Information sharing and engagement platforms for NGOs:

The value-add of the ECNGOC as umbrella structure includes capacity development and support of its members, ensuring coordination, collaboration and strengthening the collective voice (advocacy). The organisation keeps a database of its over 900 members that includes information on the regional and sectoral focus of the organisations. The database is used to connect members with stakeholders, share information about relevant events, learning and funding opportunities and promote peer-learning among members. The ECNGOC secretariat shares regular information on the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in the NGO sector and informs about its current initiatives and projects.

With support of by its long-term partner Mott Foundation and project-based funding by the National Lotteries Foundation the ECNGOC organized over the past years quarterly district dialogues in the 6 districts and 2 metros of the Eastern Cape that reached a minimum of 240 member organisations per quarter. The district dialogues are an important platform for information sharing, peer learning and forming joint advocacy positions. They help the ECNGOC to cascade down information and channel up concerns and suggestions of its members to provincial stakeholders and policy makers. The ECNGOC does not only engage on thematic issues but also advocates for fair and adequate regulation, administrative procedures, as well as support and funding mechanism in the NGO sector. Information gathering and surveys among members are utilized to develop evidence-based advocacy strategies.

" If we work together we will achieve our dreams... "

~ Anonymous