Ecosystem Support

Ecosystems are a group of interconnected elements linked by the interaction of individuals and communities with their environment. Ecosystem building is the linking and leveraging of networks to strengthen and support the networks of interdependent communities and individuals.

Ecosystem builders tackles deeply entrenched and complex social problems by addressing the culture (the unspoken rules) of the system. It is an innovative and structured approach to collaborating across sectors to achieve a fertile context for system-wide growth.

LeadLocal has partnered with Cohado to offer guidance, tools, and support specifically designed for ecosystem builders. We support you and your network in the development of a clear vision and movement toward a future that maximizes outcomes for all–while eliminating wasted time, expenses, and energy.

In ecosystems development process is product.

Fostering vibrant and emergent ecosystems asks us to embrace a paradigm shift, a cultural evolution. This cultural evolution is necessary because our communities and systems have evolved from oppressive hierarchical power structures. Hierarchies are not inclusive or equitable—by design.

In the U.S. there are pervasive, cultural practices that govern our interactions and reinforce patterns of inequity in the distribution of opportunity, resources, wealth, and power. These practices divide us, maintain the status quo, and extract wealth.

This hierarchal structure replicates itself at all levels. It fractures communities, limits system intelligence, and yields significant and persistent waste. Assets remain locked at the margins and the ecosystem grows increasingly fragile.

Wholeness cannot emerge unless the structure of the system evolves. The only way to do this is to bridge the assets from the margins to the center. This action brings resources where they are needed and works to foster trust, respect, and reciprocity that heals communities.

Boundary spanning relationships can then evolve to sustain the flow information, opportunity, resources, wealth, and power throughout the system, growing and strengthening, cultivating ecosystem health and vitality.

CoLead’s dynamic approach draws its inspiration and structure from the strategic lens of Cohado and supports the development of a vision  that centers belonging, maximizes co-leadership, and eliminates waste of time, talent, and treasure.

The Cohado^® Strategic Development Process that provides a foundation for work is structured to engage critical stakeholders at every phase of the process to ensure that the the interests and needs of the whole community are woven into the fabric of the initiative in a way that allows the system to emerge as whole and vibrant.

Work with us!