No single resource model fits all contexts.
The table below gives a side-by-side comparison of the seven key resource models by highlighting:
And more.
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This overview is a practical tool to help you decide which model—or mix of models—best meets your network’s needs, values, and long-term sustainability goals.
Choose the approach that aligns with your vision and supports your network’s growth.
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| Model | Core Mechanism | Best For | Challenges | How to Succeed | Pitfalls | Key Resources |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Hive | Resource-sharing among members | Networks with strong trust & shared ownership | Unequal participation, unclear contribution agreements | Use participatory governance & clear engagement agreements | Burnout, lack of engagement from majority | Time, skills, services, expertise |
| The Bridge | Partnerships & sponsorships | Networks needing infrastructure or technical resources | Balancing commercial interests, shared expectations | Develop win-win agreements, set clear boundaries | Legal & compliance issues, misaligned goals | Financial sponsorship, knowledge access |
| The Spiral | Circular economy & resource reuse | Social enterprises & localized networks | Cultural shift, funding for adaptation | Leverage shared infrastructure & systemic resource flow | Hard to track resources, needs infrastructure | Shared assets, recycled materials, knowledge |
| The Catalyst | Revenue from events, training, services | Networks with strong convening power | High upfront costs, reaching enough customers | Design high-value services, ensure pricing accessibility | Market demand fluctuations, pricing strategy | Revenue from ticket sales & services |
| The Garden | Membership fees | Networks with a broad, engaged membership | Ensuring sustained member value, slow build-up | Develop tiered membership options & strong value proposition | Risk of exclusivity, difficulty in scaling | Recurring financial contributions |
| The Pollinator | Grants & philanthropic funding | Networks aligned with funder priorities | Dependency on funders, alignment with priorities | Create funding ecosystems & participatory governance | Funding unpredictability, requires strong relationships | Grants, funding pools, capacity-building |
| The Marketplace | Revenue-sharing from member activities | Consultant networks with strong client demand | Tracking contributions, balancing flexibility & quality | Establish clear revenue-sharing principles & service quality standards | Income inconsistency, requires transparent tracking | Shared revenue, job opportunities, expertise |
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NAVIGATION
The Bridge: Partner & Sponsorships
The Catalyst: Network Enterprise
The Pollinator: Grants & Funding
The Marketplace: Revenue Sharing
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