OCB partnered with UBC for a research project on non-profits’ fundraising capacities. The initiative, which brought together students and advocacy groups, has been key to OCB’s partnership and outreach strategy.
Last fall, Our Community Bikes (OCB) partnered with students from the Master of Management (MM) program at UBC Sauder School of Business, supporting their Community Business Project. The Community Business Project is a cornerstone of UBC Sauder’s MM program; designed to connect passionate students with non-profit organizations, providing consulting support and actionable advice on real-world challenges. Organizations benefit from innovative, actionable strategies developed by students, and students in turn receive practical application of their business tools.
For OCB, this collaboration was an opportunity to address one of its core goals: establishing a fundraising plan for the Capital Campaign and expanding the non-profit’s impact in the local community.
“The Capital Campaign, initiated by OCB in April 2024, seeks to support OCB’s relocation to a new facility, enabling the organization to sustain and expand its vital programs and operations for the benefit of the community.“
The project kicked off in September, with two groups of five Sauder students examining OCB’s operations, mission, and community impact. Over a four-month period, the students worked closely with OCB staff and stakeholders to devise partnership opportunities that aligned with OCB’s core values and supported its long-term vision of equitable, accessible, and sustainable transportation for all.
Students began by interviewing OCB staff, volunteers, and board members to understand the organization’s needs and challenges. They also contacted the broader community through surveys, gathering input from OCB’s customers, donors, and program participants. Through these efforts, the students identified five key values that define OCB’s mission and impact—values that can be leveraged to align with potential corporate partners.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)
Programs like Pedals for the People (PFTP), Deaf Access Nights, and Women Trans Queer (WTQ) Nights underscore OCB’s deep commitment to equity and inclusion, providing equitable access to cycling for underserved and underrepresented populations. These initiatives address systemic barriers and create opportunities for marginalized communities by promoting fair access to transportation and cycling resources.
Affordability
Affordability is central to OCB’s operations. The organization enables access to bike repairs, resources, and bicycles through a model built on donations and volunteer efforts. By actively addressing financial barriers, OCB ensures that transportation and exercise opportunities are within reach for community members who might otherwise face exclusion.
Sustainability
Sustainability is both a core value and an operational principle for OCB. Its leadership in recycling and reusing bike parts minimizes waste while providing affordable services. This exemplifies their environmental responsibility and resonates with corporate partners prioritizing sustainable practices.
Accessible Transportation
OCB’s mission is fundamentally about providing affordable and accessible transportation solutions. Programs like DIY repair workshops equip clients with the tools and skills they need to integrate cycling into their daily lives, promoting autonomy and reducing reliance on costly transportation alternatives.
Health and Wellness
Cycling as a form of active transportation, enhances both physical and mental well-being. OCB’s initiatives foster healthier lifestyles within the community, supporting fitness and mental health through programs and resources that encourage regular activity.
These five core values provide a solid foundation for OCB to form meaningful partnerships with organizations that share its mission. The students’ report utilized these values to create an actionable timeline and clear roadmap to help OCB secure impactful and lasting corporate partnerships for its Capital Campaign. In November, the student team compiled their findings and presented their work to OCB staff , outlining key opportunities for partnerships and practical tools to pursue them.
This partnership between OCB and UBC Sauder showcases the power of collaboration in addressing non-profit organizational challenges. As OCB moves forward, the tools and strategies developed during this project will hopefully play a key role in shaping its future.
By forging partnerships with like-minded organizations, OCB is building a foundation for sustainable growth and long-term impact. This collaboration is a testament to what can be achieved when students, non-profit organizations, and communities come together to create change. For OCB, it’s just the beginning of a new chapter.
