How do you overcome challenges when scaling up programs to reach more beneficiaries?

2 Choose your scaling model

When looking to scale up your program, there are several models to consider. For example, horizontal scaling involves expanding the program to new locations or populations within the same sector or domain. Vertical scaling involves influencing policy or institutional change to support or adopt your program at a higher level. Functional scaling involves adding new components or services to your program to address related needs or gaps. And organizational scaling involves growing your own organization's size, structure, or capacity to deliver your program more effectively or efficiently. Ultimately, you should choose the scaling model that best fits your program's theory of change, mission, and vision.

3 Develop a scaling plan

Once you have chosen your scaling model, you need to develop a detailed scaling plan that outlines your objectives, activities, indicators, timeline, budget, and risks. Your scaling plan should also include a clear value proposition that explains how your program addresses a specific problem or need, and how it differs from or complements other existing or potential solutions. You should also identify and engage your key stakeholders, such as beneficiaries, donors, partners, staff, and policymakers, and communicate your scaling plan to them clearly and regularly.

4 Monitor and evaluate your scaling

Scaling up your program requires constant monitoring and evaluation to track your progress, measure your outcomes, and learn from your successes and failures. You should use both quantitative and qualitative methods to collect and analyze data on your program's reach, quality, cost-effectiveness, and impact. You should also use feedback loops to solicit and respond to inputs and suggestions from your stakeholders, especially your beneficiaries. You should also be flexible and adaptive to changing circumstances and emerging opportunities or challenges.

5 Celebrate and share your learning

Scaling up your program is not only a daunting task, but also a rewarding one. You should celebrate and acknowledge your achievements and milestones, as well as recognize and appreciate the contributions of your team and partners. You should also share your learning and best practices with other non-profit organizations, networks, or platforms that are interested in or working on similar issues or goals. By doing so, you can inspire and inform others, as well as build your reputation and credibility as a leader in your field.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?