charitable work in Syria since 2007 and their establishment of FrontlineAid in 2019. FrontlineAid serves as a social tech company that supports local initiatives and responds to donor demands by providing an integrated system that meets the needs of all stakeholders involved. By alleviating the burdens of paperwork and offering a scalable and adaptable model, they aim to revolutionise the sector.
Additionally, FrontlineAid is developing a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) tool that caters to the requirements of traditional grant-giving sectors, philanthropic projects, and other unrestricted funding opportunities. Leveraging the 8+3 template, a flexible reporting model developed by the AA, this comprehensive tool provides in-depth reports and evaluations from the ground. The M&E tool utilises voice data collection, videos, and an intuitive online dashboard, simplifying the process and enhancing data-driven decision-making.
FrontlineAid and RealtimeAid's hybrid organisation is redefining humanitarian work, leveraging technology, and innovative solutions to drive impactful change. Through their collaborative efforts, they aim to amplify the reach, efficiency, and transparency of aid delivery while putting local communities at the forefront of decision-making. With their groundbreaking suite of tools and commitment to social impact, they are paving the way for a new era of humanitarian engagement.
The next major version of their software will be piloted in June as part of a new round of grant awards in Al Raqqa, Syria. The pilot has already seen tremendous interest, with over 250 applications submitted and processed in just four days. To expand their impact, FrontlineAid and RealtimeAid will add five new grassroots organisations to their network, providing them with the infrastructure and resources needed to thrive.
RealtimeAid and FrontlineAid are keen to collaborate with Supporters to explore how the solutions can align with and enhance your work. They offer expertise in remote project management solutions within humanitarian crises contexts and are committed to supporting your project portfolio. By leveraging technology, streamlining processes, and embracing collaboration, they aim to improve efficiency, increase transparency, and drive meaningful impact.
Together, RealtimeAid and FrontlineAid are revolutionising humanitarian work. Their hybrid organisation combines the strengths of a charity and a social tech for-profit, leveraging technology and collaboration to create positive change. By focusing on empowering local people and simplifying their lives, they are ensuring that valuable time and resources are dedicated to making a lasting impact in communities.
