OTV

Idea Lab

Idea Lab is a space to work through the real challenges facing OTV. It’s where problems are shared, ideas are explored, and solutions are shaped into action. The focus is simple—turn thinking into practical next steps that move the work forward.

Online

This is the main space. Share ideas, raise issues, and contribute anytime. It keeps discussion active and allows people to be involved wherever they are.

Face-to-face

At times, we’ll come together in person for deeper discussion, decision-making, and planning. This is where we build clarity and momentum on key issues.

If you’re interested, get in touch.

You don’t need experience—just a willingness to think, share, and help improve how we work. Get in touch: idealab@onethousandvillages.org

January 2026

Idea Lab 1: Building Capacity to Deliver Larger Projects

Problem:
We are building projects to support large numbers of families and deliver multiple activities—but our capacity must grow to achieve the results required.

Discussion:

  • What capacity do we currently have, and where are the gaps?
  • What roles, skills, or systems are missing?
  • What does a team need to look like to deliver work at this scale effectively?

Goal:
Clarify what internal capacity must look like to deliver larger, more complex projects successfully.

February 2026

Idea Lab 2: Linking Project Design to Sustainable Funding

Funding individual activities (such as a single toilet project) is achievable, but it does not by itself create sustainable funding for OTV operations.

Discussion points:

  • How does project scale influence funding outcomes?
  • What do funders need to see to commit to larger, ongoing support?
  • How should we design projects differently to support both impact and sustainability?

Goal:
Improve how we design projects so they generate sustainable operational funding for OTV.

March 2026

Idea Lab 3: Re-engaging Australian Support

Attention has shifted. With the war in Iran and the cost of living skyrocketing, Australians are focused elsewhere—and OTV is not front of mind.

If we want to grow support, we need to actively bring OTV back into view and clearly explain the problem we are solving.

Discussion points:

  • How do we re-engage Australians and rebuild awareness of OTV?
  • How do we clearly and simply explain the problem OTV exists to solve?
  • What messages, stories, or approaches will genuinely connect and cut through?

Goal:
Strengthen how we communicate OTV’s purpose so more people understand the problem we solve—and choose to support the work.