Building Alliances for Local Advancement, Development and Investment – Capacity Building (BALADI CAP) Quarterly Progress Report – Fiscal Year 2021 Quarter 1

The program also provided capacity building services and technical assistance to intermediate support organizations (ISOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), and FBO sub-grantees. During Fiscal Year 2021-Quarter 1 (FY21Q1), BALADI CAP supported FBOs in providing essential services, including healthcare, education, and economic empowerment, to vulnerable populations. The program also awarded sub-grants to ISO advocacy networks to tackle issues of environment, human rights, and accountability and good governance under the Civic Engagement Initiative (CEI) component. In addition, BALADI CAP provided technical assistance to CSOs and FBOs to enhance their capacity to address national priority issues. The program also continued to provide capacity building services to ISOs, CSOs, and FBO sub-grantees. Furthermore, BALADI CAP made plans to award an in-kind grant in Q2 to provide tailored institutional capacity building to the Michel Daher Social Foundation (MDSF), a sub-partner under the new Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods (PSL) activity. Despite delays and challenges caused by unprecedented economic, political, and health crises facing Lebanon, BALADI CAP made significant progress towards meeting its goals and objectives in this reporting period. The program's efforts were hindered by the economic crisis, which led to a shortage of funds and a decline in the value of the Lebanese pound. The COVID-19 pandemic also posed a significant challenge, with a surge in cases forcing the government to enact a complete lockdown in several villages. However, BALADI CAP adapted to these challenges and continued to implement its activities. The program's staff worked closely with its partners to ensure the continuation of essential services and capacity building activities. Despite the challenges, BALADI CAP was able to make significant progress towards meeting its goals and objectives in this reporting period. The program's achievements during FY21Q1 included the awarding of sub-grants to FBOs, ISOs, and CSOs, as well as the provision of capacity building services and technical assistance to its partners. The program also made significant progress in its capacity building activities, including the development of a revised communication plan and timeline. In terms of challenges, BALADI CAP faced significant delays and setbacks due to the economic and health crises facing Lebanon. The program's staff worked closely with its partners to adapt to these challenges and ensure the continuation of essential services and capacity building activities. Looking ahead, BALADI CAP plans to continue its capacity building activities and provide technical assistance to its partners. The program also plans to award an in-kind grant in Q2 to provide tailored institutional capacity building to the Michel Daher Social Foundation (MDSF). Despite the challenges, BALADI CAP remains committed to its goals and objectives and is working closely with its partners to ensure the continuation of essential services and capacity building activities.