Workshop on “FCRA and Nation Building"

 

Strengthening NGO Capacity on FCRA Compliance for Nation Building

Implementing Organization

Jan Mitra Nyas

Supporting Partner

CTFK / GHAI

Date & Location

12-13 December 2025

Background and Rationale

Civil society organizations play a crucial role in social development and nation building. However, many grassroots organizations face challenges in understanding and complying with the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), which often limits their ability to access and effectively utilize foreign funding. Complex legal language, fear of non-compliance, and lack of technical guidance further discourage transparent engagement with foreign contributions.

To address these challenges, Jan Mitra Nyas organized a capacity-building workshop on “FCRA and Nation Building” with the support of CTFK/GHAI. The workshop aimed to simplify FCRA provisions and empower organizations with practical knowledge for lawful, transparent, and effective use of foreign contributions.

Objectives

The workshop was designed to:

  • Build awareness and understanding of FCRA provisions

  • Simplify legal and compliance procedures for NGOs

  • Strengthen financial transparency and accountability

  • Enhance confidence among organizations to manage foreign contributions

  • Promote responsible use of resources for sustainable nation building

Activities Conducted

The one-day workshop included interactive training sessions focusing on:

  • Understanding foreign contribution and eligibility under FCRA

  • Procedures for FCRA registration and compliance

  • Permissible utilization of foreign funds

  • Mandatory requirements such as designated bank accounts, annual returns, and documentation

Complex legal concepts were explained through simple language and practical examples, ensuring accessibility for participants from diverse backgrounds.

An open question-and-answer session enabled participants to share real-life challenges related to documentation, reporting, and compliance. Resource persons provided clear, actionable guidance tailored to practical field realities.

Results and Achievements

The workshop led to significant improvements in participants’ understanding and confidence regarding FCRA compliance. Participants developed clarity on legal obligations and recognized transparency and proper accounting as essential tools for organizational credibility, not merely regulatory requirements.

The program successfully reduced fear surrounding FCRA compliance and encouraged participants to adopt lawful and ethical practices. As a result, organizations are now better equipped to utilize foreign contributions responsibly and enhance their contribution to social development and nation building.

Sustainability and Way Forward

The knowledge gained through the workshop will have a long-term impact as participating organizations apply FCRA-compliant practices in their daily operations. Strengthened compliance systems will improve institutional credibility, donor confidence, and program sustainability.

Jan Mitra Nyas plans to continue similar capacity-building initiatives to support civil society organizations in governance, legal compliance, and accountability.

Acknowledgement

Jan Mitra Nyas sincerely acknowledges the support of CTFK/GHAI for enabling this important initiative and contributing to the strengthening of civil society for nation building.

Participants : 20 (15 Male and 5 female staffs and member of Management team )




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