Photo: Courtesy of Jennifer McCrea
The session
On March 31, 2026, the Resilient Collective held the highly anticipated workshop Sharpening Our Fundraising Practice. Led by fundraising expert Jennifer McCrea, the session equipped coalition members with practical tools to strengthen their fundraising efforts.
Why it mattered
Grassroots organisations working to end violence against women and girls are navigating increasingly constrained funding environments. Over 40 per cent of UN Trust Fund grantees report experiencing systemic backlash, including budget cuts and the defunding of initiatives to end violence against women and girls, with some facing reductions of up to 50 per cent in previously approved budgets. At the same time, shifts in donor priorities, including reductions and restructuring of major funding streams such as USAID, are further restricting access to predictable, long-term flexible funding, further limiting sustainability.
Political instability and changing regulatory environments in many countries have also made it more difficult for organisations to access and sustain funding. Increased competition for limited resources has further constrained funding flows, often disproportionately affecting grassroots and women-led organisations.
The expert
For more than 30 years, Jennifer has partnered with philanthropists, board members, and social change leaders to think more creatively and collaboratively about aligning strategic direction and resources. She is the co-author of the best-selling book and speaks regularly about money, meaning, and social change.
Key Takeaways from the Workshop:
- Lean into your interests and strengths. What do you enjoy? Hosting dinner parties to build relationships, writing grants? By focusing on approaches that align with what you enjoy, fundraising becomes more effective and sustainable – and will feel more natural and accessible.
- Build your generosity network. Map out shared connections among your funders and prospective donors, understand their interests, and create opportunities for connection.
- Find an “uber connector.” Engage someone who is highly connected and trusted across networks. Even if they don’t have financial resources, they can open valuable doors.
- Master the fundamentals of the ask. Practice making frequent asks – and not just financial ones. Each ask should be specific, credible, aligned with your broader strategy, hopeful in tone, and tied to a clear deadline.
Testimonials
“I learned how to categorise prospective donors and approach them accordingly.” – Dunia Koomsom, Zimbabwe
“Thank you very much, it was a very good, informative, and inspiring workshop. It was very helpful!” – Patricia Sheerathan-Bisnauth, Guyana
“I learned the differentiation between retail-based fundraising and relationship fundraising. I do believe we need to use both in supporting our organisations. ” – Douaa Hussein, Egypt
