The process of writing proposals for raising funds can be lengthy, complex and
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What are the challenges and problems in writing proposals for raising funds for my NGO?
Is a concept note an idea for a project?
No the term ‘Concept Note’ is often misleading as it implies that it is just an outline of an idea. The reality is that a Concept Note is actually a first stage preliminary proposal that funders use to assess if a proposal is good enough to be invited to put forward a full application. Most… [Read More]
What are the essential elements to implement Gender Mainstreaming?
According to the Council of Europe, “Gender mainstreaming is the (re) organization, improvement, development and evaluation of decision-making processes, with the aim of incorporating the perspective of equality between women and men in all fields and at all levels, by the actors generally involved in the implementation of policies”. Gender issues should be mainstreamed at… [Read More]
What is the difference between Gender Mainstreaming, specific equality policies and the fight against discrimination?
The fight against discrimination based on sex aims to prohibit and eliminate any legal measure which implies differential treatment of men and women and is likely to produce or reinforce inequalities between men and women. It is considered that there is inequality between men and women when men and women are in respective different situations… [Read More]
What are the advantages of the Gender Mainstreaming approach?
According to the Council of Europe, “Gender mainstreaming is the (re) organization, improvement, development and evaluation of decision-making processes, with the aim of incorporating the perspective of equality between women and men in all fields and at all levels, by the actors generally involved in the implementation of policies”. The systematic consideration of the gender… [Read More]
I’m recruiting a grants fundraiser. What are the key skills and minimum requirements that I should be looking for in a competent person?
There are some people who believe that anybody can take on the role of a grants fundraiser and will employ someone who has come from an unrelated position in the commercial sector with no experience in this field at all. However, writing compelling applications for funding, especially from large strategic funders such as USAID requires… [Read More]
What kind of consultation does a funder expect when developing a programme for funding?
Consultation with beneficiaries and other stakeholders is an important part of new programme development and funders are keen to have evidence that this has been carried out. Funders want to see that projects have been developed in consultation with local people and other stakeholders to ensure that the project reflects local need and priorities. This… [Read More]
What additional information is useful when writing a funding proposal?
All funders are different with regard to the application process. However, for those independent Trusts who don’t have a specific application form, it can be good to attach your latest accounts and annual review along with the proposal. It is always beneficial to include a cover letter which summarises your project and the need, and… [Read More]
What is the role of a non-executive board of directors in an NGO?
The non-executive board of Directors are unpaid voluntary roles and they are usually responsible for the overall good governance of the NGO that they represent. They should make sure that there are robust financial controls in place and that funds are being spent in the correct way. They should also ensure that policies are kept… [Read More]
