Fix Forward – Building experts: An exemplary case of a hybrid organization and its quest for financial independence

Fix Forward (FF) is a social enterprise based in Cape Town, South Africa. The organisation’s by line – 'building experts' – speaks to both the mission of the organisation and the focus of their work. Financial independence is important for hybrid organisations – supporting the creation of social value. Yet, hybrid organisations are required to work conscientiously towards this goal, often initially reliant on donors and grants, seeking to reduce this as the organisation mature. The institutional context may vary, with considerable latitude in how ‘self-sustaining’ and 'market-generated revenues' are defined and understood. Looking at FF through the lens of theory about hybrid organising helps us to see the ways in which the tensions in hybrid organisations can be managed, as well as highlighting some of the challenges involved in delivering on the goals of a dual mission, and financial sustainability.