Networks of people living with HIV have made a significant impact through their contributions at all levels, and in key priority thematic areas in policy, technical and service delivery systems. However, in an era of expanded treatment access, continuously evolving policy priorities, and increased demand for service provision, the needs of PLHIV networks regarding capacity issues, sustainability and resources must be addressed if their contributions are to continue to be successful.

Funding agencies and donors have been providing considerable support to PLHIV networks to address the above needs. Support has come from decision and policy makers who advocate for the inclusion of and support to PLHIV networks. The partnerships between funding agencies and PLHIV networks imply the need for continuous dialogue. This is especially true given the diversity of stakeholders, local settings with specific needs, and priority areas of partners. To facilitate constructive and appropriate partnerships between PLHIV networks and funding agencies, the First Donor Consortium Conference was held in March 2006 to articulate the challenges, success factors and ways forward most relevant to all parties involved.

Two years later, the Second Donor Consortium Conference was held 17-19 March 2008 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. This follow up meeting was organized and hosted by the Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+) and Young Positives (YP). Over 45 participants from 17 countries, representing 30 national, regional and international networks as well as donor organisations, shared their vision in a remarkable, open discussion.