What Is the New Citizen Project?
The New Citizen Project is a participation strategy and innovation consultancy that believes people, when given the right chance, can shape the things that truly matter to them. It’s not just about designing “engagement” processes — it’s about going way beyond that. Using creative strategy, social psychology, behavioural theory, and design thinking, this project crafts interventions that help organisations of all kinds involve people deeply in their work and impact. It’s about turning consumers into citizens, and that shift changes everything.
The Main Benefit: Sparking a Citizen-Led Society
At the heart of the New Citizen Project is a mission to ignite what they call the #CitizenShift — a move towards a more participatory, citizen-led society. When people see themselves as citizens rather than just consumers, they’re more likely to:
- Participate actively in community and societal issues
- Volunteer their time and skills
- Come together to strengthen society as a whole
- Step into their power and influence change
- Engage with organisations in meaningful ways
Since 2014, the project has partnered with a wide range of organisations to create strategies, cultures, and projects that invite people to do just that.
How the Project Uses Innovation and Strategy
Innovation consultancy here isn’t just a buzzword. The New Citizen Project applies creative strategy alongside behavioural science and design thinking to build interventions that really work. It’s about understanding what motivates people and designing experiences that encourage genuine participation. This approach helps organisations move beyond surface-level engagement and build lasting relationships with their communities.
Understanding the Citizen Shift
The idea of the Citizen Shift is simple but powerful. When people stop thinking of themselves as mere consumers and start seeing themselves as citizens, their mindset changes. They become more invested in the outcomes of their communities and society at large. This shift encourages collaboration, volunteering, and a stronger sense of responsibility — all crucial ingredients for a thriving society.
The Team Behind the Movement
The New Citizen Project is driven by a passionate team of experts:
- Jon Alexander – Co-Founder
- Irenie Ekkeshis – Co-Founder and Director
- Josie Harris – Projects Co-ordinator
- Anna Maria Hosford – Strategy Partner
- Polly Keane – Client Partner
- Andy Galloway – Business Director
Each member brings unique skills and perspectives, making the project a dynamic force for change.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – by fostering participation and stronger communities
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – through citizen engagement and empowerment
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – by collaborating with diverse organisations to drive change
Contact and Company Details
The New Citizen Project operates from Better Space, 127 Farringdon Road, London, EC1R 3DA. For inquiries, reach out at hello@newcitizenproject.com. The project is owned and run by Orbell & Company Ltd, a private limited company registered in England and Wales under number 06496027. It proudly holds a B Corp score of 91.1, reflecting its commitment to responsible business practices.
