Insights from the NCD Alliance Kenya Resource Mobilization Training: Building Sustainable Fundraising Strategies

Recently, on the 14th October 2024, I had the privilege of attending a resource mobilization training organized by the NCD Alliance of Kenya at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Hurlingham, Nairobi. This event was a unique opportunity to learn from fundraising experts and connect with peers working to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The training not only enhanced my understanding of resource mobilization but also shed light on key strategies for sustainable fundraising that can significantly impact how NGOs operate and achieve their goals.

The NCD Alliance Kenya is a collaborative platform that works to advocate for better policies, resource allocation, and programs that address the growing burden of NCDs in Kenya. Through its efforts, the organization plays a vital role in uniting different stakeholders, including government, civil society, and healthcare providers, to combat NCDs such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic respiratory diseases. By offering this training, the NCD Alliance continues to lead the way in building capacity for organizations dedicated to addressing NCDs.

Key Takeaways from the Training

The training, facilitated by the incredible Cindy Ogana, provided invaluable insights on how to strengthen fundraising efforts. One of the main takeaways was that fundraising is an ongoing effort rooted in networking and relationship building. It’s not enough to focus solely on securing funds; organizations must engage with potential donors and stakeholders, foster meaningful relationships, and build trust. This “friendsraising” approach ensures that doors to funding opportunities remain open, creating a sustainable pipeline for resources.

Another critical piece of advice from Cindy was to avoid chasing funds simply to cover administrative costs. Instead, she emphasized that fundraising should focus on driving change and long-term impact. The goal is to raise funds for causes that make a difference, not just to keep the organization afloat. This resonated deeply with me, as it underlines the importance of purpose-driven fundraising in creating lasting societal change.

Expanding Beyond NCD-Specific Funding Sources

One of the discussions that stood out during the training was the need for NGOs in the NCD space to broaden their funding focus. NGOs must realize that funding opportunities exist both within and outside the NCD sector. By expanding their fundraising efforts beyond just NCD-specific sources, they can access more diverse resources to fuel their initiatives. This approach can help organizations grow, reach more beneficiaries, and tackle NCDs more effectively. Whether it’s through corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs or engaging health-conscious philanthropists, the potential funding streams are vast if organizations strategically diversify their donor outreach.

Crafting a Winning Fundraising Strategy

The training also delved into creating effective donor profiles and donor segmentation. We discussed the different types of donor personas, including CSR donors, health-conscious philanthropists, caregivers/patients, and global health advocates. Understanding these donor profiles allows organizations to tailor their fundraising strategies and messages to appeal to each type of donor. It also highlighted the importance of segmenting donors based on their interests, values, and giving patterns, which ensures a more targeted and effective approach.

Another crucial aspect of the training was the difference between a case for support and a proposal. While a proposal is a more formal request for funding, a case for support is a broader document that outlines why the organization exists, what it seeks to achieve, and how it plans to do so. Cindy stressed that having a strong case for support is fundamental in inspiring confidence among potential donors and building a solid foundation for future proposals.

A Transformative Learning Experience

Overall, this training enhanced my understanding of crafting a robust fundraising strategy that focuses on impact, sustainability, and long-term change. It reinforced the idea that fundraising is not just about keeping the lights on—it’s about creating a legacy of positive impact in the communities we serve. With this new knowledge, I am excited to refine our fundraising approach and focus on engaging donors who share our vision for reducing the burden of NCDs.

Gratitude and Next Steps I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the NCD Alliance Kenya for organizing this insightful training. It was an incredible learning experience, and I look forward to applying the knowledge and skills gained to enhance our resource mobilization efforts. Special thanks to Cindy Ogana for her dynamic facilitation and for sharing her wealth of expertise with us. The lessons learned will undoubtedly guide us in developing stronger, more impactful fundraising strategies for the future.