A Library of Knowledge and Tools Available at the Fingertip of SMOs
5-year target already surpassed by 28%
November 26, 2020
Spur change has launched a Resource Library of 160 curated resources categorized into seven thematic areas. Six months in development, the Resource Library was a key recommendation of the SMO Needs Assessment Report published in March, and will allow SMOs to access information in an open and flexible format.
“The Resource Library provides a collaborative space where SMOs can share expertise and information. This library also allows organizations to share resources and training with their local partners, which was a need identified by SMOs. Ultimately, it’ll increase the effectiveness of programs and projects that work towards gender equality, the empowerment of women and girls and the achievement of SDGs,” said Andréanne Martel, Spur Change National Program Director, “we are super excited to support SMOs in this way.”
The Spur Change program aims to increase the effectiveness of Canadian and local SMOs to deliver sustainable results in support of the Feminist International Assistance Policy (FIAP) and the SDGs. If Canadian SMOs can ensure all of their programming respects the practices and principles of this feminist development lens, Canada’s international development efforts will be greatly enhanced.
The resource library includes documents, videos, training sessions and resource templates divided into seven main categories:
- Project Cycle Management
- Gender Equality & Inclusivity
- Communication, IT & Partnerships
- Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning
- Public Engagement & Global Citizenship Education
- Organizational Development
- Resource Mobilization
“Although we have very good uptake on the training resources already available on our website, having them tagged by theme and categorizes in one place will make easier for SMOs to find exactly what they need,” Martel said, adding, “their time is at a premium and we wanted to respect it.”
With 160 resources, the Resource Library has already surpassed its 5-year target of creating 125 assets and is anticipated to grow even larger. It will be updated after every learning opportunity for the next 3 ½ years.
SMOs spoke vigorously in favour of accessible, flexible, participatory and peer-to-peer knowledge sharing, using a variety of delivery methods. The objective of each capacity-building opportunity is to increase the ability of Canadian SMOs to be active players in International Development. The Resource Library is one way Spur Change is delivering on the emergent needs of SMOs.