Course Description
This intensive course is designed to equip finance professionals, project managers, accountants, and development practitioners with critical competencies in managing donor-funded projects. Participants will gain in-depth skills in financial planning, budgeting, compliance, risk management, and donor reporting in line with international standards and donor requirements (e.g., USAID, EU, World Bank).
Through practical exercises, case studies, and expert-led discussions, participants will learn how to ensure financial accountability, transparency, and value-for-money in all stages of the project lifecycle—from proposal development to final audit. Whether working in NGOs, INGOs, government agencies, or donor institutions, this course enhances institutional capacity to manage donor resources effectively and with integrity.
Course Objectives
• Understand the financial management cycle in donor-funded projects
• Prepare and manage project budgets aligned with donor expectations
• Apply financial controls, procurement procedures, and internal audit systems
• Track expenditures and perform variance analysis
• Interpret and comply with donor financial regulations and reporting formats
• Conduct financial risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies
• Prepare for and respond to donor audits and external reviews
Target Audience
• Finance and Budget Officers
• Project Managers and Program Coordinators
• Grant and Compliance Managers
• Internal and External Auditors
• Procurement and Administrative Staff
• Donor Liaison Officers
• Accountants and Financial Analysts in development institutions
Course Modules and Sub-Modules
Module 1: Foundations of Financial Management in Donor-Funded Projects
• Principles of financial accountability and stewardship
• Overview of common donor funding mechanisms
• Roles and responsibilities in financial project management
• Linking project goals to financial performance
Module 2: Budgeting and Financial Planning
• Budget structures: line-item, activity-based, and results-based budgets
• Budget development, justification, and negotiation
• Forecasting, cash flow projections, and fund utilization
• Mid-term budget revisions and donor approval processes
Module 3: Donor Compliance and Financial Controls
• Overview of donor financial guidelines (e.g., USAID, EU, UN, DFID)
• Cost eligibility, allowable and disallowable costs
• Setting up internal controls, segregation of duties, and audit trails
• Fraud detection and prevention
Module 4: Financial Reporting and Documentation
• Donor-specific financial reporting templates and deadlines
• Variance analysis and justification of deviations
• Supporting documentation, ledger reconciliation, and audit readiness
• Using financial software and donor portals
Module 5: Procurement and Asset Management
• Procurement planning and compliance with donor procurement policies
• Tendering, contracting, and vendor management
• Asset registers, depreciation, and disposal protocols
• Procurement audits and compliance checks
Module 6: Audit and Risk Management
• Preparing for internal and external audits
• Common audit findings and how to address them
• Financial risk identification, analysis, and mitigation
• Building a culture of accountability and continuous improvement
Module 7: Integrating Financial Management with Project M&E
• Aligning financial data with performance indicators
• Cost-effectiveness and value-for-money analysis
• Integrating finance into monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) frameworks
• Using financial insights to inform decision-making
Module 8: Capstone Project – Financial Management Simulation
• Hands-on budgeting, reporting, and audit response simulation
• Peer critique and expert guidance
• Final assessment and Certification
Key Beneficiaries and Users
• NGOs, INGOs, and government agencies managing donor projects
• Organizations seeking to improve audit preparedness and financial transparency
• Development institutions complying with donor standards
• Financial officers seeking advanced donor project finance training
General Information
Instructor-Led Sessions
Learn from certified financial experts and donor compliance advisors with global experience.
Real-World Application
Engage in donor-specific case studies, budget exercises, audit simulations, and peer learning.
Certification
Earn a recognized Certificate of Achievement in Donor-Funded Project Financial Management.
Mentorship and Support
Ongoing access to financial experts and professional peer networks post-training.
Duration Options
• 5-day (1 week) intensive program
• 10-day (2 weeks) comprehensive program
• 15-day (3 weeks) immersive practicum
• Part-time option available (evenings or weekends over 2 to 6 weeks)
Delivery Modes
• Onsite: At STRI training centers or customized in-house training
• Online: Live, instructor-led virtual sessions for global accessibility
Contact Information
Email: info@stepsureresearchinstitute.org
Phone: +254 723 482 495
Website: www.stepsureresearchinstitute.org
