Module 7: Project sustainability
Project sustainability
In this module, we will share with you some key ideas to consider making your project sustainable from the start, ensuring it continues to have an impact well into the future. Through smart planning, strong partnerships, and exploring different funding options, you can help your project last beyond its initial funding.
Introduction video
Why does project sustainability matter?
Some of you may have considered the longevity of your project, but it is okay if you haven’t. Whether you are planning a one-off event or short program, or you are already thinking of a project that aims to continue to be delivered, it is important to consider if you want to be able to continue your project beyond your initial funding.
- Project sustainability is thinking about the longevity of your project
- It is important to be clear about the aspirations for your project in terms of longevity
What are the impacts of planning for project sustainability?
- Expand Your Impact - With the right funding and partners, you can reach more people and sustain your project beyond the initial phase.
- Go Beyond Your Initial Grant – A single grant is a starting point and a chance to try something exciting and innovative. Planning for obtaining ongoing support ensures you’re not left scrambling for resources later.
What is your project lifespan?
- Different projects have different lifespans, so understanding this helps plan sustainability strategies.
Your project aspirations may fall into one of the three following categories:
No matter what category your project falls into, take a moment to consider:
A one-off event or initiative
- Is there a need or an opportunity to replicate this again?
A program with a specified timeframe and end date
- Is there a need or an opportunity to replicate what you have planned, or provide an ongoing program?
An ongoing program
- What plans have you put in place to help this program go into the future?
For projects that repeat or are long-term, it is important to consider ways to make your project sustainable. Some key areas to consider for project sustainability are:
- Funding
- Networks and partnerships
- Community ownership/involvement
- Evaluation and Impact
Funding
Ensuring your project can continue to make an impact after initial funding ends is a challenge everyone faces. Whilst sustainability is more than securing money, obtaining funding is crucial to continuing your project’s impact.
Getting ongoing funding isn’t just about filling out applications. It’s about making sure your project stands out and funders see the difference you’re making
Funding options to explore:
- Local council grants – Small funds to support ongoing initiatives.
- Corporate sponsorships – Businesses supporting community-driven projects.
- Crowdfunding & fundraising – Engaging the community for financial support.
- Fee-for-service models – Small payments for sessions, workshops or memberships.
- Philanthropic funding – Trusts and foundations that align with your mission.
- Partnership-based funding – Businesses or institutions funding specific project elements.
Revisit your Secondary and Tertiary Stakeholders list created in Module 4.4 to see if any of your network could be potential funders. Use the list above to brainstorm any additional funders you could approach.
This activity helps you map out your potential funders, your approach, how you can reach them, and who is responsible for doing so. Remember the work we did in crafting your pitch, as this may help you to communicate how your project aligns with a potential funder’s values!
Map funding opportunities and plan how to connect with the right partners.
Click to download the Supporters Mapping Worksheet (PDF)
Remember, funding alone won’t sustain a project; a successful project requires a network of support, local ownership and visibility.
Networks and partnerships
While your network can be established at the start of a project, it is important to consider how you can build partnerships in your network. Partnerships are a long-term support system that can help expand your impact.
Securing the right support is essential for success, whether through funding, sponsorships, or valuable partnerships. Consider who can provide financial assistance, contribute resources, or help expand your project’s reach
Support from partners can come in many forms, such as:
- In-kind contributions
- Shared resources
- Expertise
- Time
- Skills
- Reach
- Networks
Some key tips in building strong partnerships are:
- Involvement: Inviting participants to participate in the program, planning or celebrations of your project can build attachment and showcase why support is necessary.
- Communication: Keeping partners in the loop is important to maintaining relationships. A little goes a long way, whether it's an email, call or chat.
- Showcasing impact: Being able to share the successes and change your project is making in the world means your partners and funders are more likely to appreciate your project
Community ownership/involvement
There is no point running a project is no one participates! Keeping your community engaged is crucial to the success of your project over the long term.
Building a sense of ownership can help people feel connected and engaged with your project. Here are some ways you may build ownership:
- Give People a Role: Let community members take on leadership or volunteer roles to build commitment. People tend to become more invested in initiatives they feel they can contribute to and make a difference in.
- Create Ongoing Activities: Even small, informal meet-ups or online check-ins keep people involved.
- Keep Communication Open: Regular emails, social media updates, or community meetings maintain momentum. Remember what we covered in Module 5: Marketing!
- Celebrate Milestones Together: Acknowledging achievements keeps people excited and invested in the journey.
- Discuss impact and evolve together: Co-shaping your project to respond to participants' needs is a way to build empowerment.
Evaluation and impact
Talking about your project isn’t enough. You need proof. This is where your monitoring and evaluation efforts come in. The data, feedback, and success stories you’ve gathered are your strongest tools when applying for future funding, whether it’s through numbers or testimonials. If you can show that your project works, it becomes easier to secure support.
How you can use evaluation and impact for project sustainability:
- Show Proof of Success: Funders will respond a lot more positively if they can see proof that your project is making an impact. Updating funders on your progress and impact builds trust and makes them more likely to support you again.
- Tell a powerful Story: Don’t forget—stories are powerful! While data is important, funders also connect with real-life experiences of the people your project is helping. Show how your project has made a meaningful difference.
- Stay engaged with support network: Showcasing your impact to your network is a great way to increase support in your area. Stay in touch!
Summary
Project Sustainability isn’t just about securing endless grants, it’s about creating a self-sustaining ecosystem of support, funding, partnerships and evaluation that allows your project to grow over time.
Remember to:
- Think beyond funding: The most sustainable projects are built on strong networks, engaged communities, and a commitment to adapting based on real-world impact.
- Strengthen your network: Put effort into partnership and community involvement to maintain momentum
- Evaluate and adapt: Use feedback to evolve your project to meet your community's needs and how your project is going.