Recently we applied for UNICEF’s Wearables for Good Challenge and I read some interesting pieces on NGOs and innovation. Since these gave me the impression that NGOs could benefit more from innovation and new technologies, I decided to offer my expertise and part of my time to help NGOs innovate, or at least to assist in evaluating if innovation and technology could benefit them.
Below is the open application I am sending to a number of NGOs that are (also) operating in The Netherlands. I am curious to find out if it will stick and if I get any response. In case you are also working in the innovation field and interested in offering help to NGOs, feel free to use my application as a template or contact me to see how we can join forces.
Dear Sir, Madam,
How could [ORGANIZATION NAME] benefit more from established innovation techniques and technologies such as Open Innovation, Open Data, Internet of Things and Crowdfunding?
My name is Diderik van Wingerden and as a consultant I help my corporate clients innovate. I am also an entrepreneur and with our company we develop innovative products which we release under an ‘open source’ license.
The reason you receive this e-mail from me is that I offer my expertise and part of my time as a volunteer for your organization, with the intent for assisting in an innovative initiative.
If my offer is of interest to you, then please let me know and we could set up a telephone conversation or meeting to exchange ideas.
This recent article in the Huffington Post, our participation in the UNICEF Wearables for Good Challenge and UNICEF’s Do It Yourself Guide for Innovation Labs inspired me to send you this e-mail.
For more information about me, see my LinkedIn Profile and Website.
Besides your organization these organizations also received my offer: UNICEF NL, Oxfam Novib, Cordaid, Amnesty International, Greenpeace, Hivos and PAX. This initiative is also published on my website (LINK) and shared on social media.
Warm regards, hartelijke groet,
Diderik van Wingerden
+31621639148
“Do what is right.”