Opening New Markets: Activists Matchmaking at New/Mode

In the digital age, advocacy work has become more accessible than ever, with countless tools and platforms offering support to campaigners who seek to create change. New/Mode has been at the forefront of this movement, providing campaigners with an array of tools to promote online advocacy. Historically, these tools have focused on empowering campaigners, allowing them to amplify their voices and mobilize people around causes they are passionate about. However, a critical element has often been missing: the role of supporters. Traditional advocacy platforms frequently engage supporters through performative actions, such as signing petitions, that rarely lead to meaningful outcomes.In this session, we will introduce Matchmaking, New/Mode's newest feature, which is still in the design and research phase. The core objective of this feature is to ensure that campaigners connect with the right supporters—individuals who are truly passionate about their cause and ready to take action. Instead of offering a one-sided approach, Matchmaking provides a platform where campaigners and supporters can collaborate effectively, ensuring that campaigns gain traction and lead to tangible change.