The Power of Six: Practical Tips for Local Fundraising in Ghana and Beyond
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“Our people give. We need to open our minds and understand why.” – Charles Kojo Vandyck
I recently had the opportunity to attend the 2025 Ghana Civil Society Forum, held from June 25 to 26, 2025, which brought together over 500 changemakers from across the country to discuss the future of civic action and how to fund development. One session that really stood out was the masterclass on local fundraising, co-led by Charles Kojo Vandyck, Head, Capacity Development Unit at WACSI and a local fundraising master trainer within the Change the Game Academy programme (CtGA), and Nancy Kankam-Kusi; Programme Officer, Knowledge Management Unit at WACSI. It was practical, inspiring and full of useful lessons. Vandyck shared what he calls the “Power of Six” for local fundraising.
With international funding becoming less predictable and communities wanting more control and accountability, Vandyck’s framework couldn’t have come at a better time. Every civil society group in Ghana and beyond, needs to understand/ be aware of this.
- Use Simple Language
Vandyck stressed that civil society organisations (CSOs) must explain their purpose clearly. We often use complex language that makes it hard for people to understand what we do. He asked: “Would your grandmother understand your organisation’s mission?” If not, you need to simplify it. When people understand us, they are more likely to support us.
- Connect with the Community
Fundraising is about building relationships. CSOs should be part of the communities they serve by attending events—like the Ghana CSO Forum and Ghana Philanthropy Conference—listening to experts—in local fundraising and resource mobilisation—and showing up. When communities feel respected and valued, they’re more likely to trust and support our work.
- Acknowledge what we already have
Vandyck encouraged us to stop thinking in terms of lack and start recognising the resources we already have. Giving is part of our culture through church offerings, savings groups, funerals and communal work. “Our people give,” he said. We must understand the traditions behind this giving and build on them.
- Local Fundraising Must Be Planned
Planning is key and inevitable. Local fundraising is not a backup; it should be part of the organisation’s core plan. Local fundraising should not be an ad hoc or accidental eventuality. Don’t wait until funding runs out. Be proactive. Know your audience, choose the right tools and stay true to your values. Fundraising must be ethical, inclusive, and people-focused.
- Be Open and Honest
Local donors are close to us and our work, and they would request accountability. They will ask where their money went and what difference it made. This is fair. We should be ready to answer, share updates, report progress and listen to feedback. Being open builds trust.
- Learn and Grow
There is no perfect formula. Start with a small event or campaign. Try using mobile money or WhatsApp to ask for support. An excellent example of an organisation that uses mobile money to raise funds is My Hereafter Ghana. Penplusbytes also has the Yen Somu bi, a local crowdfunding platform, that helps CSOs to raise funds domestically. It’s important we know that it’s okay to make mistakes, what matters is that we keep learning and improving. Every step forward builds experience and confidence.
Why This Matters
This session reminded me that rethinking funding is not about rejecting international support. It’s about shifting power, rebuilding relationships and owning our role in change. Local fundraising, when done with purpose and integrity, gives us stronger roots and deeper legitimacy.
Vandyck’s “Power of Six” is not just a fundraising plan; it is a way for civil society to lead differently: with clarity, trust and a belief in the generosity of our people.
If you work with a CSO, think about these lessons. Local fundraising is not only possible but is already a part of who we are. Let us understand it better and build something powerful from it.
About the author
Deborah Nana Ama Abbey
Deborah Nana Ama Abbey is a development practitioner with expertise in communication, youth empowerment, advocacy and human rights. With a diverse professional background, she has contributed her skills to various national and international organisations. Community engagement lies at the heart of Deborah’s values, as evidenced by her initiative “Every Kid Deserves Christmas,” which brings joy to hundreds of children from underprivileged backgrounds every year. Currently, she serves as a communications assistant, where she plays a pivotal role in driving positive change and development at the West Africa Civil Society Institute.
