Biodiversity conservation relies not only on technical expertise and commitment in the field, but also on sustainable financial resources that enable ideas and projects to become meaningful action for both nature and local communities.
With this in mind, Madagasikara Voakajy (MV), in partnership with Chester Zoo, organized a fundraising capacity-building workshop in Antananarivo from 3–5 June 2026. Thirty participants from MV, Fanamby, Mampita, MFG, Impact Madagascar, MICET, Tsimoka, Sadabe, and GERP came together to strengthen their skills, exchange experiences, and build connections.
Over three days, participants explored the foundations of effective fundraising, including identifying funding opportunities, developing donor engagement strategies, writing stronger proposals, managing donor relationships, and building resilience in the face of rejection.
The workshop also introduced participants to emerging tools, including artificial intelligence, and explored how these technologies can support fundraising efforts by identifying opportunities and strengthening proposal development.
A Space for Learning and Collaboration
Beyond technical skills, the workshop provided a valuable platform for peer learning among organizations working to conserve Madagascar’s unique biodiversity.
Participants discussed common challenges in fundraising, shared experiences and good practices, and identified opportunities for future collaboration. These exchanges helped strengthen relationships between organizations while encouraging a more strategic and collaborative approach to conservation funding.
One of the key messages throughout the workshop was the importance of moving beyond opportunistic fundraising and investing in long-term donor relationships that can support lasting conservation impact.
Investing in the Future of Conservation
The success of this initiative will not be measured solely by the number of people trained. Its impact will be reflected in the partnerships that grow stronger, the opportunities that are shared, and the resources mobilized to support conservation efforts across Madagascar. Mobilizing the resources needed to protect biodiversity requires a collective effort involving conservation practitioners, leaders, communicators, financial teams, partners, and donors.
Madagasikara Voakajy extends its sincere thanks to Chester Zoo for sharing its expertise and facilitating this workshop, and to Rainforest Trust whose support helped make this initiative possible. Together, we are strengthening the capacity of local conservation organizations to create lasting impact for Madagascar’s biodiversity and communities.
