Link to Progress
Oeganda

Link to Progress (LTP) is an organization in Uganda that focuses on improving the living conditions of people in northern Uganda through an integrated approach that covers themes such as water, sanitation and hygiene, quality of education, health and nutrition, income improvement and food security, as well as environmental protection.

Since 2019, Himmelblau has been supporting LTP in strengthening its fundraising capacities. LTP operates with a small and efficient team that works with a business-like approach.

Initially, LTP had a limited number of donors, and it was important to diversify their funding sources and reduce dependency. However, their fundraising experience was limited and lacked structure.

With Himmelblau's guidance, LTP was able to fortify and expand its partnerships. Substantial increases in the project budget enabled the organization to reach even more vulnerable people in need.

Here are some examples of Himmelblau's assistance provided to LTP:

  • Preparation of LTP's inaugural fundraising strategy and plan, along with guidance on implementation.
  • Training sessions on donor relationship management, pitching, social media management, and donor mapping, including guidance on LTP's initial donor mapping.
  • During the COVID-19 pandemic, Himmelblau provided advice on how LTP could effectively inform and engage its donors and partners regarding the challenges on the ground.
  • Support in the development of a short proposal template, a brochure, a presentation to potential donors, and the organization's website.
  • Recommendations on approaches to engage potential donors and assistance in crafting proposals.

During the initial year, the guidance provided by Himmelblau was intensive, involving two site visits and substantial remote mentoring. Over time, the level of support has been scaled back. Currently, the guidance entails a single annual on-site session, quarterly online progress meetings, and limited advice as requested by LTP.

 

The LTP team speaking on fundraising progress

  • "Our house is more in order“ - processes are streamlined, clear responsibilities (individual as well as collective), no ‘blame game’
  • LTP has a clear strategy and three-year plan now for its activities
  • Two big projects for the coming years are ensured through commitments of two funders
  • The new website has been put up and running in a very short period of time!
  • Elevator pitch and 15-minute power point pitch developed and practiced
  • The team is pro-active and shows clear ownership of resource mobilization as part of their responsibilities
  • Progress has been made on quality of proposals: cover page, better visibility of impact and strengths of LTP
  • New partner: initially a proposal for € 20.000 has been submitted and finally they approved a proposal of € 96.000; contract has been signed
  • Bringing in three new donors on board even amidst covid 19
  • Filling in the WASH gap for the integrated projects through a totally new donor

linktoprogress.org

testimonial Juliet