Loyal manages a network of 400+ companies and after talking to founders on a monthly basis, the team has noticed that personal wellbeing among entrepreneurs is a critical resource that doesn't always get the attention it deserves.
To offer portfolio founders structured support, Loyal conducted a Pilot Peer Group Project to determine the most effective framework. The proposed framework is based on the feedback from this pilot.
Ilona Hassan, a Loyal Advisor, will manage this initiative on behalf of Loyal and can be contacted for any ongoing questions and suggestions.
Facilitators will have an option to participate in facilitator-peer-exchange calls quarterly for the purpose of networking, exchanging experiences and discussing any ongoing issues with the groups.
It’s up to the group to decide whether they want to have a group chat or not. In the Pilot groups we did not have chats, because the founders felt it would be overwhelming.
We aim for 8 people initially, expecting possible attrition. The groups work well with 4 to 8 people.
We found that the same time zone was the most important factor in a group alignment. Other factors may be considered if there is more than one group in the same region. Other factors to discuss include: penalties for missed sessions, communication channels, tardiness, etc.
It’s up to the group to agree on penalties for missed sessions, i.e. 2 missed sessions results in automatic elimination from the group. Participation commitment is a crucial part of this to work. An integrity conversation may be useful at the alignment session.
Founders will sign an agreement that includes them in the equity-sharing distribution pool at a reduced rate (compared to advisors).
Important to note that the Facilitators will moderate the conversation flow rather than coach, ensuring a safe space for sharing and equal participation. Sessions will follow a round-table format with no pre-set agenda, allowing topics to emerge from the sharing.
For organizational questions it’s best to send it in an email to the group, instead of using a session time.
Facilitators will have freedom to lead as they see best, because they will have to work with a group and adapt to the group’s cultural profile. The objective is to steer towards an authentic and honest sharing, not a place to brag or look good. The sessions are confidential. That means the founders are not at competition, not acting as advisors, mentors or coaches for each other, they are not here to teach each other, they are here to connect, share and support, i.e. speaking from “I” and “in my experience” position.
Loyal will send feedback surveys after 5 sessions and again after 10 sessions. Results will be shared with all facilitators and the Loyal team but will not be shared with your group members.
The group will have a chance to continue with the same facilitator on mutually agreed terms outside of Loyal’s purview. They will have the option to continue without facilitation, following the same session format.
Facilitators can offer their own paid services after the 10 sessions, either individually or continue as a group, though Loyal will not facilitate these arrangements, therefore it will be arranged directly between the facilitator and participating founders.
