Ajsela, you are the person who can tell us all about the how and what of grant applications. Fire away: what do you do for MindLabs in that area?
At MindLabs, a huge number of innovative ideas and potential projects come together. One project could especially use the spotlight. Other ideas need some start-up capital in the form of grants to gain momentum. Or to make its implementation at all possible. It's up to me to use my grant sensor, advise on topics that might qualify, and guide applications. So I have to be aware of all the ideas that exist within the ecosystem. And I have to prioritize and pick out the biggest contenders. Because MindLabs is such a vibrant partnership that I could easily be working there 365 days a year. But I only have one day a week....
What does that support process to MindLabs look like? Are you involved from advice to application? Or in part of the whole?
It varies from project to project; I get flown in at totally different times. It's just where the greatest need is. Some parties have their subsidies sensors naturally switched on and can mainly use help with the complex application process. Other parties have less of a signalling function. In that case, I help right from the organizing of the ideas and take them through the thought process of a grantmaker.
Since when have you been associated with MindLabs?
I have been working for MindLabs for about 4 months now. From ERAC, I've already had the chance to look into MindLabs' kitchen for a while, advising on program design with a number of colleagues. Now I get to participate practically in what gives the programs hands and feet; the projects.
How does your work for MindLabs differ from the work you do for ERAC clients?
In some ways my work is very much the same, in other ways it's completely different. Because basically the process of getting to a successful application is the same. But whereas at ERAC I am often deployed on an ad hoc basis at a more advanced stage of the process and for one specific request for help, at MindLabs I try to bring systematics into stimuli from all sides. I therefore wear many hats; I often function as a sorting center for ideas, but also regularly as a process supervisor for the subsidy application of a specific project.
Which part of a MindLabs process do you enjoy doing?
I love sitting around the table with different people and hearing what innovative ideas they have. As far as I'm concerned, the innovative power of MindLabs has long been proven; there are so many good plans! Even better: these plans are never separated from a social goal. So it's not just technological tours de force, but they also appeal to me as a human being. You just want to be part of it.
And what do you especially like to outsource?
I don't have the luxury of outsourcing work yet. But I haven't really missed it so far either. Although I must say: my heart lies mainly in working with new ideas. Now I pick up where there is a need. In time I might want to focus on the first phases of the process. All the technical stuff towards the end of the process I would then outsource a bit more.
How will you celebrate big moments? Great milestones or grants awarded, for example?
I haven't really thought about that yet. I think I'm going to be very happy mainly because of the social gain we're making. Because some projects within MindLabs can really mean a revolution! The idea that together we can make the world a little better is enough for me. And if I can then let myself be pulled along in the wave of inspiration and effervescence within the ecosystem, I am a happy person.
Does your help to MindLabs mean that you are also completely at home in the world of technology?
I did read up very well prior to this collaboration, but I'm not an expert. To be honest, I'm less interested in knowing how something works technically. For me it's mainly about how you use it to achieve a broader goal. To achieve social goals, for example, and to bring about change. That is what I find important.
We are going to finish. Then you can move on too. What is next on your agenda? Back to work on your grant applications? Or will it be a cup of coffee or something stronger?
First a cup of coffee and some fresh air. And then back to work for MindLabs, yes. Because there is still plenty to do!