Access to funding: Good Practice Guideance from & for Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDS) in Low-Middle Income Countries (LMICs)

This guidance, “Access to funding: Good practice guidance from and for Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)”, was developed under the UK International Development funded AT2030 programme, led by GDI Hub. It is part of a wider project to understand and improve access to funding for OPDs, in support of a fairer world for people with disabilities.  

By bringing together experiences, practices, tips, and tools, this guidance supports OPDs globally who are working to fund their operations, access resources, grow their capacity, and continue their essential role in advancing the rights of people with disabilities. 

The guidance recognises that many funding barriers are systemic. Real change is needed from funders, donors, and development institutions. This includes fairer funding systems, more flexible and multi-year support, simpler processes, and genuine partnerships. 

At the same time, this document focuses on what OPDs can do now within the current funding landscape. It shares practical tips and strategies based on what has worked for other OPDs to access funding, strengthen their organisations, and build relationships with funders. 

The guidance highlights key areas that OPDs identified as especially important: 

• Organisational capacity - Strengthening governance, systems, and financial management in ways that work for OPDs 

• Confidence - Recognising lived experience, local knowledge, and community connections as strengths 

• Visibility - Helping funders better understand OPDs, their work, and their impact 

• Evidence and lived experience - Using both data and real stories to make the case for disability inclusion 

• Networks, partnerships, and collaboration 
  Working together through federations, coalitions, and trusted partners 

It draws on insights from the report “Pathways to Funding for Organisations of Persons with Disabilities: Landscape Review of Sources, Barriers and Opportunities”, which explores the wider funding environment affecting OPDs in low- and middle-income countries.