Remix: Scott Harrison & charity: water, 5 years later

Transparency Challenges

Charity: water's commitment to transparency is both its strength and challenge. Scott Harrison explains the organization's unique model, where 100% of public donations fund water projects, while operational costs are covered by a separate group of donors 1. This model, while inspiring trust, also imposes constraints on growth. Harrison recalls a critical moment when the organization faced insolvency, saved only by a generous donation from a skeptic turned believer 2.

We go from insolvent to a year in funding. And you know, in your business, this was a lifeline.

--- Scott Harrison

This experience underscores the delicate balance between maintaining transparency and ensuring sustainability.

   

Transparency Technology

Technology plays a crucial role in charity: water's transparency efforts. Scott Harrison highlights the development of sensor technology that monitors water projects in real-time, ensuring accountability and functionality 3. These sensors provide data on water flow, enabling timely repairs and maintenance, and have even been adopted by governments like Ghana's 3.

We created sensors that were viable. We installed thousands and thousands of them across our portfolio.

--- Scott Harrison

This technological innovation not only enhances transparency but also extends the impact of charity: water's mission beyond its direct projects.