Phase 1

Proof of Concept

Foundation & Validation • 12–18 months

The transition from vision to reality begins with a clearly defined Proof of Concept (PoC) phase. This 12–18 month foundational stage is the disciplined first step in testing the integrated PSC model under real-world conditions. All work follows formal project management principles, including clear scope, milestone planning, risk management, governance, and regular reporting.

Objectives

• Establish and test a working three-way partnership model (Community + Private + Government)
• Demonstrate meaningful community ownership through structured co-design
• Deliver the first physical and social infrastructure (Learning & Skills Hub, initial housing, and care facilities)
• Generate early economic activity through skills development and small-scale local production
• Produce credible data on costs, timelines, risks, and social impact
• Build the governance and operational foundations required for long-term success

Proof of Concept Model

Foundation and Validation – 12–18 months

Phase 1: Proof of Concept Infographic – Timeline, Objectives, Milestones and Success Criteria

Key Work Packages

Site Selection and Due Diligence

Identification, assessment, and securing of a suitable pilot site.

Partnership Formalisation

Establishment of a formal, legally robust partnership structure with clear roles and community representation.

Community Co-Design and Engagement

Genuine participation of future residents in shaping layout, systems, and economic activities.

Planning, Design and Approvals

Master planning, detailed design, impact assessments, and necessary approvals.

Governance and Operational Systems

Management structures, financial systems, procurement policies, and reporting frameworks.

Infrastructure and Programme Implementation

Construction of priority facilities and rollout of training and care programmes.

Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning and Reporting

Practical measurement framework and documentation of lessons learned.

Timeline and Key Milestones

Months 1–4

Site secured and partnerships formalised — Signed agreements and governance charter.

Months 4–8

Master plan and detailed designs approved — Implementation-ready designs and budget.

Months 8–14

Core infrastructure under construction — Learning Hub, first housing, and care facilities.

Months 12–16

Training and early production launched — First cohorts trained and small-scale output.

Months 16–18

PoC evaluation and close-out — Comprehensive report and scaling plan.

Human Resources: Key Roles

Core Team (Essential Roles)

Project Lead / Programme Manager

Overall leadership, coordination, risk management, and day-to-day decision-making.

Community Engagement & Social Facilitator

Leading community co-design, building trust, and ensuring genuine participation.

Technical Lead (Infrastructure & Design)

Site assessment, master planning coordination, and construction management.

Skills Development & Training Coordinator

Designing and overseeing initial training programmes linked to early production and care.

Finance, Governance & Administration Lead

Financial management, procurement, compliance, and governance setup.

Extended / Support Team (Flexible Roles)

Roles that can be engaged part-time or on contract as needed:

• Legal & Governance Advisor
• Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL) Specialist
• Production / Enterprise Development Advisor

• Health & Care Systems Advisor
• Environmental & Social Impact Specialist
• Communications & Documentation Support

Definition of Success

• Functioning and documented partnership and governance model
• Evidence of genuine community ownership and participation
• Completed priority infrastructure and operational programmes
• Reliable data on costs, timelines, risks, and social outcomes
• A clear, evidence-based plan for the next phase

Funding Approach

The Proof of Concept phase requires a blend of grant funding and catalytic capital. A detailed budget will be developed once the pilot site and core partners are confirmed.