Getting unstuck! Things that NGOs can do during this time of crisis

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a vital role in building thriving communities. Communities around the world now face unprecedented challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and social unrest caused by racial injustices. Strong, well-resourced NGOs are now required to lead in relief and recovery efforts as well as participate in rebuilding of communities.

However, some NGOs lack the time and human resource capacity to fundraise adequate grant finances to support their work. They feel STUCK! Many NGOs leaders are asking themselves how they can raise the funds for the growing needs of their communities. Where do they even begin? Below are a few ideas of where to begin.

1.      Get clear on your community’s needs and priorities. Your NGOs staff need to engage in conversations that elicit current and future priorities for their communities. It is most likely that the needs and of the communities have shifted and are even beyond the mission of your NGO. Remember, the relevance as an NGO is measured, in part, by how well it responds to the needs of the beneficiaries. NGO leaders must be open and willing to receive all constructive ideas. 

2.      Call your current and past donors. This is probably the most important thing NGO leaders can do! You want to start this quest with donors with whom you already have a relationship. This is because they are the open to having an informal conversation with you. Armed with a clear picture of your communities need, call all your donors-those who fund you currently and those who have funded you in the past. Let them know how these crises have impacted your community and organization. Let them know of what activities you would conduct to address your community’s needs, given additional resources. Bear in mind that donors are also seeking answers and strategies to address current communities’ needs. However, your ideas need to reflect current realities. Cost-efficient strategies are likely to receive attention. Ask for feedback on your ideas. Ask the donor if they have resources for your proposed activities. The donor may not have immediate access to additional funds. But, keep asking…. “When can we review your position? Do you know of other donors who might be interested in these activities?” Follow-through on the guidance provided.

3.      Ask your donors to release restrictions. Call all your donors who have given you restricted funding and articulate what your community needs at this moment. Ask them to release the restrictions to allow flexibility. This may come as a surprise to many, but many donors are answering the call. An organization that I work with has been successful in getting a substantial amount of unrestricted funding for COVID-19 response.

4.   Get innovative-not all resources are donor-based. Even in this time of crisis, there remains a lot of untapped resources. For example, NGOs can ask their Facebook communities to chip in for particular activities. People want to feel connected and useful and in this crisis. Some people within your community may be willing to pitch in with their bare hands or give other in-kind support. NGOs could also monetize their assets and create new funding streams. For example, the organization’s collective skills and knowledge could be offered for consultancy or training.

Things may seem bleak, but now is a time to lean in and find ways to keep raising funds for your mission. Your organization may emerge stronger with new relationships, connections, and friends. Let us know if my team and I can help you at [email protected].

Dr Michael Kiragu is a consultant grant writer, trainer and public health expert. LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/michael-kiragu-b114242a