Fractional CxO program

As we approach the New Year, Project Tech4Dev is thrilled to announce the opening of applications for the 2024 cohort of the Fractional CxO Program. The program is aimed at embedding seasoned technology professionals in NGOs for 3-9 months to roadmap the organisation’s technology journey. 

They are inviting 3-5 forward-thinking organisations to join this exciting ohort, designed to empower your NGO’s technology, data, and tech strategy. 

How the Program Works

Once your NGO is selected, a seasoned technology professional will be assigned to work closely with your organisation. She/he will dedicate 8-16 hours per week to assist with various aspects of your tech transformation. Aspects worked on by a fCxO (each engagement is unique and will be shaped by each organisation’s needs and priorities) could include:

• Defining your technology and data strategy, if required

• Refining your technology and data vision

• Identifying tactical elements, such as software partners and build vs. reuse decisions

• Establishing efficient engineering processes in internal teams and/or external vendors to improve the delivery of software projects

• Providing hands-on technical expertise and acting as a tech lead or architect

• Offering guidance on best practices for data management, including security, privacy, and consent

• Assisting with the recruitment process for your internal tech team and/or upskilling and building the tech capacity of existing team members

Expectations from NGOs / Our Selection Criteria:

NGOs are required to:

• Have technology as one of the top 3 priorities for the organisation

• Ensure active involvement of their CEO and senior leadership, especially in the initial month

• Have a definitive organisational/program strategy and stable operational processes across the organisation

• Have tech and data systems that are not in crisis; they are functioning, albeit with room for improvement.

• Be willing to facilitate field visits as required by the fCxO

Application and Selection:

To kickstart your journey, simply complete the application form, providing insights into your organisation’s technology and data needs, as well as your vision and plans. Tech4Dev will carefully assess all applications and select a handful of NGOs that align with our criteria. They will contact you within a week of filling out the application form to have a conversation and better understand your needs and timelines. 

Scale and Duration:

Each fractional CxO typically works with 2 NGOs simultaneously, ensuring that their expertise benefits multiple organisations. The engagement typically lasts for 3-9 months, offering sustained support and guidance.

Cost:

Tech4Dev covers 1/3 of the CxO’s cost, while the remaining 2/3 is contributed by your NGO. The approximate cost for a half-time CxO (16 hours a week) is 1.12 lakhs per month. Substantial discounts will be offered to NGOs that share a common funder with Tech4Dev.

Long term Support:

Tech4Dev's commitment does not end with the CxO engagement. They are dedicated to supporting your NGO as it transitions to building its own tech resources or partnering with software providers. They’ll always be there to advise you when needed.

Work Location:

Fractional CxOs work remotely but can travel for in-person meetings and field visits as and when needed and mutually agreed upon. Most fCxOs engagements typically involve a 3-5 day visit during the first two months of engagement to better understand the NGO not just from a technology perspective but a more holistic organisational perspective. They also plan for regular 1-2 day visits during the course of the engagement. Your NGO is responsible for covering the CxO’s travel expenses.

Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing:

Tech4Dev's embedded CxOs hold weekly check-ins internally at Tech4Dev to share insights and learning experiences, creating a collaborative environment. Tech4Dev provides ongoing mentorship and support as needed. Fractional CxOs might also pull in another fCxO to assist in a specific tech or data scenario as they may be better equipped based on the expertise area.

Next Steps for Your NGO:

Tech4Dev is currently accepting NGOs on a rolling basis and plans to welcome a select group of 3-5 NGOs into our 2024 cohort. Do explore their blog, where you can gain insights into the transformative impact of our Fractional CxO Program.

Tech4Dev is eager to support your NGO’s tech journey in 2024 and help you achieve your goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your technology strategy. Look forward to receiving your application. 

If you have any queries regarding the program or while filling out the form, please do contact us at fcxo@projecttech4dev.org.