Meet the partners through CHANGE project: DIF

December 2023

In the world of sports, fostering growth, collaboration, and active participation is essential. National Sports Federations play a vital role in driving the sports landscape of their respective countries. DIF, the National Olympic Committee and Sports Confederation of Denmark, is no exception. With a mission focused on enhancing sports participation and supporting the growth of 62 sports federations, DIF has carved a significant niche in the realm of sports governance.

What is DIF, and what is its mission?

DIF, the National Olympic Committee and Sports Confederation of Denmark, is committed to fostering sports involvement and fostering the development of 62 sports federations within its purview. Its vision emphasizes the integral role of sports in Danish society, both on and off the field, fostering unity and excitement. DIF’s mission is to propel Denmark forward through sports, volunteerism, and enjoyment, fostering notable accomplishments and societal cohesion within its diverse sports associations.

How does DIF support sports federations in Denmark?

DIF acts as an advocate and support system for sports federations, providing assistance with advocacy and facilitating collaboration with the Danish government. Additionally, DIF supports the federations in achieving their ambition through general support (e.i education; digitalization; legal guidance etc.). One of its primary roles is to facilitate strategic development and enhance operational efficiency, especially for smaller sports federations.

What is the organizational structure of DIF?

DIF has a unique structure, primarily connecting with sports federations rather than individual clubs and athletes. The organization is led by a chief director and governed by a board composed of thirteen members, elected by the general assembly composed of the 62 federations. Various departments, such as Development, Communication and Public Affairs, ensure effective operations and outreach.

What projects is DIF actively engaged in?

DIF is involved in several projects aimed at increasing sports accessibility and encouraging active lifestyles among the Danish population. Notable initiatives include final tournaments for 33 federations held in the same location, as well as the Royal Run, which promotes public participation in running activities. Another significant project is the DIF Soldiers project, which aims to support injured veterans, both psychologically and physically, in finding their way back to an independent and meaningful life. DIF also distributes funds to the federations from Danske Lotterispil, partly based on strategic agreements with DIF, which includes many interesting projects and sports development initiatives across the 62 federations.

How’s DIF’s participating in the CHANGE Project?

Before the CHANGE Project, DIF participated in the CHAMP Project, which aimed to aid sports federations and clubs in their development. The CHANGE Project focuses on identifying obstacles and devising strategies for effective growth, with a strong emphasis on facilitating club development through their affiliations with federations.

What is the primary goal of the CHANGE Project, and how does it address the challenges faced by federations and clubs?

The primary goal of the CHANGE Project is to provide direct and swift solutions to the challenges hindering federations and clubs from developing. It aims to create tools and strategies that inspire clubs to grow through their relationships with federations. The project also emphasizes self-reflection as a means of improvement and knowledge sharing among sports organizations.

In summary, DIF plays a pivotal role in Danish sports by supporting and advocating for sports federations. Through innovative projects like the CHANGE Project, they’re committed to addressing challenges and driving the growth and development of clubs and federations across the nation.

CHANGE – Cooperation for Change Management and Innovation in Sports is a 36-month project involving 11 partners from 9 different countries:
  • European Non-Governmental Sports Organisation (ENGSO) – Sweden
  • Malmö University (MAU) – Sweden
  • N3xt sports – Spain
  • European Association for Sport management (EASM) –  The Netherlands
  • Organizzazione Per l’Educazione allo Sport (OPES) – Italy
  • Latvian Sports Federations Council (LSFC) – Latvia
  • World Snowboard Federation (WSF) –  Austria
  • Union of sports Federations in Catalunya (UFEC) – Spain
  • Basics sports club (Basics) – Belgium
  • Sport and Sustainability International (SandSI) – Switzerland
  • The National Olympic Committee and Sports Confederation of Denmark (DIF) – Denmark