Capacity building is a set of activities implemented with the intention to improve the skills, infrastructure, procedures, and effectiveness of organizational activities.
For nonprofits capacity building is generally focused on improving program effectiveness such that the organization is better able to carry out its mission. In for profit organizations, capacity building improves the processes that allow the organization to carry out business plans, and reach goals.
Capacity building activities can include: training and professional development, development and strengthening of networks and collaborative relationships, developing and implementing marketing and outreach activities. The goal of capacity building is to strengthen core competencies such as human resource management and development, fiscal management, planning, and program evaluation.
The key aspect of capacity building is that it strengthens the organization by developing sustainable skills that will promote long-term success.
Research shows that the following elements can significantly improve the sustained impact of capacity building within your organization:
- Assessment and dialogue shaping your capacity building activities around the needs reported by your organizational staff both individually and as a group will increase their buy-in to the process.
- Training true learning occurs when you have the opportunity to apply concepts. Our training includes homework assignments and individual coaching to help participants apply what they have learned.
- Technical assistance we provide technical assistance in real time, integrated into ongoing projects or routine organizational tasks, increasing learning potential.
Contact us if you’d like professional assistance in developing the capacity of your organization.
