Description
The project addresses the need for capacity building of NGOs to avoid the pitfalls of limited finances and dependence on project funding. The project aims at building and strengthening the capacity of a network of NGOs, establishing intersectoral partnerships and involving the local community in local development. First, an online-based portal/platform will be developed for the NGO network. Second, 100 representatives of the network members will be trained in basic networking. Third, 10 regional forums will be held to exchange good practices, get to know each other and formulate the next actions. Next, 50 new network members will be attracted. Finally, the network will be promoted in the local communities. The project will benefit the NGOs – network members, their staff, volunteers and the local community.
Summary of project results
Bulgaria still lacks sustainable development of the NGO sector not only due to shortage of funds but mostly due to the lack of developed/maintained/developing capacity NGOs themselves. This is particularly valid for NGOs in small communities. It is a vicious circle for NGOs to operate and exist only based on project financing. Such funding makes citizen activity paid/hired one. This is how we came up with the idea for this project, to further develop the capacity of Bulgarian National LEADER Network Association (the Leader Network), which is a coalition of NGOs, local initiative groups in this case. Four training sessions were held under the project for the members of the LEADER Network and 126 representatives of 75 NGOs were trained. The training included basic technical knowledge for work in the network, administration of forums, groups, organization profiles, sections, news, events, etc. In addition, 10 expanded fora took place for the Network members and 75 new members joined the network. The visualization of the LEADER Network was another important project activity. A website was created (
www.leader-network.org) with an interactive online network/platform with: more than 20 fora in the network; more than 50 participants in the network as organizations; more than 200 individual participants (data as of the end of the project). A large number of diverse information materials were prepared and disseminated. The project supported the joining of efforts of local initiative groups for joint actions of common interest. The focus was on identifying common interests of the local initiative groups. The Leader Network had its capacity raised with regard to the implementation of local policies. In addition, inter-sectoral partnerships were built as a result of the project events held.
Summary of bilateral results