As an NGO, you have often come across the need to write a case study. This could be either for the purpose of documenting a report, doing a research, developing a proposal or simply because you have come across an interesting incident relating to your work and you would like to capture it in words for sharing it with others.Although a case study can be about anything or it could be written in different styles, NGOs often look for a proper format to present a story. Here we are providing a quick … [Read more...] about My senior asked me to write a case study for our NGO. I have no idea how to do it. Can you help me out with this one?
Is it true that Human Resources are the biggest assets in an organization and can also help me with fundraising and donor engagement?
Yes, it is! Human resources are the lifeblood of any organization. It helps you search, recruit, and develop the fundraising talent for your organization to ensure long-term success in fundraising and donor engagement.Here at fundsforNGOs, We have designed a new downloadable EBook, "Human Resource Development for NGOs to ensure Successful Fundraising" to provide you with a detailed overview of the importance of human resource management in an NGO.Human resources are critical to the success of an … [Read more...] about Is it true that Human Resources are the biggest assets in an organization and can also help me with fundraising and donor engagement?
What type of organizations does USAID partner with?
United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is a US Government Agency that is responsible for administration of all foreign civilian aid. It was established in the year 1961, and is headquartered at Washington DC. The mission statement of USAID is to ‘to partner to end extreme poverty and to promote resilient, democratic societies while advancing the security and prosperity of the United States’.USAID partners with NGOs to achieve its strategic goals and objectives for providing … [Read more...] about What type of organizations does USAID partner with?
I am 23 years old and extremely passionate about Sustainable Development Goals. Can you please tell me how I can contribute towards achieving these goals?
Hi Friend, I would like to suggest you look at this free downloadable handbook, "UN and SDGs: A Handbook for Youth," this will surely help you a lot in achieving your goals today. This handbook seeks to bridge the gap between young people and SDGs and ultimately provide comprehensive knowledge about the UN and its regional arm, ESCAP, in connection with the Goals.As young leaders of tomorrow, it is pivotal that youth are informed and engaged with the global vision for the future. Over the next … [Read more...] about I am 23 years old and extremely passionate about Sustainable Development Goals. Can you please tell me how I can contribute towards achieving these goals?
Is there any Programme that offers exposure, recognition, and monetary prizes to students?
Yes, The 2021 MIT Water Innovation Prize is offering $35k in innovation grants to student-led teams.The 2021 MIT Water Innovation Prize - a startup competition focused on water innovation that awards innovation grants annually to student-led teams from across the country and internationally.As the main innovation-focused event of MIT Water Club, they help emerging entrepreneurs translate research & ideas into businesses, access mentors & resources, and build networks in the water … [Read more...] about Is there any Programme that offers exposure, recognition, and monetary prizes to students?
We are a newly registered organization in Australia and looking for ways to create a successful partnership with NGOs. Do you have some tips?
This is a time for collaborations, partnerships, scales and thus revolutionizing the social development milieu. Especially in the wake of corporate social responsibility and sustainability concerns finding their ways into corporate strategies across countries and geographies; the state, the private sector and the ‘third’ sector are collaborating across spaces to lead to a better, converging picture in this context. NGOs are looking forward to this shift, and so are the corporates.But finding a … [Read more...] about We are a newly registered organization in Australia and looking for ways to create a successful partnership with NGOs. Do you have some tips?
Hello, My NGO is at a growing stage and needs non-financial support. Do you know if there is a way to raise it?
Non-profits need resources to run themselves. These resources are not limited to financial resources. If properly planned and sought, non-financial resources can also play a crucial role in the growth and development of a non-profit organization. What are these non-financial resources that NGOs must look out for? How can they raise these resources? Some of these questions are answered here:What are the non-financial resources?There are many. Some examples are:In-kind gifts and … [Read more...] about Hello, My NGO is at a growing stage and needs non-financial support. Do you know if there is a way to raise it?
Where should I apply to get CSR funds for my renewable energy project in Nigeria?
Hello! EDP – Energias de Portugal has recently launched its AE2 CSR Fund Program to contribute to alleviate energy poverty by supporting sustainable and clean energy projects in remote rural areas.These projects, based on sustainable renewable energy solutions, have been contributing to the social, economic and environmental development of the rural communities in developing countries measured by its value to Sustainable Development Goals indicators.In this edition, they will support projects … [Read more...] about Where should I apply to get CSR funds for my renewable energy project in Nigeria?
What is the difference between the Theory of Change and the Logical Framework? Are they the same or different?
Hi, Both are different. There is often confusion between the Theory of Change and the Logical framework (log frame). The two concepts are closely related but still different. ToC gives the ‘big picture’ in the sense that it brings into focus the complex processes (social, economic, institutional underlying the desired change.Logical Framework, on the other hand, dwells on the activities leading to outputs, outcomes, and the Goal. A Logical Framework is usually developed after a ToC is developed. … [Read more...] about What is the difference between the Theory of Change and the Logical Framework? Are they the same or different?
Is there any program to support small scale projects in Pakistan?
Yes, the German Embassy in Pakistan has launched the Micro Projects Scheme to improve the social and economic development of the most underprivileged groups of society.For years NGOs, local committees, associations, welfare societies, schools and kindergartens have been supported on a non-profit basis.The scheme is solely for organizations based in Pakistan. Companies cannot apply.What can be funded:A project that falls in the range of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) … [Read more...] about Is there any program to support small scale projects in Pakistan?
I am from Indiana, and I would like to know if, during COVID-19, any foundation is contributing to the Nonprofits that serve youth?
Yes, during these challenging times of pandemic when the effects of it are inevitable, some foundation like Lilly Endowment is contributing towards the youth-serving Nonprofits in Indiana.For many years, the Endowment has supported youth-serving organizations focused on education success, social development, leadership and character development and child protection, among other aims. Recently, the Endowment has committed nearly $25 million in support of organizations that serve youth facing … [Read more...] about I am from Indiana, and I would like to know if, during COVID-19, any foundation is contributing to the Nonprofits that serve youth?
Hurricane Eta has affected Central Americans to a great extent, are banks or other organisations doing something for it?
Yes! Three development banks: the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the World Bank and the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) will collaborate to support the Central American countries hit hardest by Hurricane Eta.Representatives of the three development banks met virtually to marshal international resources for the Central American countries.The joint action plan will include short-, medium- and long-term financing for humanitarian aid and reconstruction … [Read more...] about Hurricane Eta has affected Central Americans to a great extent, are banks or other organisations doing something for it?
I am receiving too many forwarded messages regarding COVID-19, are agencies taking some steps to control the spread of such misinformation?
During such unprecedented times, it seems a problem to receive messages in bulk that are not even reliable. Before answering your question I would like to suggest that never share such kind of misinformation, what you can do on your part is that stop-check-delete thus, you are stopping the chain of misinformation then and there.The answer to your question is: Yes! To spot the difference between information and misinformation about the pandemic, the UNESCO and other UN agencies have joined hands … [Read more...] about I am receiving too many forwarded messages regarding COVID-19, are agencies taking some steps to control the spread of such misinformation?
What kind of Risks and Mitigation should be included in the Project Proposal?
Risks are uncertain events or conditions, that if happens, may hamper the project goal and objectives, or delay the project activities and deliverables; depending upon type and the period for which the risk remains active. In a project proposal, donors want to know about the possible risks and its mitigation plan, as they would like to be sure that you are able to forecast the possible risks and have built in steps/mechanisms so that the impacts of these risks on the project goals and objectives … [Read more...] about What kind of Risks and Mitigation should be included in the Project Proposal?
How do I create Communications Plan for my NGO?
A communications plan is necessary to help an NGO effectively promote its work in the public and donors eyes.Creating a communications plan is not a herculean task. However, it requires brainstorming of around three or four hours.It is best to choose a team member to lead a communications plan workshop. This person should ideally be someone who is committed fully to the organization’s communications, public relations, or marketing duties.From there, you can work through the elements of a … [Read more...] about How do I create Communications Plan for my NGO?
What is a Gantt. Chart and how to develop a Gantt. Chart in a project proposal?
A Gantt. Chart is a project management tool, named after its inventor, Henry Gantt, who designed such a chart around the years 1910–1915. It is presented as a horizontal bar chart with tasks over time. It is a useful tool and assists in the planning of projects of all sizes and helps to present complex projects in simple ways. During project execution too, this is useful to help ensure all required tasks are initiated and completed in time. Though the Gantt. Chart can also be made complex … [Read more...] about What is a Gantt. Chart and how to develop a Gantt. Chart in a project proposal?
Could you enlighten me about ensuring the accountability of my NGO?
Yes! But before diving deep into your question, first, let us learn about accountability.Accountability refers to an organization being answerable to a third party. It relates to the obligation of an individual or organization to account for its activities, accept responsibility for them, and to disclose the results transparently. It is a vast term that encompasses several issues of an NGO; some of these may include organizational management structure, financial procedures, human resource … [Read more...] about Could you enlighten me about ensuring the accountability of my NGO?
How does a Gantt Chart help the donor agencies?
For the donor, this is quite helpful as it provides a quick overview of project activities and the corresponding deliverables at a glance. It helps the donor understand almost complete project execution plan through a single chart!It helps the NGO/Project Agency also in getting a reviewed look at the various activities and how the execution and accomplishing of different project activities are linter-inked. The other advantage of a Gantt. Chart is that it is very helpful in project monitoring. … [Read more...] about How does a Gantt Chart help the donor agencies?
My application got rejected, doesn’t the donor like small NGOs? Does he hate me?
No, it is not like that. If you zoom in the picture, you will get to know that donors do not hate you, but they may overlook the value your NGO offers. It means you have not effectively proven to donors that your organisation does indeed have value. The reason application is ignored or rejected cannot be blamed on the donor but more likely is related to capacity, strategy, and trajectory of your effort. If you keep the above reasons for rejection in mind and work on those areas where you can … [Read more...] about My application got rejected, doesn’t the donor like small NGOs? Does he hate me?
Any update about African Development Bank supporting women entrepreneurs in Sudan to grow their business?
Yes! Lately, the Board of Directors of the African Development Bank has approved a $14.96 million project to assist women entrepreneurs in Sudan access finance and grow their businesses.The Accelerating Women's Entrepreneurship and Access to Finance (AWEAF) project will address capacity, financing, and knowledge gaps for Sudan's women entrepreneurs.The financing for the project comes in the form of a grant.The project aims to help women to access quality business development services and … [Read more...] about Any update about African Development Bank supporting women entrepreneurs in Sudan to grow their business?
Is it necessary for NGOs to be on Instagram?
Yes, NGOs need to be on Instagram because the app claims to have one billion users worldwide. Hence, it proves to be a useful tool to share your vision, mission, impact, appeal for donations, call for volunteers, keep in touch with donors and raise awareness.Also, it comes with numerous features and updates which continually keeps its users interested and not having a profile for your NGO is a chance missed at reaching a broad audience and marking your digital and social existence.While Facebook … [Read more...] about Is it necessary for NGOs to be on Instagram?
I have heard that in the UK, some people have received the first dose of COVID-19, have they?
Hi Dear! Whatever you have heard is true, as recently in the first week of the most extensive vaccination programme in British history, more than 137,000 people in the UK have received the first dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine The government has released provisional figures which show at least 137,897 people received their first dose of the vaccine by the end of Tuesday 15 December. 108,000 people vaccinated in England.The figures are provisional and subject to change. Formal … [Read more...] about I have heard that in the UK, some people have received the first dose of COVID-19, have they?
Are there any grants for Mental Health Awareness Training?
Hi Dear!Yes, there are! The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS) is accepting applications for fiscal year (FY) 2021 Mental Health Awareness Training grants (Short Title: MHAT).Purpose The purpose of this program is to:Train individuals (e.g., school personnel, emergency first responders, law enforcement, veterans, armed services members and their families) to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental disorders, severe … [Read more...] about Are there any grants for Mental Health Awareness Training?
Many countries are contributing to COVID-19 tests, treatments and vaccines. Can you throw some light on Canada’s contribution, if any?
Yes! Definitely.Like other countries, Canada is also making an effort to contribute to these unprecedented times.The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a profound global impact, with its wide-reaching effects amplified for vulnerable populations both in Canada and around the world.The eradication of the virus will only be possible until it will eradicate everywhere. That is why Canada is committed to a robust global effort to end the pandemic and address its devastating health, social, … [Read more...] about Many countries are contributing to COVID-19 tests, treatments and vaccines. Can you throw some light on Canada’s contribution, if any?
Is there any update about small farmers’ income getting a boost in Nepal?
Yes! To stimulate job creation and increase the income of farmers through an effective transformation of the agricultural markets in Nepal the Government of Switzerland and the Government of Nepal have signed an agreement of US$10.7 million.According to the agreement signed on November 29 between the two governments, Switzerland will contribute to the Nepal Agricultural Market Development Program (NAMDP) Phase II, a four-year program to be implemented in Province Number 1 in Nepal from December … [Read more...] about Is there any update about small farmers’ income getting a boost in Nepal?
I am looking for a grant opportunity funded by the European Commission on the fight against corruption, can you help me?
Yes, Dear, we are here to help you! Recently, the European Commission has launched a call for applications on the Fight Against Corruption to fund activities supporting the fight against corruption in budgeting and public procurement at local levels, risk assessment and prevention of corruption in sectors with high corruption risks, prevention of the use of financial and professional services for corruption and for laundering proceeds of corruption, activities offering support for civil … [Read more...] about I am looking for a grant opportunity funded by the European Commission on the fight against corruption, can you help me?
As we all know that tobacco is injurious to health, any organisation doing something to assist people in quitting it?
Quitting tobacco is challenging, especially with the added social and economic stresses that have come as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.Worldwide around 780 million people say that they want to quit, but only 30% of them have access to the tools that can help them do so.Recently, WHO launches a year-long global campaign for World No Tobacco Day 2021 – “Commit to Quit.”The new WHO Quit Challenge on WhatsApp and publication “More than 100 reasons to quit tobacco” are being released to mark the … [Read more...] about As we all know that tobacco is injurious to health, any organisation doing something to assist people in quitting it?
Any update about the improvement of Primary Health Care in India?
Yes! Here is a quick update! The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $300 million project to strengthen and improve access to comprehensive primary health care in urban areas in India.The onset of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has put pressure and revealed weaknesses in India’s health care system. In response, the government launched the Pradhan Mantri Atmanirbhar Swasth Bharat Yojana (PM-ASBY) to strengthen public health systems and respond to future pandemics and other … [Read more...] about Any update about the improvement of Primary Health Care in India?
Are any organizations using technology to protect vulnerable children and women during the pandemic?
Yes! Organizations like UNICEF and Microsoft Corp. are continuously making an effort to use technology in such a way that it could help the people and serve them to a great extent during these unprecedented times. Recently they have launched a new version of Primero: open-source case management web application that helps social service providers coordinate critical support to vulnerable children and women.The new version is called Primero X.Over the past 12 months, UNICEF and Microsoft have been … [Read more...] about Are any organizations using technology to protect vulnerable children and women during the pandemic?
How is Government of the United States contributing to these unprecedented times?
You might already know that the United States has been the world’s largest provider of bilateral assistance in health. Since 2009, American taxpayers generously have funded more than $100 billion in health assistance, and nearly $70 billion in humanitarian aid, around the world.After the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, the U.S. is continuously making an effort in assisting the victims of pandemic. Recently, the U.S. Government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), … [Read more...] about How is Government of the United States contributing to these unprecedented times?
Why is it necessary to have a Board of Members in an NGO? What are their functions?
The NGO board comprises of individuals who are appointed to provide oversight to the organization. As you proceed towards establishing the NGO, you will require advice from people who are experts in their respective field of work. To start with you can establish an initial board of comprising of 4- 5 individuals who are passionate about your cause and are willing to support your organization.The role of the initial board members will be to:Establish the organizations value, mission and vision … [Read more...] about Why is it necessary to have a Board of Members in an NGO? What are their functions?
What are in-kind contributions and how to secure them?
In-kind contributions: The support that you receive from donors for your charity can be of two kinds:- Cash- when there is a direct monetary support; and - In-kind- which is, non-monetary support, for which you would have otherwise spent In-kind contribution could include:A donated product- for example- computer and peripherals, equipment’s, furniture, educational material, etc.A donated service- for example- finance audit expert service provided by a finance firmA voluntary (non-core) service - … [Read more...] about What are in-kind contributions and how to secure them?
What are the main features of an NGO?
NGOs are diverse entities and their features are mostly shaped by the socio-economic, cultural, political and legal situation of a country. However, generally speaking, we can list out the following features that are common among NGOs in most of the countries around the world.Non-Profit in functioning: An NGO is not meant for making profit for personal gain. In case a NGO conducts some revenue generating activity, the profit earned should not be distributed amongst the board members, instead it … [Read more...] about What are the main features of an NGO?
Why do you need unrestricted funds?
There are certain core expenses of your organisation, which may not be funded by any donor. There are certain policy advocacy related activities, which donors may not be willing to fund but as an NGO it is important to undertake such activities, as it is required to achieve the mission of your organisation.In certain projects, there are components like your organisation contribution, which is mandatory to get a project grant. Whether this is done in cash or in kind, you will still need some … [Read more...] about Why do you need unrestricted funds?
What are the core values one should follow when establishing an NGO?
There are a set of core values that every NGO should adopt when thinking of setting up an NGO. NGOs are voluntary organizations dedicated for a cause and it is essential that they follow a belief system that reflects their approach.Following are some of the core values, NGOs should adopt when establishing an NGO:Service beyond self: The very purpose of NGOs is to serve others. Integrating this value in the overall working of the NGO not only makes them socially acceptable, but it also makes them … [Read more...] about What are the core values one should follow when establishing an NGO?
How to raise unrestricted funds?
Since unrestricted funds are not bounded by an agreement, any method that does not bound the donation received by your organisation under specific expense head, is unrestricted funds for your organisation. The first recommended step is that while making your organisation budget, estimate how much of unrestricted funds would be required by you in the upcoming financial year. One way to reduce the pressure of the amount of unrestricted funds to be raised is, charging overheads in the project … [Read more...] about How to raise unrestricted funds?
Why are the concepts of transparency and accountability important for NGOs?
Transparency and accountability are core values deeply embedded in an NGO. Since NGOs exist for carrying out voluntary work, it is expected that their actions demonstrate honesty, responsibility and answerability.According to Transparency International, "Transparency is about shedding light on rules, plans, processes and actions. It is knowing why, how, what, and how much. Transparency ensures that public officials, civil servants, managers, board members and businesspeople act visibly and … [Read more...] about Why are the concepts of transparency and accountability important for NGOs?
How can I form an NGO Board?
Board members play a crucial role in the functioning of an NGO, and therefore, one should be careful while appointing them. It is a good practice to develop a systematic process for their appointment and selection.The board recruitment plan should clearly indicate the following:Number of board membersCriteria for selection of Board membersKey QualitiesTenure of a board memberTerms of Reference for the job.You can develop the recruitment plan to suit your organization's objectives. For instance, … [Read more...] about How can I form an NGO Board?
What are some ideas for developing organizational sustainability for my NGO?
The one ingredient that is essential for your organization to create long lasting impact is Sustainability. The term sustainability has gained significant popularity in policy-oriented research, business development and social sector over the last few decades. Sustainability, a word frequently used across several disciplines, has become part of our everyday lexis. Origin of the word Sustain dates back several centuries, from two latin words sus which means- up and tenere meaning to hold. The … [Read more...] about What are some ideas for developing organizational sustainability for my NGO?
What is a Concept Note and why NGOs are required to develop it?
A concept note is the shortest expression of your project idea on a paper. It is a brief written note, giving an introduction to your project and your organization. If your NGO is seeking to raise funds for a project, then the first thing you would do is develop a short note of this project, explaining what it is and why it is required.Most donor agencies interested in providing funding support to NGOs prefer to receive an outline from them about the prospective project. As proposals are lengthy … [Read more...] about What is a Concept Note and why NGOs are required to develop it?
How to develop the Vision and Mission for my NGO?
The Vision statement describes the goal that an organization aspires to accomplish in the long run. In other words, the vision statement is the summary of changes/impact you would bring into the lives of the community you work for. The vision statement should be expressive and well drafted so that it appeals to people and at the same time also gives direction to the NGO. While drafting the vision statement keep the following points in mind:Use simple language that can be understood by people of … [Read more...] about How to develop the Vision and Mission for my NGO?
How to develop Bye-laws for my NGO?
By-law is a rule established by an organization to regulate its activities and manage internal affairs. Well defined and clear set of by-laws provide a clear structure to the NGOs and facilitates in smooth functioning. Along with providing consistency in working, by-laws also help in developing networks with local organizations and government entities. It is important for your organization to have a set of by-laws as they will guide you in operating and managing all your activities. Just like … [Read more...] about How to develop Bye-laws for my NGO?
How to write the Articles of Incorporation for my NGO?
Articles of Incorporation provide legal description to your NGO by establishing the existence of the organization as per government rules. The articles of incorporation define the purpose of your organization, along with describing the operational processes and membership details. The number of articles required will largely depend on the country laws. While drafting the article of incorporation, check with the government authorities about the various forms that you require to fill. Depending on … [Read more...] about How to write the Articles of Incorporation for my NGO?
What are the different types of donors supporting NGOs around the world?
There are several sources for you to avail funding for your organization, and to make the most of this opportunity, you will have to understand the various types of donors, their priorities and their core values. Most donors can be classified in to the following categories:Foundations: Foundations are non-governmental entities that are established to provide grants to smaller organization, research institutions and NGOs. Most NGOs rely heavily on foundations mainly because they provide grants … [Read more...] about What are the different types of donors supporting NGOs around the world?
How can I write a fundraising strategy for my NGO?
A fundraising strategy helps you to identify financial needs of your organization and accordingly outline the activities required to meet those needs. It typically helps you to plan the fundraising process for a period of 3-5 years by setting necessary deadlines and responsibilities.The primary purpose of a fundraising strategy is to prioritize activities to ensure fund flows through varied sources to help the organization in sustaining its activities. The best way to start writing the … [Read more...] about How can I write a fundraising strategy for my NGO?
What is a Corpus Fund and why it is important for an NGO to maintain Corpus Fund?
Corpus Fund is a fund that an NGO can use when its survival is at threat or during a phase/period where project funds are very limited. It can simply be also called as “Emergency Fund”, as it is also used to help sustain the difficult times of an NGO. Given its nature, this is also called subsistence fund.An important aspect of the Corpus fund is that, with general body meeting approval, it can also be used to keep continuity in an organisation activity, say, when the grant is still not … [Read more...] about What is a Corpus Fund and why it is important for an NGO to maintain Corpus Fund?
In the area of fund raising, who are HNIs and how to get HNIs signed-up as supporters for your organisation?
HNIs are High Net-worth Individuals, meaning those having high net worth resource with them and thus, have a high potential of giving/donating.There is no specific definition of whom to call HNI and each organisation may develop and follow their own definitions and maintain their own databases of HNIs. In the Indian context, many organisations treat those individuals having an annual income of INR 7 million (USD 0.1 million) to INR 35 million (USD 0.5 million) as HNIs and they are large partners … [Read more...] about In the area of fund raising, who are HNIs and how to get HNIs signed-up as supporters for your organisation?
What are fundraising products and how to develop one?
Like in a market, when we go to buy any item or thing, we call such visible, tangible outputs, as products. In a charity organisation, based on the work the charity organisation is involved in doing, the impact of the work in the form of a difference it makes can be packaged into a fundraising product.Some examples of fundraising product are Children enrolled in school, patients provided with medical care, young people provided with skill training, books developed and published, etc. Fundraising … [Read more...] about What are fundraising products and how to develop one?
How to write a thank you letter to the donor?
A thank you letter is the most important form of gratitude from the charity organisation to the donor for the contribution received from them. Key elements of such a letter include:Mandatory information like date, donor’s addressSubject- This is the most important section of the letter. The subject should be short, mentioning thank you and the purpose or impact of the donation. For example- Thank You for your kind support towards sending a girl child to school.The body of the letter could … [Read more...] about How to write a thank you letter to the donor?
How to raise fund for an NGO?
5 Steps to Fundraising Success for Small and Grassroots NGOsStep 1: Know your organization’s needs Step 2. Research donors that are a match for your NGOStep 3. Network and reach out to these donors before sending a proposalStep 4. Develop a great applicationStep 5. Follow up and persist … [Read more...] about How to raise fund for an NGO?
