SWOT Analysis Workshop

Materials

1. SWOT Analysis Template: Large printed templates or posters for group work.

2. Sticky Notes: For participants to write their ideas.

3. Markers and Pens: For writing on templates and sticky notes.

4. Flip Charts and Markers: For group presentations.

5. Handouts: Describing the SWOT analysis process and examples of each SWOT component.

6. Example Case Study: A fictional nonprofit organization profile for practice.

Preparation

1. Create and print SWOT analysis templates: Four quadrants labeled Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.

2. Prepare a fictional case study: Describe a nonprofit organization’s mission, current grant acquisition status, and any relevant background information.

3. Prepare handouts: Detailed explanations of what constitutes strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the context of grant acquisition.

Workshop Agenda (1 hour)

1. Introduction (10 minutes)

   • Briefly introduce the concept of SWOT analysis.

   • Explain its relevance to grant acquisition and organizational development.

   • Present the fictional case study to provide context for the activity.

2. Group Formation and Instructions (5 minutes)

   • Divide participants into small groups (4-6 members per group).

   • Distribute SWOT templates, sticky notes, markers, and handouts to each group.

   • Explain the task: each group will perform a SWOT analysis for the organization.

3. SWOT Analysis Activity (20 minutes)

   • Strengths (5 minutes): Groups identify internal strengths of the organization that can help in grant acquisition (e.g., experienced staff, strong community relationships).

   • Weaknesses (5 minutes): Groups identify internal weaknesses that could hinder grant acquisition (e.g., lack of grant writing experience, limited resources).

   • Opportunities (5 minutes): Groups identify external opportunities the organization can leverage (e.g., new funding sources, community partnerships).

   • Threats (5 minutes): Groups identify external threats that could impact the organization (e.g., increased competition for grants, policy changes).

4. Group Presentations and Discussion (15 minutes):

   • Each group presents their SWOT analysis.

   • Encourage participants to ask questions and provide feedback on each other’s analyses.

   • Discuss common themes and differences observed among the groups.

5. Developing Strategies (10 minutes):

   • Based on the SWOT analyses, each group develops one or two strategies to enhance their grant acquisition efforts.

   • Strategies should focus on leveraging strengths, addressing weaknesses, seizing opportunities, and mitigating threats.

6. Wrap-Up and Reflection (10 minutes):

   • Summarize the key points from the SWOT analyses and strategies discussed.

   • Reflect on how this exercise can be applied to their own organizations.

   • Encourage participants to use SWOT analysis regularly as part of their strategic planning for grant acquisition.