Purpose
We believe that doing good can always be done better.
We are a passionate mission-driven organisation, and for over 15 years, we've sat at the intersection of design thinking, technology and international development. We fuse diverse expertise to help governments and purpose driven organisations to address complex global challenges.
We see digital as a key enabler of effective development practice, and when paired with a comprehensive understanding of international challenges, and creative problem solving, it has the potential for profound positive change.
We have used this approach across 26 countries to deliver real impact. We've helped double skilled birth attendance rates in Timor-Leste, introduced digital-first social protection programs, enhanced government transparency, and transformed traditional approaches to skills development across the Pacific.
At the heart of the Catalpa, is our commitment to help drive positive social impact, and champion collaborations that spark transformative change in the lives of people.
Using digital to amplify positive impact
In Timor-Leste there are more SIM Cards than people, and by 2030 around 91% of Pacific Islanders are expected to be using smartphones. As access expands, user expectations are changing. This presents a timely opportunity for governments and programs to improve how services are delivered to people.
The use of digital technology in international development should be firmly rooted in its capacity to drive social change, achieve social benefits, and produce tangible development outcomes.
Our values and principles help us remain focused on the purpose of our work, and our commitment to delivering programs with integrity.
We put people first
In all we do, we aim to improve and support the lives of people.
We focus on what matters
We do work we believe in, and focus on the change we want to create.
We learn and get better
We are committed to continuous improvement, because we achieve more when we combine our passion with ability.
We are kind and share
Nice people work here. We believe inclusivity and collaboration begin with sharing and being kind.
We value ideas over hierarchy
Great ideas are great, no matter who they come from. We all listen and build together.
We’re a genuine partner
When our partners succeed, we succeed. We share the wins and the losses.
Change takes time
We're in it for the long haul, we persist, we grind it out, because we know that societies and systems don’t change overnight.
Discover our work
Timor-Leste
Equipping teachers with confidence in the classroom
To improve student learning, Matenek addresses teachers’ skills, motivation and access to resources
Timor-Leste
Roadways for national growth
Better access to schools, healthcare and jobs through improved road management and planning
Timor-Leste
A digital system to manage rural development in Timor-Leste
Supporting rural development through end-to-end project management, data collection, analysis and reporting
