As an NGO leader in the Netherlands, securing funding is an essential part of ensuring that your organization can continue to carry out its mission and make a positive impact on the communities it serves. One potential source of funding that many NGOs turn to is the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which provides financial assistance to organizations working to address global challenges such as poverty, disease, and conflict. Here are some proven steps and approaches you can take to increase your chances of securing a USAID grant:
Research the country development strategy: USAID's work is guided by the development objectives of the countries in which it operates. To increase your chances of securing a grant, it's important to understand the priorities and needs of the country in which you will be working, as well as the strategies that USAID is using to address these needs. You can find more information on USAID's country development strategies on its website (https://www.usaid.gov/country-development-cooperation-strategy).
Partner with known USAID recipients: Building partnerships and leveraging local networks is an important part of USAID's grantmaking process. Consider partnering with other organizations or local authorities that have experience working with USAID, as this can help demonstrate your commitment to collaboration and increase your chances of success.
Research the mission forecast: USAID's mission forecast is a tool that provides information on the agency's funding priorities, including the types of activities that it is interested in supporting. Reviewing the mission forecast can help you understand what types of projects are most likely to be funded and give you ideas for your own proposal. You can find the mission forecast on USAID's website (https://www.usaid.gov/mission-forecast).
Seek guidance and support: USAID provides a range of resources and support for grant applicants, including webinars, training materials, and guidance documents. Make sure to take advantage of these resources and seek guidance from USAID staff if you have questions or need support. You can find more information on the grant application process and access helpful resources on USAID's website (https://www.usaid.gov/grant-application-process).
By following these steps and approaches, you can increase your chances of securing a USAID grant and ensure that your organization has the resources it needs to continue making a positive impact in the world.