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Description
The aim of the project is to create tools that would allow to increase the share of non-project revenues in the association''s budget by at least 15%.
The project activities are focused on 3 directions:
1) to purposefully address potential donors by creating a donation-friendly website and preparing donation business cards;
2) development of paid services by creating training programs and e-courses;
3) to improve the capacity of the association in attracting donors by training members and employees.
It is expected that during the project implementation, the project activities will reach 330 potential donors, address 50 potential training participants and train 8-12 members and employees of the association. After the implementation of the project, 1200 potential donors will be reached and 20 paid courses will be organized during the year with the help of the developed tools.
As the amount of non-project-related funding increases, it will be possible to ensure the sustainable operation of the association, maintain the continuous provision of services, as well as develop new services.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address several critical challenges faced by the Baltic HIV Association. It was recognized that potential funders often demanded innovation and were unwilling to support the same activities repeatedly, which increased the risk of discontinuing vital services like HIV testing and consultations. Despite efforts to provide these services through voluntary work, the lack of unrestricted financial resources threatened their sustainability. The need to continue offering free HIV testing remained a priority, especially given Latvia''s high incidence of new HIV cases. Additionally, the association sought to improve public knowledge about HIV prevention and risk behaviors, as well as to educate specific groups, as there were still significant gaps in understanding the virus and its transmission.
The association also faced technical challenges with its outdated website, which was difficult to update and not mobile-friendly, leading to a limited online presence. The lack of targeted training programs and e-courses, despite growing demand, further highlighted the need for improvement. There was a risk of discontinuing support groups without securing additional funding. Lastly, the association''s staff, while knowledgeable in HIV-related matters, lacked expertise in attracting donors, which hindered efforts to secure non-project-based funding necessary for maintaining and expanding services.
The project "Promoting the financial sustainability of the association" focused on several key activities to enhance the operational capacity and financial stability of the association. A communication plan was developed. The website was redesigned to improve user experience, making it easier to access information about services and enabling online donations through PayPal and Mobilly. The website’s content was restructured, updated, and visually enhanced with new, professionally produced images featuring association members. Two HIV training modules were created, aimed at different target groups, and added to the association’s website. Additionally, an e-learning course on "Basic Questions about HIV" was developed, consisting of four video modules, with access available for a fee. The project also included training for association members and volunteers on donor acquisition strategies, which led to the development of a donation strategy and the engagement of potential donors. To support fundraising efforts, donation cards (magnets) and branded thermos mugs were designed and produced, with the mugs given as tokens of appreciation to major supporters. The association also worked on increasing public awareness, regularly posting updates on its website and social media, and reaching a growing audience, particularly through mobile devices.
The project "Promoting the financial sustainability of the association" resulted in a significant increase in non-project-related revenue for the Baltic HIV Association, growing more than fivefold during its implementation. While the goal of increasing this revenue by 15% has not yet been fully achieved, the share of non-project income in the association’s budget rose by 11 percentage points. The overall turnover also increased, indicating greater financial stability. The project improved the association’s visibility, leading to a rise in donations and fostering new collaborations. Tools developed during the project, such as e-learning courses and fundraising strategies, are expected to further boost revenue in the near future. The project enhanced the association''s long-term financial sustainability by equipping it with knowledgeable staff and effective resources to attract non-project income. In the short term, the project increased public awareness of the association’s work and resources, while the long-term impact includes strengthening the association’s reputation, attracting donations, and potentially inspiring other organizations to apply for similar funding.