Feasibility study for a co-innovation platform, including UI/UX, business model and ownership model

Feasibility study for a co-innovation platform, including UI/UX, business model and ownership model

01  Situation

The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) wanted to explore new ways of tackling systemic food and nutrition challenges through multi-stakeholder collaboration between governments of seven countries across the global south.

02  Assignment

Carry out a feasibility study to determine what kind of innovation platform could best strengthen collaboration across sectors and regions.

03  Approach

Applying Human-Centered Design, our team combined qualitative research and comparative analysis. We conducted empathy interviews and co-creation workshops with government officials, NGOs, CBOs and funders, while also reviewing existing challenge platforms. The feasibility study assessed three dimensions: UI/UX: User journeys and interface concepts were tested to ensure the platform could be intuitive, inclusive, and adaptable. Business model: Revenue mechanisms such as challenge hosting fees, membership tiers, and service add-ons were explored to reduce dependency on donor funding. Ownership model: Governance options were analysed to avoid single-organisation control, recommending a coalition-based structure that builds trust and shared responsibility.

04  Result

The study concluded that a shared, co-owned platform—with a user-friendly interface, a diversified business model, and coalition-led governance—would generate stronger ownership, increase sustainability, and create the enabling environment needed for scaling innovations. The platform was also envisioned as adaptable into a white-label solution, allowing partners to host their own challenges while benefiting from shared infrastructure.

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