Project Cycle Management in NGOs: Challenges and Best Practices
Session
Management Business and Economics
Description
Project Cycle Management (PCM) in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) is a complex process often accompanied by challenges such as insufficient funding, limited human resources, and difficulties in measuring project impact. The aim of this study is to examine the most common obstacles faced by NGOs in managing projects and to identify effective practices that contribute to better outcomes. The research employed a qualitative approach, with data collected through a semi-structured questionnaire distributed to seven NGOs operating in Kosovo. The questionnaire primarily included open-ended questions designed to capture insights into the main phases of the project cycle: identification, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. The findings highlight several recurring challenges, including the lack of continuous staff training, the absence of systematic monitoring and evaluation tools, and uncertainty in securing long-term funding. Some organizations also noted the influence of international factors, such as reductions in donor funding during the Trump administration. Despite these obstacles, successful practices were identified, notably the active involvement of beneficiaries in project planning, the clear division of staff responsibilities, and the use of internal monitoring and evaluation (M&E) mechanisms. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of effective project management within NGOs and provides practical recommendations to enhance their efficiency and sustainability in society.
Keywords:
Project Cycle Management, NGOs, implementation challenges, best practices, monitoring and evaluation
ISBN
978-9951-982-41-2
Location
UBT Lipjan, Kosovo
Start Date
25-10-2025 9:00 AM
End Date
26-10-2025 6:00 PM
DOI
10.33107/ubt-ic.2025.430
Recommended Citation
Morina, Laurita and Zylfijaj, Kujtim, "Project Cycle Management in NGOs: Challenges and Best Practices" (2025). UBT International Conference. 45.
https://knowledgecenter.ubt-uni.net/conference/2025UBTIC/MBE/45
Project Cycle Management in NGOs: Challenges and Best Practices
UBT Lipjan, Kosovo
Project Cycle Management (PCM) in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) is a complex process often accompanied by challenges such as insufficient funding, limited human resources, and difficulties in measuring project impact. The aim of this study is to examine the most common obstacles faced by NGOs in managing projects and to identify effective practices that contribute to better outcomes. The research employed a qualitative approach, with data collected through a semi-structured questionnaire distributed to seven NGOs operating in Kosovo. The questionnaire primarily included open-ended questions designed to capture insights into the main phases of the project cycle: identification, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. The findings highlight several recurring challenges, including the lack of continuous staff training, the absence of systematic monitoring and evaluation tools, and uncertainty in securing long-term funding. Some organizations also noted the influence of international factors, such as reductions in donor funding during the Trump administration. Despite these obstacles, successful practices were identified, notably the active involvement of beneficiaries in project planning, the clear division of staff responsibilities, and the use of internal monitoring and evaluation (M&E) mechanisms. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of effective project management within NGOs and provides practical recommendations to enhance their efficiency and sustainability in society.