Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the sabbatical program for social sector leaders?
The Cocoon Initiative is an invitation to take a pause, slowdown and go within oneself for rest and care. It is an opportunity for a civil society leader to take a break from their work to rest, rejuvenate, reflect and revive their core strengths, clarify their purpose and heal their body, mind and spirit from years of having given fully into one’s cause. The program provides leaders an opportunity to have an extended break from their work for personal rejuvenation. - Who is eligible to participate in the sabbatical program?
This initiative is only applicable to social sector leaders. Persons wishing to apply for this support need to fulfil the following criteria :
a) Should have been part of an organisation and/or development sector for a minimum of 10 years
b) Should be in a leadership position in their current role (Entrepreneur, Founder, CEO, CXO)
c) Should be based and working in India in the development sector
d) The organisation will need to have a valid FCRA licence to receive this support
e) Only those will be eligible whose organisations cannot provide them financial support during their sabbatical or do not have policies in place for sabbatical support
Eligibility criteria for applications exclude organisations with religious, political affiliations, social enterprises, and intermediary organisations. - How long is the typical duration of this sabbatical?
The initiative will provide support for a sabbatical taken for a minimum of 3 months to a maximum of 1 year and up to a fixed amount of support that is mutually decided. - Are there any opportunities for professional development provided during the sabbatical?
No. While participants are encouraged to pursue individual personal or professional interests, in the true spirit of the sabbatical, it’s time to take a step back, rest, rejuvenate and to invest in one’s well being and care. - Can participants use the sabbatical time for personal projects or initiatives?
Yes. However, the idea is not to pursue an alternative job or professional projects as we encourage participants to use this time to rest and rejuvenate. - How does the program support participants in maintaining connections with their organisation during the sabbatical?
The organisation should be on strong footing with an identified second line of leader/s and Board stepping up during the sabbatical process wherein the individual should be able to completely cut-off from the organisation during the time of the sabbatical. - What is the application process, and what criteria are considered for selection?
The application process for the program is outlined here - How does the program ensure a smooth transition for leaders returning to their roles after the sabbatical?
The program’s purpose is to provide the pathway to taking a break for social sector leaders. The leader is expected to plan for the smooth transition out of and back into the organisation after the sabbatical period is over. We are happy to guide the reintegration to the extent possible. - Can I use the grant provided through this initiative to support my organisation?
No, the grant is meant for the individual taking the sabbatical. To maintain the sanctity of the purpose of this initiative, the grant cannot be repurposed for organisational needs. - Will I get support if I choose to take a sabbatical for more than a year?
At this stage, the initiative supports a sabbatical period of only up to a year. - Can I also get support in planning for my break?
Yes. Participants can avail high level planning support for their sabbatical. However, they are encouraged to do detailed planning with their organisation before stepping back. - Is there a peer network group I can connect to while on my sabbatical?
In this inaugural phase of the initiative, the groundwork is being laid for the eventual formation of a peer network group as we progress into the next phase of this program. - Can leaders from social enterprises/ for profit organisations also apply for this support?
In its current phase, this program exclusively caters to leaders within nonprofit organisations. - When can I take a sabbatical?
The timing of the sabbatical can be decided by you in consultation with us. There are no fixed dates and its as per your’s and your organisation’s preparedness. - What is the amount of sabbatical support I can receive?
The amount will be mutually decided between the applicant and us. It will be equivalent to your current salary and possibly any additional support required for specific things. We would request an estimated budget from the applicant and use that to decide the financial support for the sabbatical. - Can I get financial support for my sabbatical even when we have a sabbatical policy in my organisation?
No. You cannot avail the financial support if you are already able to get support from your organisation as part of your sabbatical policy. This initiative is designed for those leaders whose organisations don’t have a sabbatical policy. - Can I use my sabbatical time to do other paid projects, assignments or consultancies?
No. This will defeat the purpose of the sabbatical.