NetHope and Start Network have published results from a year of work intended to strengthen the digital readiness of local and national humanitarian organisations. Their joint account, dated 24 September, says 28 national and subnational organisations accessed training and resources through NetHope Connected.
Training covered operational decisions
The reported learning areas included cybersecurity, digital fundraising, responsible use of emerging technologies and digital strategy. The partners say participating organisations used materials to review internal protocols, data safety and participant confidentiality, including in digital templates for legal-aid intake and community protection assessments.
AI governance moved into programme practice
The partnership also included training on AI for nonprofits and support for Start Network to develop an organisational AI policy. Save Somali Women & Children received a grant through NetHope Connected and, according to the partners, is using it to strengthen institutional readiness and embed responsible AI practices in protection programming for women and children.
Reported uptake, with important caveats
The partners state that 78% of survey respondents had applied learning to their organisations' digital operations or practices. Neither publication gives the survey sample size, response rate or an independent evaluation method, so the percentage cannot establish sector-wide effectiveness. It is best read as an early implementation signal from participating organisations.
A model for funders and networks to test
The useful decision point is the combination of shared training, small grants, peer exchange and policy support rather than a stand-alone technology purchase. Funders considering similar programmes should ask for baseline measures, participation and completion data, follow-up evidence, safeguarding outcomes and the staff time required to turn learning into working controls.