This program, operated since 2012, is a continuation of earlier actions implemented by PAFF to support the use of modern information and communication technologies in local development and civic activity. Its purpose is to broaden the knowledge and increase the skills of NGO activists and employees for effective ICT use in their daily work.
The program was preceded by an analysis conducted by the Shipyard Foundation, as well as consultations with Polish and international experts. Information was gathered and published about the advancement of non-governmental organizations in utilizing digital tools, including adequate knowledge and competencies of their staff.
Under the program, thematic training for NGOs was carried out showing examples of effective use of modern technologies in communication, marketing, and management. Some of the NGOs received grants to buy hardware and software as well as to carry out projects aimed at practical use of ICT in the third sector.
The program offer included a Mobile ICT Advisors’ Network. So far they have provided over 9,000 pieces of consultations; almost 15,000 NGO representatives from across Poland benefited from their help.
Mobile Advisors support was supplemented by a network of TechClubs. These cyclical meetings of experts, representatives of business, local governments, and academia helped share experience in applying modern technologies. They attracted more than 18,000 people.
Currently, the focus is mainly on delivering knowledge that helps identify potential areas where NGOs can employ ICT. To this end, the Sector 3.0 blog showcases diverse technological solutions that aid the digital transition of NGOs, while the elearning.sektor3-0.pl platform offers online courses since its launch in 2022.
The Program also offers funds and expert support for new ICT tools that can be used by non-profit organizations such as the Sector 3.0 Innovation Fund. The Fund channeled support to projects like the TuDu e-volunteering portal, the “Patients for Patients” application for patients with chronic diseases, and the “Search: Induction Loop” database of locations and events where an induction loop is available for the hearing impaired to enable them to better enjoy their social lives.
Annual international conferences, “Sector 3.0” Festivals, play an important role in the program. These events attract representatives from non-governmental organizations, business ICT experts, politicians, scientists, and foreign experts from the USA, the UK, South Korea, Israel, and India. They offer a platform to share information about modern trends in how to utilize ICTs for social/civic actions. 12,000 people participated in 14 rounds of the Sector 3.0 conference held in Warsaw in 2011-2024. Due to the pandemic, from 2020 to 2022 the Festival was held exclusively online. The 2024 hybrid event attracted more than 1,000 attendees.
For ten years now, the Sector 3.0 Award serves as a token of appreciation for Polish NGOs who make innovative use of ICTs in their daily operations for the purpose of fulfilling their mission. The 2024 Award went to the Center for Citizenship Education Foundation.
PAFF has disbursed $5,495,901, including $177,585 for the current edition.
