How We Work

Near East Foundation’s work is based on the conviction that to actively contribute to and benefit from development in their communities and countries, all people require opportunities and capacity (knowledge) to participate effectively in public and household decisions and peacebuilding (voice) and for making a safe and meaningful living (enterprise). Although the nature and impacts of our projects vary, they are all designed to support NEF’s Knowledge, Voice and Enterprise framework.

Our Approach

KNOWLEDGE

Basic knowledge is essential to self-development and community improvement. Without it, individuals have difficulty taking on new opportunities that improve their livelihoods.

Poverty and vulnerability to exploitation persist, often while the society around them prospers. NEF’s job training, climate adaptation, coaching and resources increases the knowledge needed to prosper. In addition, NEF training on communication, negotiation, and conflict management and resolution supports peacebuilding efforts in communities affected by conflict.

Voice

Many individuals and communities are excluded from public decision-making due to marginalization, lack of education, established gender or cultural norms and geographic isolation.

They have no seat at the table or political power. NEF helps build the capacity of community groups so they can engage community members, take collective action, and represent their members effectively. When marginalized individuals can access or organize associations, they can develop their voice, build leadership skills, advocate for their interests and rights in decision-making, and increase their agency.

ENTERPRISE

Our approach to creating economic opportunity varies according to the needs of our local partner communities.

In each case, NEF helps create, expand, safeguard, and recover jobs and income opportunities through business development, employability, microfinancing, value chain development, and improved agriculture and natural resource management.

What Makes Us Unique

Local Partners

We are a trusted partner of conflict and crisis-affected communities as they advance their knowledge and decision-making capacities and resources to improve their self-reliance and wellbeing sustainably through safe, stable, and dignified livelihoods.

NEF invests in local capacities, partners, and institutions to ensure that actions are responsive to local priorities and needs, owned by local stakeholders, and empower local leadership in understanding and managing climate risks and achieving inclusive and sustainable development.

Replicable Models

NEF’s local capacity and long-standing relationships enable us to pilot and refine innovative solutions to local development challenges. While our activities are rooted in grassroots action, the approaches and tools we develop gain traction far beyond the communities in which we work.

Enduring Relationships

Our strong local and global partnerships are central to our mission of serving marginalized communities.

NEF has sustained its presence in partner countries and communities over many years. These long-term relationships give us deep knowledge of local circumstances and challenges. Just as important, the relationships and NEF’s local reputation are a foundation for trust with groups that are often difficult to reach.

Local Partners

We are a trusted partner for conflict and crisis-affected communities as they gain knowledge and power to control their wellbeing through safe, stable, and dignified livelihoods.