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The focus of the SDCN is on collaborative work. Membership in the network is dependent on involvement in communications projects with other network members. There are three levels of network membership open to organizations depending on the length and intensity of their working relationships with other network members: founding members, members, and affiliate members. Donors are also considered members of the network and are encouraged to actively learn from the SDCN's experiences. A Network Coordination Unit housed at the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) fills secretariat functions of the network.
Founding Members
Founding members include the seven organizations that were involved in the Spinning the Web project since 1996. In addition to developing projects, they ensure that our knowledge about communicating sustainable development includes the experience of developing and transitional countries, and is shared more broadly, for use beyond the network members. Founding members are:
Members
Members include civil society organizations that have been active in two or more network projects. Membership in the SDCN lasts for two years, but is renewable based on continued participation in network projects. Members work together to develop and implement joint project proposals. They also share lessons learned in executing their projects with other members and through the SD Webworks. They have access to a closed listserv and are able to market their online information through the SD Gateway and SDCN Announces distribution list. Members include:
Affiliate Members
Affiliate members include other organizations that are approached by a SDCN member to participate in a single Network project, or that approach the SDCN with a project idea of interest to at least one founding member. The SDCN is an innovation network-we recognize that many other organizations might be able to contribute to our work with new approaches, and we need mechanisms in place to draw upon the experience of others. Affiliate member status lasts only for the duration of the project. CSO affiliates may later decide to pursue additional projects and full membership with the SDCN. Current affiliates include:
Donors
Donors are welcome to attend SDCN meetings, offer suggestions for projects and have access to the Network members. Donors are also asked to provide substantive input, with particular attention to the projects they are funding, but are not asked to take the lead in SDCN projects. Donors are, however, asked to participate in individual projects, promote the activities of the SDCN, and are asked to inform the Network members of any related communications projects that they are funding outside of the SDCN. Sharing of past projects results and challenges are also encouraged. SDCN donors have included the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC).
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