Corprovid was founded in Colombia to respond to the growing humanitarian needs of Venezuelan migrants, particularly women and children who had experienced violence, exploitation and trauma. While the organisation was clear about its mission to prevent human rights violations and support integration into Colombian society, it initially faced challenges in determining how to operate effectively and maximise its impact.
Through its partnership with Pact in 2021 and 2022, Corprovid underwent an intensive capacity development process that transformed its ability to design, fund and implement its own initiatives. Pact provided strategic mentoring and practical support that enabled the organisation to strengthen its internal systems, refine its programming approach and better understand the communities it serves.
Capacity development is central to Pact’s global approach. Rather than delivering programmes in isolation, Pact works through local organisations, strengthening their leadership, management and technical skills so they can sustain impact long after external support ends. This approach applies across sectors, from health and environmental protection to governance and human rights.
Pact’s methodology begins with helping partners assess their strengths and gaps using established tools, followed by jointly developed action plans to improve administration, human resources, finance, programme design, monitoring and evaluation. Ongoing training and close mentorship ensure that organisations can translate learning into effective practice.
The results of this approach are evident across regions. Organisations supported by Pact have gone on to manage complex environmental challenges in Asia, support democratic processes in the Caribbean, advance HIV prevention and care in southern Africa, promote women’s rights and democratic reforms in Eastern Europe, and protect Indigenous rights and ecosystems in the Amazon.
In Colombia’s Sur de Bolívar region, Pact’s work extended beyond individual organisations to strengthening collective action. Local groups addressing child labour in gold mining were supported to collaborate, ultimately forming a formal solidarity network that now leads coordinated efforts to prevent child labour despite operating in contexts affected by armed conflict and weak state presence.
Across Africa, Pact’s capacity development has contributed to stronger local leadership in the fight against HIV, particularly among women and children. In countries such as Eswatini and Rwanda, partner organisations have expanded their reach, improved financial and programme management, and secured direct funding from major international donors, reinforcing local ownership of health responses.
With decades of experience, Pact has helped shape capacity strengthening approaches now widely used in global development. By strengthening not only organisations but also networks, institutions and systems, Pact ensures that progress is sustained. The organisation’s focus on working through existing local structures enables communities to lead their own development and reduces long-term dependence on external aid.
This long-term impact is reflected in recent results, with hundreds of local organisations improving their performance through Pact’s support and many gaining the capacity to access and manage large-scale funding independently. Through this approach, Pact continues to foster community-led development that delivers lasting change.
