As we all strive to make a meaningful impact on global issues, investing limited resources in targeted ways is the best route to transform our efforts. For those of us in humanitarian and international development organizations, NGOs, and non-profits, discovering how to secure funding from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) can feel like uncovering hidden treasure. It's no secret that the journey through the complex world of bilateral funding can sometimes feel daunting.
Let's talk through some of the key areas to invest in to increase your chances of tapping into FCDO funding opportunities. (I bet you know more than you think you do!)
Dig Deep into FCDO’s Funding Priorities
Before diving into understanding any single funding solicitation or application, it's crucial for us to really get to grips with what the FCDO is focusing on. Their priorities are key, and aligning with them is more than just a box-ticking exercise. By diving into past funding rounds and official communications, we can uncover the themes, geographies, and beneficiary groups that will make FCDO (and their key stakeholders) swoon. It's about seeing where our programming intersects and tailoring our concepts to resonate with these shared goals.
The quick highlights? Their focus is broad, ranging from harnessing innovation and new technologies, championing women and girls, and investing in education and health systems, to addressing state fragility and building resilience for those affected by conflict and climate change. Priorities for any given country can vary, so make sure to do your research! A great starting point can be our free FCDO Funder Focus Guide, if you want to read more.
Keep Your Ear to the Ground
Being in the know about the FCDO's current and upcoming opportunities is like having a roadmap. Sign up for the FCDO eSourcing portal to stay in the loop, and keep an eye out for chances to weigh in through meetings or surveys. The portal is a great source to use in a couple of ways:
- First, you can use the archive of past opportunities to familiarize yourself with FCDO's terminology, as well as what requirements, including eligibility criteria, were on past opportunities. This can help you to assess the realistic potential of FCDO as a funder for your organization.
- Second, you can monitor current opportunities to get to know what FCDO may be considering funding in the near term.
It's all about gathering as much information as possible - both through the official postings, but also through relationships and the (inevitable) rumor mill. Build a strong capture team to help you collect all the information you need.
Engage Early and Effectively
Early Market Engagement (EME) meetings are like gold dust for gathering insights directly from FCDO and our peers. The FCDO regularly holds an EME meeting, similar to a USAID bidder’s conference, during the pre-solicitation phase. These meetings not only give us a sneak peek at potential opportunities but also allow us to ask burning questions, highlight our strengths, and provide input on the design of the final procurement opportunity. It’s about opening a dialogue and making connections.
You can learn about upcoming EME meetings are publicized on the FCDO eSourcing Portal or the FCDO website. If you want more tips on how to make the most of EME meetings, check out our Early Market Engagement Meeting Guide.
Building Partnerships for Stronger Proposals
There's something powerful about showcasing strong partnerships in our proposals. It's about demonstrating our ability to work hand-in-hand with both local and international allies for a broader impact. Let's find those entities that complement our strengths and share our vision for sustainable development. It's about teamwork and shared goals.
FCDO distributes lists of attendees following EME meetings, which can be a great way to understand who is interested in a particular funding opportunity. Use those lists to dream up your ideal consortium to address the priorities FCDO has outlined.
Crafting Proposals That Speak Volumes
When it comes to writing any proposal, clarity and persuasion are our best friends. All of the capture work done to understand FCDO priorities, their aims with this particular funding opportunity, and the strengths and weaknesses of potential competitors will put you in a great position for developing some strong win themes. Starting with a clear problem statement and how we've successfully tackled such challenges before sets the stage. Use concrete examples and data to make our case, presenting our solutions as innovative, yet realistic, with outcomes that align with the FCDO’s vision.
If you're managing or writing your first FCDO proposal, it may be worth engaging an expert consultant to serve as an advisor, reviewer, or in a more significant role as lead writer. It can be easy to make assumptions about what FCDO wants when you're used to another funder's priorities!
Growing Through Feedback
The path to securing FCDO funding is competitive, and not every attempt will be a win. But every “no” is a chance to learn and refine - both your proposal process and your specific win strategy for this opportunity. Seeking feedback from the FCDO on declined proposals is invaluable. It’s about understanding where we can improve and being ready to adapt. Each attempt is a step closer to success.
Conclusion
Navigating the FCDO funding landscape is a journey we’re on together. With careful planning, a deep understanding of their objectives, and a commitment to continuous improvement, we can enhance our chances of success. It's about staying true to our shared mission, forging strong partnerships, and crafting proposals that stand out. Remember, persistence is our ally, and every application is an opportunity to grow and make an even bigger impact.
