FIT has a long history of successfully managing a variety of funding mechanisms on behalf of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). These have ranged from responsive funds to support development initiatives in a variety of countries to specialized funds targeting specific sectors. FIT has established secretariats, and financial and management systems to support the administration of these funds meeting the criteria for due diligence, results-based management, and effective and timely disbursement.
Systems are reinforced through ongoing and rigorous monitoring, evaluation and reporting mechanisms. As well, FIT’s approach emphasizes supporting fund recipients to maximize the effectiveness of their projects. This can include support and advice in the design and development of funded projects, as well as provision of training and technical assistance to support adherence to donor requirements such as results-based management, gender equality, reporting and environmental impact assessment.
Ontario International Development Program
Baltic Initiatives Program
The Baltic Initiatives Program (BIP) was a decentralized fund of CIDA to build the capacities of local agencies and institutions to address critical social and economic needs in their respective countries and within the region. FIT administered the BIP, establishing fund management and project monitoring systems. While meeting CIDA criteria and due diligence responsibilities FIT’s management of the fund was acknowledged for its efficiency and effectiveness in meeting the needs of the BIP partners.
Enhancing Civil Society Project – Jamaica
The Enhancing Civil Society Project (ECSP) worked to empower Jamaican civil society at the community level through a funding mechanism designed to strengthen their capacities through combined training, technical assistance and project financing. A comprehensive fund management system was designed that included clear guidelines for applicant organizations, project selection and approval criteria, payment and reporting procedures, and a performance monitoring system. Thirty-six innovative projects throughout the country received support through the fund, addressing community needs as diverse as education for children at risk, development of farmers’ cooperatives, development of eco-tourism and community infrastructure development.
International NGO Fund and Management for Change – Small Projects and Exchanges Funds
FIT managed two funds on behalf of CIDA to promote the development of partnerships between Canadian and developing country agencies. Through these mechanisms, students were able to gain exposure to international issues through participation in small projects and exchanges in developing countries. At the same time, project funds were made available to Canadian chapters of international voluntary and professional associations that created opportunities for experienced managers to participate in exchanges and strengthen global networks and partnerships. Funded projects included a meeting with local environmental organizations in order to develop a process for youth participation at the United Nations Conference on the Environment and Development held in Brazil in 1992; attendance of representatives from the Canadian Project WILD Campaign at the 35th Working Session of the Commission on National Parks and Protected Areas of the Caribbean; and the development of two film projects: "Ethics and Technology" and "Women of Power."
Participatory Development Program (PDP) – Egypt
PDP supports capacity development of promising Egyptian civil society organizations through three funding mechanisms: the Participatory Development Facility (PDF); the Gender Equality Development Facility (GEDF) and the Child Protection Development Facility (CPDF). FIT developed detailed systems and procedures for each facility to ensure accountable and effective management of these funds. These include selection criteria, financial management systems, guidelines and formats for financial and progress reports from partners, payment and reporting schedules, and a management information system (MIS) and framework to support regular monitoring of results at the sub-project, facilities and program levels. Information packages including selection criteria and application guidelines have also been developed to assist organizations prepare requests for support.