Catalyst Program
Catalyst Program
Amplifying impact to invest in the future
Science has an important role to play in shaping our shared future—it helps us to understand the world around us, including our challenges and opportunities, and to identify options and tradeoffs. Our work at COMPASS is to help people doing and using science to communicate their work in ways that are meaningful, relevant, and useful. We’ve been doing this since 1999, so we know how to support people as they amplify their impact through strategic communication and collaboration. We also know that real change requires consistent and persistent support, and that’s what the COMPASS Catalyst Program is designed to provide.
We named it the Catalyst Program because, while change takes time, often there is a catalyzing event that sparks new insights and possibilities. Over the years that we have been doing this work, we have seen firsthand how strategic communication has the power to be a catalyst for change, and how investing in people’s communication and collaboration skills provides long-lasting amplification effects, leading to impact not just for the duration of a project, but throughout people’s lives and careers. Supporting both the science, and the people doing and using it, is where real change happens.
Powerful & Flexible
We collaborate with many institutions and boundary organizations operating at the intersections of environment, communication, policy, and society.
Interactive Workshops
Our virtual workshops offer the tools, strategies, and hands-on practice & feedback that people need to achieve their goals and amplify the impact of their work.
Staff at participating organizations can flexibly attend workshops throughout the year, based on their needs and interests. We offer workshops on a variety of relevant and timely topics. Learn more
Strategic Coaching
Our experienced and caring team provides personalized attention and feedback, in either 1:1 or small-group team sessions, preparing and equipping people to strategically respond as situations unfold.
Whether it’s giving an interview to a journalist, meeting with policymakers, preparing for a presentation, or identifying goals and audiences, we support every step of the way. Learn more
Monthly Office Hours
Office hours provide a consistent opportunity for people to share their experiences, build their network, and ask questions of our experienced facilitators and others in the Catalyst Program. Regular opportunities to support each other help people build their skills, connections, and confidence—keeping them ready and effective as communication opportunities and challenges come up.
Timely Events
Our innovative, talented team is constantly developing and sharing relevant new content and learning experiences.
Be part of the leading edge of strategic communication and collaboration through periodic events and opportunities!
Contact Us
Want to know more about the Catalyst Program? Schedule a chat with us!
“
You know your COMPASS training worked when a congressional staffer repeats your message back to you more than a year later!
~ Dr. Jennifer Balch, Director at Earth Lab