About RightsStart Alliance
Why We Exist
RightsStart Alliance is an advisory firm helping turn bold ideas into lasting impact.
The world is at a dangerous moment. Inequality is deepening, civic space is shrinking, and hard-won human rights gains are under threat.
Social impact organisations are responding with courage and creativity, but often face fragile, short-term, or insufficient support.
At the same time, many funders—individuals, foundations, and businesses—want to step up but are not always sure where to begin or how to make a meaningful difference.
In this environment, thoughtful strategy, strong foundations and sustainable resourcing matter more than ever.
What We Do
That is where RightsStart Alliance comes in.
We help build, strengthen and resource organisations so they can create lasting change.
We work with funders and social impact organisations, with particular expertise in supporting founders and early-stage initiatives.
Our advice spans strategy, structure, organisational development and sustainable resourcing, helping organisations build the strong foundations they need to maximise their impact.
Sharing Learning
Alongside our advisory work, we share learning through the RightsStarters podcast, insights and our pro bono Where History Happened project, which explores the history of social change while encouraging support for non-profits continuing that work today.
Across our advisory work and the learning we share, we draw on our own experience and amplify the ideas, stories and perspectives of founders, practitioners, researchers and other experts working to create lasting social change.
How We Work - Our Values
Our values shape everything we do, how we work, and who we work with.
Guide – We are the guide, not the hero. We help turn your vision into lasting impact.
Integrity – We are honest, transparent, and thoughtful, a trusted advisor and partner.
Trust – We believe in the work of social impact organisations and build trust-based relationships between funders and changemakers.
Community – We know change is collective, and strong relationships are at the heart of it.
Warmth – We bring care, humour, and humanity to even the most serious work.
Who We Are - Our People
RightsStart Alliance was founded by Rupert Abbott, a human rights advocate and strategist with over two decades of experience helping build, strengthen and resource social impact organisations. He brings extensive experience working at the intersection of philanthropy and human rights.
We work with a trusted network of consultants to deliver tailored advice and support.
Director
Supporting Our Local Community
While our work is global, RightsStart Alliance is rooted in Brighton & Hove, England, where our founder grew up and where we are now based.
We are committed to supporting our local community through donations and pro bono support to organisations making a positive difference across the city. We are also proud members of Brighton Chamber, supporting collaboration across Brighton & Hove's business community.
Brighton & Hove’s only drop-in day centre for young people aged 16–25 experiencing homelessness, supporting them to build stability and move towards a more secure future.
A long-standing local charity supporting residents in Brighton’s North Laine, working to protect the character of the area and promote the wellbeing of those living there.
A not-for-profit membership organisation bringing businesses together to connect, collaborate and help Brighton & Hove thrive.