How to Approach a USAID Concept Note

USAID Grants are probably one of the most competitive grant opportunities for NGOs, and, being successful takes time, and attention to detail. Often large strategic funders like USAID seek expertise on the ground to help meet its own development objectives, and small and medium sized NGOs who know their communities and understand local challenges and needs, are best placed to do this. To be successful in going through to the final stage of assessment, the Concept Note needs to stand out from the rest. It needs to comply with instructions provided in the guidance, and it needs to add value and complement USAID’s own development priorities. This training tutorial will help you to understand a) what a concept note is, and be more confident in understanding what Assessors want; b) Understand the fundamentals that must be followed; c) Know how to structure a Concept Note and the headings that should be included; d) Learn how to make your application stand out.