The GSN’s core services and operations will be funded primarily by initial grants from Microsoft in partnership with other lead funders. Funders will be qualified based on their ability to complement the GSN’s overall vision and strategy, as well as their desire to enhance the scope of the GSN’s services.
After the first two years of operation, and once the GSN is fully functional and core services are stable, the GSC will begin seeking additional funding to support the launch of its non-core services. Non-core services will be launched only if external funding is available. Non-core service funders will be sought and qualified based on their industry and experience in a particular service. For more details, see the Five Year Rollout Plan in Section 12.1.
The GSC will assist Regional Support Networks in acquiring grants. All Regional Support Network agreements and negotiations will take place directly between the GSC and specific Regional Support Networks. Financial support for Regional Support Networks, however, will come directly from Microsoft and other funders. This funding strategy will encourage multiple input points regarding GSC funding decisions and actual Regional Support Network funding. Consequently, the GSC, Microsoft and other funders will all be involved in the strategy and execution of financial support to varying degrees.
13.21.2 Assumptions
Below is a list of assumptions underlying the financial model for the Global Support Network.
§ The GSC staff will include 8 full-time employees upon complete rollout
§ Membership in the Global Support Network is free
§ Grants for regional support networks will be distributed by Microsoft or other funders directly (i.e., funds will not flow through the GSC to disperse to Regional Support Networks)
§ The GSC will only cover the cost of initial meetings for starting new Regional Support Networks; event costs for established Regional Support Networks will either be funded by the Regional Support Network or by the grants dispersed directly by Microsoft and other lead funders
§ Due to the critical role of relationships in the service model, a significant amount of travel for the GSC staff must be allocated
§ Most content provided by the GSN will be acquired for free or funded through grants; however, a small amount of content will be generated by contractors
§ Earned revenue opportunities will account for approximately 3% of GSC revenue; revenue may be generated from one or more of the following services:
– Consulting referral fees
– Membership database licensing
– CTLC operator certification
– CTLC best practice briefings
– Technology development and distribution
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