Empowerment in Grassroots Organisations: The Role of Holacracy - A Dutch Case Study

Abstract

This research examines how Holacracy, a decentralised governance structure most commonly used in corporate contexts, operates within the grassroots organisation Grounded to evaluate its potential applicability to similar volunteer-based organisations. As societal challenges increasingly demand bottom-up approaches, grassroots organisations are essential; however, their reliance on volunteers requires conditions that foster meaningful and lasting engagement. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of Holacracy on empowerment, guided by the question: “What role does Holacracy play in empowering members of the grassroots organisation Grounded?”. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with core members to understand the key elements of practising Holacracy within the organisation. Furthermore, focus groups and follow-up interviews were conducted with general members to explore their experience of empowerment within a Holacratic structure, in consideration of foundational theories of empowerment. Although only partial adoption of Holacracy is attainable due to the infrequent presence of voluntary members, findings suggest that it fosters autonomy and supports personal growth in a grassroots setting. However, the dynamic nature of grassroots organisations necessitates ongoing instruction of Holacratic principles to new members. This study highlights the value of decentralised governance structures in cultivating empowered engagement within grassroots organisations and underlines the potential for addressing societal issues through institutional support of such organisations. Future research should build on this study to develop schemes to adapt Holacracy to volunteer-based grassroots contexts.