Developing Capacity for University-based Microfinance Assistance

Additional partners: Rogers and Bussey, Inc.

This partnership supported Mangosuthu Technikon’s (Mantec) capacity to raise its visibility and secure and manage grants, contracts, and other financial support.

Partners conducted an initial needs assessment in preparation for in-country workshops and designed training modules based on protocols for administrating sponsored research, managing volunteer/alumni organizations, and establishing a unique identity for the institution. After conducting the in-country workshops, partners established an Office of Sponsored Programs and International Projects at Mantec. They also developed a database to identify prospective sponsors and a database to track proposals, awards, and gifts.

In fall 2003, Mantec administrators participated in two-week workplace residencies at Spelman College to increase their skills and identify strategies that can be adopted at Mantec in the areas of grants and contracts, alumni development/fundraising, and communications and marketing. Partners also developed and distributed an external newsletter to Mantec alumni to keep them better connected with their alma mater and to cultivate gift/donor support.