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August 13, 2026

  • By Upstream Festival

Behind the Scenes of The Ocean Cleanup

Have you ever wondered how organizations tackle the complex issue of ocean pollution? Problem: As nonprofits scale, they face unique challenges in funding, infrastructure, and talent retention.

Promise: In this article, Stacey Santoso, CFO of The Ocean Cleanup, shared valuable insights at Upstream 2025 on navigating these challenges while driving meaningful impact.

Understanding the Scaling Challenges

Scaling a nonprofit organization like The Ocean Cleanup requires a multifaceted approach. Stacey highlights several key challenges that arise in this process:

  • Funding Complexity: Securing funding is not straightforward for nonprofits, particularly those involved in technology-heavy initiatives.
  • Infrastructure Needs: A solid organizational backbone is crucial for effective operations.
  • Talent Retention: High turnover rates can hinder growth, making it essential to create an environment that retains talent.

Core Strategies for Effective Scaling

According to Stacey, several strategies are vital for scaling responsibly and effectively:

  • Create a Focused Financial Strategy: Financial leadership must prioritize strategic planning to align with organizational goals.
  • Build a Supportive Infrastructure: Investing in data management, IT infrastructure, and governance is essential for operational efficiency.
  • Innovative Fundraising Mechanisms: Developing unique fundraising strategies can help sustain long-term initiatives.

The Role of Leadership in Scaling

Stacey emphasizes that leadership plays a crucial role in guiding organizations through the complexities of scaling. Key points include:

  • Decision-Making: Continuous measurement of performance through KPIs ensures that the organization stays on track.
  • Collaboration: Building partnerships can enhance capabilities and extend reach.
  • Adaptability: Organizations must remain agile to respond to changing circumstances and challenges.

Impact Measurement and Reporting

At The Ocean Cleanup, measuring impact is not just about financial returns; it also involves assessing the "return of impact." Stacey notes that effective reporting mechanisms are essential for demonstrating value to stakeholders and securing ongoing support.

Looking Ahead

The future of The Ocean Cleanup involves expanding operations in various countries while maintaining a focus on sustainability and long-term impact. Stacey encourages all stakeholders to continue supporting the mission to tackle ocean pollution.

"Without the right infrastructure, scaling becomes a challenge. We must ensure that our organization is equipped to meet our ambitious goals." - Stacey Santoso

Scaling a global impact organization like The Ocean Cleanup involves navigating numerous challenges. Stacey Santoso's insights highlight the importance of strategic planning, strong leadership, and innovative solutions in overcoming these obstacles. The commitment to cleaning oceans and promoting sustainability requires collective effort and continued support from the community.

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