Introduction

In the highly competitive world of non-profit and development work, mastering Proposal Writing and Resource Mobilization is crucial for organizations striving to secure the funding necessary to achieve their impactful missions. This comprehensive skill set extends beyond mere writing; it involves strategic donor research, compelling storytelling, meticulous budget development, and a deep understanding of donor priorities to create persuasive proposals that stand out. Effective resource mobilization ensures a sustainable flow of funds, enabling NGOs to plan long-term initiatives and respond swiftly to emerging needs. Without robust capabilities in this area, organizations risk inconsistent funding, missed opportunities, and an inability to scale their vital programs, ultimately hindering their capacity to deliver meaningful change in the communities they serve. This essential training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Proposal Writing and Resource Mobilization.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to empower development professionals, fundraising managers, program coordinators, and executive leaders within NGOs with the theoretical understanding and practical tools necessary to excel in proposal writing and resource mobilization. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the full fundraising cycle, explore various funding avenues, learn about crafting compelling narratives and logical frameworks, and acquire skills in developing realistic and justifiable budgets. The course will delve into topics such as donor research, needs assessment, theory of change, results frameworks, grant reporting, and building sustainable donor relationships. By mastering the principles and methodologies of Proposal Writing and Resource Mobilization, participants will be prepared to secure vital funding, diversify revenue streams, and ultimately amplify their organization's ability to create lasting positive impact.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Fundraising Managers and Officers
• Grant Writers and Proposal Development Specialists
• Program Managers and Coordinators
• Executive Directors and CEOs of NGOs
• Resource Mobilization Officers
• Communications and Marketing Professionals in NGOs
• Development Directors
• Project Leads seeking external funding
• Board Members involved in fundraising
• Aspiring professionals in the non-profit sector.

Objectives

• Understand the principles of effective resource mobilization and the funding landscape for NGOs.
• Learn to identify and research diverse funding opportunities aligned with organizational goals.
• Acquire skills in designing compelling and well-structured project proposals.
• Comprehend techniques for developing logical frameworks and theories of change in proposals.
• Explore methodologies for creating realistic and justifiable project budgets.
• Understand the importance of effective communication and storytelling in proposal writing.
• Gain insights into donor stewardship and building long-term relationships.
• Develop a practical understanding of ethical considerations and common pitfalls in resource mobilization.

Course Content

Module 1: Understanding the Resource Mobilization Landscape

• Overview of funding sources for NGOs: institutional, corporate, foundations, individual.
• Current trends and challenges in resource mobilization.
• Aligning fundraising strategies with organizational mission and vision.
• Developing a diversified funding portfolio for sustainability.
• Ethical considerations in seeking and accepting funds.

Module 2: Donor Research and Opportunity Identification

• Techniques for identifying potential funders: online databases, networks, reports.
• Conducting thorough donor research: priorities, past grants, application processes.
• Matching organizational needs and capabilities with donor interests.
• Building a pipeline of funding opportunities.
• Networking strategies for funder engagement.

Module 3: Foundational Elements of a Strong Proposal

• Understanding the typical structure of a grant proposal.
• Crafting a compelling executive summary that captures attention.
• Clearly articulating the problem statement and demonstrated need.
• Defining target beneficiaries and their active participation.
• Highlighting organizational capacity and expertise.

Module 4: Project Design: Logical Framework Approach & Theory of Change

• Introduction to the Logical Framework Approach (LFA) for project design.
• Developing a Theory of Change (ToC) that explains how change will happen.
• Defining clear and measurable objectives (SMART).
• Identifying activities, outputs, outcomes, and impact.
• Incorporating gender, social inclusion, and environmental considerations.

Module 5: Developing a Realistic and Justifiable Budget

• Principles of grant budgeting: direct vs. indirect costs.
• Breaking down project activities into budget lines.
• Justifying each budget line item clearly and concisely.
• Understanding cost-sharing, co-financing, and in-kind contributions.
• Managing currency fluctuations and inflation in budgets.

Module 6: Compelling Narrative and Storytelling

• The art of persuasive writing in proposals.
• Crafting narratives that connect with donor emotions and intellect.
• Integrating compelling stories, case studies, and testimonials.
• Using data and evidence to support claims of need and impact.
• Tailoring language and tone to specific donor audiences.

Module 7: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) in Proposals

• Designing a robust MEL plan within the proposal.
• Defining key performance indicators (KPIs) and data collection methods.
• Explaining how results will be tracked and reported.
• Ensuring accountability to beneficiaries and donors.
• Articulating how learning will be integrated for adaptive management.

Module 8: Proposal Submission, Stewardship, and Relationship Building

• Reviewing and refining the proposal for quality and compliance.
• Understanding submission procedures and deadlines.
• Follow-up strategies after proposal submission.
• Principles of effective donor stewardship and gratitude.
• Building long-term, trust-based relationships with funders.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 5 working days before commencement of the training.