Approximately 60 Jamaican non-governmental organizations (NGOs) will benefit from specialized training under the Fulbright Program aimed at improving their ability to secure funding and communicate their impact more effectively.
The initiative is being delivered through a partnership involving American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) and the University of the West Indies Mona School of Business and Management (MSBM) Professional Services Unit. The program will culminate in a five-day in-person workshop in Kingston from May 11 to 15.
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The training seeks to address a longstanding challenge facing many NGOs across Jamaica. Although numerous organizations provide critical services in vulnerable communities, many struggle to attract funding because they are unable to clearly demonstrate their impact to donors and development partners.
Administered by the United States Department of State, the Fulbright Specialist Program connects institutions with experienced American professionals who provide short-term, high-impact assignments designed to build institutional capacity and foster innovation.
This year’s workshop will be led by Kevin Keenan, founder of GROW Strategies LLC and a nonprofit strategist with more than 30 years of experience. Keenan has advised organizations globally on fundraising, strategic communications, and financial sustainability. His previous leadership roles include positions at the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, the American Civil Liberties Union of San Diego, and the Vera Institute of Justice.
“This program is about helping organizations translate the important work they are already doing into compelling, credible narratives that resonate with funders,” Keenan said. “The ability to clearly demonstrate impact is what unlocks opportunity.”
Director of the MSBM Professional Services Unit, Diane Edwards, said the initiative addresses a major gap within the nonprofit sector.
“Too many organizations doing essential work across Jamaica are missing out on funding simply because they are not telling their story effectively,” Edwards said. “This initiative is designed to change that.”
Executive Director of AFJ, Caron Chung, emphasized the broader national significance of the program.
“When NGOs are underfunded, communities feel it,” Chung said. “Strengthening their ability to attract funding is not just an organizational issue; it is a national development priority.”
In addition to the group workshop, a select number of participants will receive personalized one-on-one coaching and strategic guidance. Organizers say limited spaces remain and are encouraging interested organizations to register as soon as possible.
