Sustainable Project Application
The Giving Exchange is a 501(c)3 NGO operating out of California, USA, with a mission to connect need with supply for good with an emphasis on self-sustainable projects. Please note that our organization focuses specifically on sustainable programs. For more information on our Mission, Vision and Values, please click HERE.
Thank you for your interest in our organization. On this page, you will find details on our funding opportunities and specific instructions on how to submit your proposal. Please read it all attentively.
Applications are currently open for seed projects. A seed project is characterized by its relatively small scale and small budget (< 5,000 USD), which is simple to implement and manage. It is designed to test the feasibility of an idea before committing to larger-scale development or implementation and is intended to lay the groundwork for future initiatives.
It must be self-sustaining, meaning that it generates resources that cover its ongoing costs, is self-sufficient, runs independently, and lasts a lifetime.
While analyzing a seed project, we first look at the projects sustainability matrix and its impact measurement. We will be interested in knowing how the project will fare after the initial grant. Is it profitable? Can the project sustain itself, or does it need continuous funding? These questions are answered mainly by the applications’ Monitoring and Evaluation Matrix, which details the tangible examinable outcomes of the project.
A seed project can either be the start of a new project from scratch or the enhancement/expansion of a current project.
We will assess how your project idea aligns with our mission and goals. We will also assess your application using criteria relating to your previous project history, preparedness to implement, and how you communicate and build your relationship with TGE over time. When evaluating seed projects, we highlight initiatives that demonstrate strong ownership and knowledge of the project. A seed application must clearly indicate what the applicant will contribute to the project's success; this can be financially or in kind. Projects with member participation and contribution are more thriving than those fully funded by a donor because there’s a level of responsibility and accountability. A good project should also have a team leader that is knowledgeable and preferably with firsthand experience of the project to spear head it in the right direction and mitigate any challenges that may come up during the project cycle.
We also pay attention to the applicant’s communication pattern at the outset. This will determine their ability to send in timely and informative reports. As an organization, we rely heavily on feedback from the beneficiary as part of our monitoring and evaluation tool. Thus, the ability for participant to respond to email and avail timely information is key to our assessment process.
All TGE projects are required to report over time. If your proposal is approved, you are required to fill in a short monthly report on your project's progress and challenges/successes.
The consistency and quality of your communications will be one of the determining factors for any greater funding opportunities with TGE in the future.
Our project applications for 2024 are now closed. If you have a sustainable project idea to submit to The Giving Exchange, please consult this page again in December to be considered for funding in 2025.