How donors search for partners: what funders look for

Donors receive far more requests than they can fund, so they use quick checks to decide who to talk to. Knowing those checks helps you prepare.

Clear purpose and focus

Funders want to see that your work fits their priorities and that you can explain it simply. A focused organisation is easier to fund than one that does everything.

Track record

Show what you have delivered, for whom and with what result. Past projects with named partners are strong evidence.

Governance and finance

Expect questions about your board, your policies, your audited or reviewed accounts and how you manage funds. Have these documents ready.

Risk and safeguarding

Many funders ask for safeguarding, anti-fraud and data protection policies. Written and applied policies reassure them.

Make it easy to say yes

• A one-page overview of the organisation.
• Recent annual report or summary of results.
• Registration and tax documents.
• A named contact who replies promptly.

Where to go next

Search and compare organisations on the NGO Directory Africa, which lists 13,580 organisations across 54 countries.