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Draft:OPEN (The Online Progressive Engagement Network)

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OPEN
Online Progressive Engagement Network
Formation2013; 11 years ago (2013)
Founded atNew York City, USA
TypeNGO
Legal status501 (c)(3)
Focus
  • Digital Advocacy
  • Strategies for Effective Digital Advocacy
  • Tools and Technologies for Digital Advocacy
  • Social Change Movements
  • Challenges in Digital Advocacy
  • Measuring Success in Digital Campaigning
  • Future Trends in Digital Advocacy
HeadquartersGlobal
Location
  • Delaware, USA
  • Barcelona, Spain
Services
  • Technology Support
  • Campaign Strategy
  • Training and Capacity Building
  • Collaboration Facilitation
  • Summits and Events
  • And so much more
Methods
  • Digital campaigns and tools
  • Grassroots mobilization
  • Network Syndication
  • Collaborative Campaigning
  • Agile Learning
Fields
  • Climate Change and Environmental Justice
  • Democracy and Political Engagement
  • Social Justice and Equity
  • Human Rights
  • First Nations Rights
  • Government and Corporate Accountability
  • Migration and Refugee Support
MembershipOver 20 million (2024)
Official language
English, Spanish, German, French, Portuguese
Executive Director
Giovanna Negretti
OPEN Executive Council
Key people
  • Matt Blizek (Deputy ED)
  • Benajamin Mort (CTO)
  • Ranjani Rajashekaran (Director of Finance and Operations)
Affiliations
Revenue$1.3 million (2024)
Expenses$1.3 million (2024)
FundingFoundations, Member Dues
Staff10-25 (2024)
Websitethe-open.net
501(c)(3)

Online Progressive Engagement Network (OPEN) is a global network of digital-first, people-powered progressive campaigning organizations. Founded in 2013, OPEN fosters collaboration among national progressive organizations, equipping them with technology and strategies to accelerate social justice movements. The network operates across 18 countries, focusing on democracy, climate action, racial justice, and combating authoritarianism"Compton Foundation Grant Information". Compton Foundation..

History

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OPEN was founded with a dual mission: to support existing national progressive organizations and to incubate similar organizations worldwide. Its goal was to optimize their domestic influence while connecting them to a global network for greater impact. By 2024, OPEN had grown to include 19 member groups across 18 countries, with a focus on fostering democratic engagement and innovation, especially in the Global South"Online Progressive Engagement Network". Commons Library."About OPEN". The Open Network..

Mission and Vision

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OPEN aims to build people power by connecting, supporting, and growing progressive campaigning organizations worldwide. Its vision is a more just, equitable, and sustainable world where people can mobilize for change through cutting-edge digital tools and collaborative action. The network is committed to values of justice, equity, and solidarity in its work and governance"The Power of Digital Advocacy". Stanford Social Innovation Review..

Organisational Pillars

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Connect: OPEN connects network groups to each other and the broader progressive movement. This pillar facilitates the sharing of lessons, best practices, analysis, and innovations to foster collaboration.

Support: It provides agile support to existing network groups, helping them embed new strategies and tactics quickly and at scale. This pillar ensures that organizations have access to the most effective tools, technologies, and knowledge.

Collaborate: OPEN fosters collaboration by initiating and supporting opportunities for bi-lateral, multi-lateral, and network-wide cooperation. This pillar enables strategic, cross-network campaigns and actions.

Grow: This pillar focuses on growing the network globally, with an emphasis on equity. The aim is to increase people power to respond to complex challenges, act in solidarity, and build global movements for democracy, justice, and equality​​​.

Leadership

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In her capacity as the Executive Director, Giovanna Negretti has been instrumental in advancing the organization's mission and strategic initiatives. Since assuming the role, she has focused on enhancing community engagement and fostering partnerships that promote social equity. Under her leadership, the organization has implemented various programs aimed at empowering underserved populations, advocating for policy changes, and raising awareness about critical social issues.

Negretti's experience in leadership roles and her commitment to social justice have enabled her to navigate complex challenges effectively. She has emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making, ensuring that the organization’s strategies are informed by the needs and perspectives of the communities they serve. Her vision for inclusive growth and sustainable development has positioned the organization as a leader in its field, garnering support from various stakeholders, including government entities, private sector partners, and community members.

Programs and Activities

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OPEN supports its members through several programs designed to enhance their campaigning capacity:

  • Elections Lab: A multi-year project that provides member organizations with resources and expertise to mobilize voters and ensure accountability post-elections. The lab fosters innovations in electoral campaigning, including AI-driven content production and message testing
  • Rapid-Response Hub: This hub offers real-time data analytics, AI-driven content creation, and tailored guidance for member organizations. It allows for swift responses during critical political moments
  • Shared Digital Tools: OPEN invests in a shared technology platform, providing member groups with access to advanced software at affordable rates

Governance and Organizational Structure

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OPEN operates under a decentralized model, allowing each member organization to maintain autonomy while benefiting from shared resources. The network is governed by an executive committee and a general assembly. In 2024, OPEN introduced a new governance model focused on inclusivity and transparency, reducing power imbalances between larger and smaller member organizations"Online Progressive Engagement Network". Commons Library..

Technology and Innovation

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Technology is central to OPEN's operations. Its technology program provides member organizations with cutting-edge digital tools and training to enhance their advocacy work. OPEN is particularly noted for its focus on developing digital campaigning software and facilitating innovation through knowledge-sharing between member groups"About OPEN". The Open Network..

Member Organizations

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OPEN’s member organizations span 18 countries and are key to its global impact:

Key Campaigns

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OPEN member organizations have spearheaded numerous high-impact campaigns, including:

External Partnerships

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OPEN partners with technology providers, funders, and advocacy groups to strengthen its members' campaigning capabilities. It has collaborated with organizations like the BeCause Platform to integrate digital tools that support progressive campaigns globally"Compton Foundation Grant Information". Compton Foundation..

References

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