Organisation Description

Fablab Winam is a community-based innovation hub in Kisumu, Kenya, dedicated to empowering young people, women, and local entrepreneurs through technology, creativity, and practical problem-solving. The organisation provides access to digital fabrication tools, STEAM learning, technical training, and mentorship, enabling communities to design solutions that address real social and economic challenges. Through its innovation programmes, youth skills development activities, and collaborations with schools, community groups, and development partners, Fablab Winam fosters local innovation, digital inclusion, and community-driven impact.

Project Scope

This project contributes to Fablab Winam’s mission of expanding innovation opportunities and building strategic partnerships that support youth skills development, technology access, and community-based problem-solving:

• Developing 3–5 concept notes across Fablab Winam’s innovation, STEAM, and community enterprise initiatives.

• Preparing 1–2 business development cases or draft donor proposals for potential partners.

• Conducting market research and partner mapping to identify 10–15 potential donors, tech partners, or innovation networks.

• Supporting the drafting of 2–3 budgets, 1–2 workplans, and basic theories of change for emerging projects.

• Assisting with donor engagement processes including meeting notes, briefing documents, and follow-up communications.

• Developing 1–2 pitch decks or capability presentations for stakeholder outreach.

• Supporting monitoring of the partnership pipeline and maintaining a simple outreach tracking log.

Project Outcomes

• 3–5 concept notes completed and ready for internal review.

• At least one donor proposal or business case drafted for a strategic funding or collaboration opportunity.

• A market and partner mapping report featuring 10–15 identified opportunities.

• Draft budgets, workplans, and a basic theory of change prepared for selected initiatives.

• Donor engagement support materials including briefing notes and follow-up summaries.

• 1–2 pitch decks or presentations suitable for outreach to partners, tech hubs, or funders.

• An updated partnership pipeline tracker showing outreach activities and recommendations.

Internship Requirements

• Analytical & Research Skills: Ability to conduct desktop research and synthesise insights into structured documents.

• Writing & Documentation: Competence in preparing concept notes, proposals, and short briefs.

• Innovation & Development Awareness: Interest in youth innovation, digital skills, STEAM education, or social enterprise.

• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office or Google Workspace, especially for budgets, tables, and presentations.

• Collaboration: Strong communication skills and the ability to work well with the Fablab Winam team and respond to feedback.