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Supporting the creation of the Blue Action Fund

To address a global funding gap in marine conservation, we worked with KfW to establish the Blue Action Fund, a trust fund supporting NGOs in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Our role included shaping the strategy, operational framework, and governance structure.

We facilitated stakeholder workshops, developed key manuals, and supported the launch of the first call for proposals. Today, the Fund is a leading platform providing critical financial support for marine and coastal protection worldwide.

➡ Learn more: www.blueactionfund.org

Prequalification of NGOs for a rapid response mechanism in Eastern Africa

To enable faster humanitarian response in East Africa, we supported an international donor in setting up a rapid response mechanism. Our role was to prequalify a pool of NGOs to ensure quick project preparation and implementation.

We mapped active NGOs across relevant countries and sectors, invited them to submit Expressions of Interest, and assessed their capacities through a tailored evaluation tool and on-site visits to regional offices in Nairobi. The resulting analysis and report now allow the donor to swiftly identify suitable NGO partners for future interventions.

Developing and Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) for a Refugee Fund in Uganda

For Uganda’s Refugee Response Fund, we designed an Environmental and Social Management Framework to ensure compliance with international standards. This included safeguard plans for pilot projects and a land acquisition framework.

Working with local experts, we conducted field visits, stakeholder consultations, and training workshops to build capacity and ensure risks were managed inclusively and sustainably. The Fund now integrates strong environmental and social safeguards into its operations.

Developing a Toolbox for Remote Management and Monitoring of Development Projects

We advised an international donor on opportunities and risks of remote project management in fragile contexts. To support practical application, we created a toolbox with over 60 good practice examples, strategies for stakeholder engagement, and guidance on technology use.

Developed through broad consultations and participatory workshops, the toolbox equips practitioners with tools to manage projects effectively when travel or on-site monitoring is limited. It is now widely used to ensure successful programming in complex environments.

Developing an SDG contribution tool: Analysing the Impact of a Project Portfolio in Albania

To strengthen impact assessment, we developed a tool for estimating development portfolios’ contributions to the SDGs. The tool quantifies expected results, compares them with DAC evaluation criteria, and provides structured guidance for strategic planning.

We piloted the tool with the German Development Cooperation portfolio in Albania, validating results with experts and refining the methodology. This approach offers practitioners a practical way to align portfolios with the SDGs and improve evidence-based programming.

Supporting Organisational Development of the Nature Trust Alliance (NTA)

We analysed potential synergies among conservation trust funds and developed a shared services model, resulting in the creation of the Nature Trust Alliance. This collaboration reduces administrative costs and allows members to focus on their core mission of biodiversity conservation.

Following NTA’s establishment, we facilitated strategic workshops and co-developed an operational manual with the team. Today, NTA strengthens cooperation among conservation funds, increasing efficiency and collective impact.

Developing an Operations Manual for the Climate Bridge Fund in Bangladesh

We supported the design of the Climate Bridge Fund to address climate-induced migration in Bangladesh. Our work focused on creating its governance framework and drafting an operational manual with transparent rules for project selection and fund management.

Through participatory workshops with BRAC and consultations with stakeholders, we ensured ownership and alignment with local needs. The Fund is now well-positioned to deliver sustainable climate adaptation solutions in vulnerable regions.

Rethinking Agricultural Mechanisation in Sub-Saharan Africa

We examined the potential of agricultural mechanisation to increase food security while addressing financing barriers for smallholder farmers. Our analysis highlighted opportunities for accessible technologies and innovative financial models.

Recommendations included shared-use models, adapted small-scale machinery, and alternative financing such as warehouse receipts. By combining technology with financial innovation, we promoted inclusive and sustainable approaches to agricultural mechanisation.

Strengthening Sustainability in BMW’s Supply Chain in Bangladesh

BMW sought to improve transparency and sustainability in its Kenaf supply chain in Bangladesh. We assessed risks and opportunities through field research, value chain analysis, and stakeholder consultations.

Our findings informed a project proposal addressing sustainable farming practices, traceability, and fair income distribution. Implemented later by GIZ, the initiative has since improved farmer livelihoods and enhanced supply chain sustainability.

Strengthening the Partnership between KfW and UNDP as well as UNICEF

To improve cooperation between KfW and the UN agencies UNICEF and UNDP in supporting children and families in conflict-affected settings, we facilitated the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for joint project design and implementation. The goal was to accelerate project preparation, enhance management efficiency, and make collaboration more predictable and effective. We also supported the partners in establishing mechanisms for knowledge exchange and co-creation of innovative approaches, helping both organizations leverage their complementary strengths for greater impact.

Over the course of a year, we worked in an agile and participatory process involving both management and technical teams. The resulting SOP manual outlines the typical project cycle and provides practical guidance for efficient cooperation. It was piloted across several UNICEF and UNDP programmes to test and refine its applicability. Through structured dialogue formats, both in-person and online, we enabled transparent collaboration, joint learning, and a strong results orientation.

Developing a multi-stakeholder sustainable use of mangroves programme in Madagascar

Madagascar hosts around 20% of Africa’s mangroves, which are vital for coastal livelihoods and biodiversity. However, unsustainable wood extraction for charcoal and construction has led to alarming losses of mangrove cover, threatening ecosystems and community resilience. To address these challenges, we supported the development of a multi-stakeholder programme promoting mangrove reforestation, community-based resource governance, and alternative livelihoods. The programme, implemented by Madagascar’s national parks agency in cooperation with international and local NGOs, combines conservation goals with inclusive economic development.

We facilitated the participatory design process – from defining a shared vision at a national conference side event to coordinating project selection through an interactive pitch day. Selected NGO initiatives were integrated into a coherent programme concept, and a joint workshop using Metaplan and Theory U methods ensured harmonized approaches and monitoring. The result is a coordinated platform for restoring mangroves and supporting sustainable livelihoods along Madagascar’s coasts.

Strengthening Pediatric Surgery in Ethiopia (JimmaChild)

With only five pediatric surgeons serving 41 million children, Ethiopia faces a severe shortage of specialists. The JimmaChild project, a collaboration between Ethiopian and German universities, set out to train more pediatric surgeons and strengthen medical education.

We supported the project’s design, proposal, and M&E framework, while facilitating workshops and coaching. Its success has inspired expansion to other universities, setting a model for sustainable pediatric health training in Ethiopia.

Innovative approaches for skills development and employment promotion for Africa

To support sustainable employment creation across Africa, we worked with our client to identify effective strategies for promoting not only more jobs, but better jobs. In a context of rapid population growth and shifting economic dynamics, we analysed regional trends and development challenges to provide strategic guidance on employment promotion. Our approach emphasised that valuable jobs are productive, safe, inclusive, and provide the basis for decent livelihoods.

Building on this analysis, we evaluated a range of project approaches to strengthen employment systems and job quality. These included policy-based operations to improve the framework conditions for jobs, initiatives that foster private sector innovation and SME development, and support for industrial zones as drivers of regional growth. We also explored opportunities in emerging labour-intensive sectors, such as the “green” construction industry, linking employment promotion to sustainability and long-term competitiveness.

Designing a Regional Migration Fund for the Horn of Africa

We assisted the German government and IGAD in designing a Regional Migration Fund to address displacement and migration challenges. Through consultations with communities and governments, we identified priorities in economic opportunities and inclusive infrastructure.

Our design study defined governance and operational frameworks, later validated in multi-stakeholder workshops. Formalised in an Aide Mémoire between IGAD and KfW, the Fund is now moving toward operationalisation.