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SDG 17 Partnerships For The Goals

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

From Evaluation to Transformation: Enhancing Health Projects in Togo

To strengthen community health systems in Togo, we worked with a local NGO that had rapidly expanded its project portfolio thanks to new donor support. Our role was to evaluate its health programme portfolio and identify opportunities for improvement. Using participatory methods such as focus group discussions and the MAPP approach, we assessed project impact and organizational performance.

We then supported the NGO in enhancing its monitoring, evaluation, and reporting capacities – first through remote coaching, followed by a one-week on-site workshop. Together, we developed an organizational assessment, clarified strategic priorities, and delivered tailored trainings on reporting standards, logframe development, and M&E systems. The NGO now continues to expand its outreach and apply innovative approaches to improve health services in remote areas of Togo.

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.

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.