Plan International income - generation project matching grant evaluation

External evaluation covers the period 1987-9/90. Although PI has adopted IG/ME as one of its three major program areas, the project has had only limited success, largely as the result of weak central coordination and a lack of field-level training. PI headquarters has not provided clear guidance on what constitutes an IG/ME project or how to implement such activities. As a result, field directors have often used project funds for activities which do not necessarily involve income generation or the establishment of small businesses. Moreover, it is impossible to readily determine which initiatives are funded under the project, since IG/ME funds are commingled with all other IG funds. Field staff also lack specialized training and technical manuals in IG/ME. As a result, IG/ME projects are often designed in the same way as other activities. Project shortfalls are largely due to PI's lack of experience in areas other than charitable assistance. The new focus on IG/ME entails new activities, including feasibility studies, loans, and TA in administration, production, and marketing. Although some field offices are making individual progress in these areas, PI will have not only to provide stronger coordination but undergo a restructuring. Evaluation includes case studies of PI activities in San Pedro Sula, Honduras; Bolivar, Ecuador; Kandy, Sri Lanka; and Bali, Indonesia.