Matthew Eckford
Matthew Eckford is the Director, Development at Secure World Foundation. He is an accomplished development professional with extensive experience in philanthropy, partnership-building, and organizational growth. As Director of Development at the Secure World Foundation (SWF), Matthew leads efforts to secure resources and foster strategic partnerships that support SWF’s mission to ensure the sustainable use of outer space, thereby securing our common future on Earth for the benefit of all.
Matthew has a proven track record of introducing organizations to new markets and developing innovative fundraising strategies. Prior to joining SWF, he served as Senior Director of Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships at The Global FoodBanking Network (GFN), where he led a landmark partnership with the Global Methane Hub and strengthened the organization’s presence in global climate forums, including COP27 and COP28.
Before his role at GFN, Matthew led institutional fundraising at Chicago Public Media. His experience also includes securing transformative funding as Director of Strategic Partnerships at Teach For All and leading impactful resource mobilization efforts at the US Fund for UNICEF and the EastWest Institute.
Matthew is passionate about creating meaningful partnerships, empowering organizations, and driving innovative solutions to address global challenges. His entrepreneurial mindset and strategic leadership position him as a key contributor to SWF’s mission of leveraging space activities for a sustainable future.
Education
Matthew earned a BSc (Hons) in Earth Science from the University of Portsmouth in the United Kingdom.
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