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 securing sustainable funding for community innovation and maker programmes by identifying grant opportunities, drafting proposals and supporting community-led fundraising:

•     Researching and mapping local and international donors focused on STEM education, circular economy, manufacturing, green and blue economies and fabrication technologies.

•     Developing and maintaining a database of at least 15 active grant opportunities matching Fablab Winam's scope.

•     Drafting 2 concept notes tailored to specific upcoming calls for proposals.

•     Assisting with proposal components including problem statements and target demographics.

•     Supporting the design and drafting of copy for 1–2 community-led crowdfunding or donation campaigns.

•     Developing a donor engagement email template toolkit to support outreach and follow-up.

Project Outcomes

•     A verified tracker of at least 15 active grant opportunities matching Fablab Winam's scope.

•     2 fully drafted concept notes tailored to specific upcoming calls for proposals.

•     Draft proposal components ready for internal review.

•     Copy and campaign materials for 1–2 community-led fundraising campaigns.

•     A donor engagement email template toolkit.

Internship Requirements

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

•     Writing & Documentation: Competence in preparing concept notes, proposal components and campaign copy.

•     Innovation & Development Awareness: Interest in STEM education, the maker movement, circular economy or community-based innovation.

•     Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office or Google Workspace, especially for trackers, databases and documents.

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