2014 One-On-One TA Guidelines

QUESTIONS? Email Emily Bradley (ebradley@unitedwayla.org)

Application Link: bit.ly/App4TA

Timeframe

ACTIVITY TIMING

Application Deadline Nov 12

Organizations Selected/Notified Nov 17

One-On-One Technical Assistance Process Nov 2014-Jan 2015 (depending on project)

Individualized Technical Assistance on an issue of your choice from the strategic management consulting firm NPO Solutions will be available from November 2014 - January 2015. To maximize and be respectful of all participants’ time, the timeline for meetings, phone calls, and deadlines will be coordinated between each organization and NPO Solutions directly. Technical Assistance Project Structure The structure of the technical assistance project will depend on each selected project and organization. Consultants will work with organizations to ensure full utilization of up to 4 hours of individual technical assistance. NPO Solutions may ask organizations to prepare a simple packet of briefing materials/examples so they can get up to speed efficiently and provide effective support. Depending on the project, board and/or leadership time may be necessary. Sample Projects United Way and NPO Solutions welcome your submission for technical assistance with the project or issue that will have the greatest impact for your organization. Examples of feasible projects that might benefit most from technical assistance are listed below. Please note, the sessions are an opportunity to engage the consultants as a sounding board to help you think through challenges and offer an external perspective, brainstorm ideas and develop problem solving strategies, and lay the groundwork or start a plan for future activity. Examples of potential Individualized Technical Assistance include, but are not limited to:

Leadership Coaching: Training for Board Chair or ED; Developing agenda for an upcoming board/staff retreat

Strategic Communications: Completing a stakeholder/messaging matrix; Assessing website for potential improvements, etc.

Succession Planning: Creating a template for a plan; Reviewing org structure, etc.

Fundraising & Grants Planning: Editing an annual appeal letter or LOI template

Financial Practices and Policies Review

Selection Criteria We plan to select 5 organizations for up to 4 hours of Individual Technical Assistance each. Projects with the best opportunities for selection will:

Present a sound starting point as a project idea (does not need to be fully formed)

Have appropriate capacity to participate in up to 4 hours of technical assistance support

Highlight a need of the organization that would benefit from consulting support Be understood and supported by all organizational stakeholders who would be involved in the process