With just under two weeks to commencement, approximately 60 Jamaican non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are set to benefit from a high-impact capacity-building initiative under the prestigious Fulbright Specialist Program, aimed at strengthening their ability to secure sustainable funding and communicate impact more effectively.
The initiative is being delivered through a partnership between American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) and the UWI Mona School of Business and Management Professional Services Unit (PSU), and will culminate in an intensive, in-person training workshop from May 11–15, 2026 in Kingston.
Across Jamaica, many NGOs delivering essential services in vulnerable communities face persistent funding constraints—not due to lack of impact, but because of challenges in clearly articulating their value to donors. This initiative directly addresses that gap by equipping organisations with practical tools to better communicate results, strengthen donor relationships, and position themselves competitively for funding.
Demand for the program has been strong, with participation nearing capacity—underscoring both the urgency of the issue and the sector’s readiness to adopt more strategic approaches to sustainability.
The training will be led by Kevin Keenan, a Fulbright Specialist and globally recognised nonprofit leader with more than 30 years of experience. As founder of GROW Strategies LLC, he has supported organisations worldwide in expanding their reach and increasing financial sustainability. His previous leadership roles include senior positions at the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, ACLU of San Diego, and the Vera Institute of Justice.
“This programme is about helping organisations translate the important work they are already doing into compelling, credible narratives that resonate with funders,” said Keenan. “The ability to clearly demonstrate impact is what unlocks opportunity.”
Diane Edwards, Director of the Professional Services Unit at MSBM, emphasised the program’s relevance:
“Too many organisations doing essential work across Jamaica are missing out on funding simply because they are not telling their story effectively. This initiative is designed to change that—equipping NGOs with the tools to compete and grow their impact.”
Caron Chung, Executive Director of AFJ, highlighted the broader national importance: “When NGOs are underfunded, communities feel it. Strengthening their ability to attract funding is not just an organisational issue, it is a national development priority. This initiative supports stronger, more resilient organisations that can deliver lasting impact.”
In addition to the core workshop, select participating organisations will have the opportunity to receive tailored, one-on-one coaching and strategy development support.
The Fulbright Specialist Program, administered by the U.S. Department of State, connects institutions worldwide with leading U.S. experts to deliver high-impact, short-term projects that advance institutional growth and innovation.
With limited space remaining, interested organisations are encouraged to express interest immediately.
For more information and to attend: Email: events@theafj.org or 212-265-2550
Media Contact: Yasheka Nevers PR & Media Coordinator PR@onegroupja.com | 876-353-2732
About the Organisations
American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) Supports Jamaican development through grantmaking, partnerships, and capacity-building initiatives that strengthen civil society organisations.
UWI Mona School of Business and Management (MSBM) – Professional Services Unit (PSU) Delivers executive education, professional training, and organisational development programs across the Caribbean.