The AfID Annual Mentorship Programme provides charities and NGOs with access to an experienced finance professional who can act as a trusted mentor or sounding board for members of their finance team.

Many finance professionals working in growing or resource-constrained organisations carry significant responsibility but may not always have access to senior support or guidance. This programme helps address that gap by providing ongoing access to an experienced mentor who can offer advice, perspective and practical insight.

How the programme works

Each organisation is carefully matched with an experienced finance professional whose background aligns with the needs of the organisation and the individual being supported.

The mentor provides light-touch advisory support over a 12-month period, typically contributing 1-2 hours per month.

Sessions are flexible and can be arranged as needed, usually through video calls or online meetings.

What the mentor can support with

Mentors act as a confidential sounding board and can support finance staff with areas such as:

• strengthening financial management and reporting
• developing budgeting and financial planning approaches
• navigating organisational growth and increased donor expectations
• improving financial systems and internal controls
• building confidence in board or leadership discussions

The programme focuses on advice, reflection and strategic guidance, rather than delivery of operational work.

Who the programme is for

The mentorship programme is particularly valuable for:

• Finance Managers or Finance Directors working in small or growing organisations
• finance staff stepping into more senior responsibilities
• organisations seeking additional strategic finance guidance without creating a new role

Our mentors

Mentors are drawn from AfID’s network of experienced finance professionals, many of whom have held senior finance leadership roles in both the private and non-profit sectors.

They bring practical experience and a collaborative approach to supporting organisations as they strengthen their financial capacity.

Next steps

If your organisation would benefit from having an experienced finance mentor available throughout the year, we would be happy to discuss how the programme could support your team. Request Support or contact us at partners@afid.org.uk.