What We Do

Crescendo International works globally to strengthen a more sustainable humanitarian sector. Working with global leaders, we develop and improve systems and conduct research that improves disaster mitigation and recovery. Currently we are working with the emergency response team of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Network for Empowered Aid Response.

Crescendo’s Focus and Expertise

With 100 years of combined experience in the humanitarian field, Crescendo can support organizations to:

  • Develop innovative and impactful strategic plans

  • Develop sustainable growth and business plans

  • Measure organizational impact with innovative practices

  • Conduct research with local communities

Experience of Hibak Kalfan, Executive Director of NEAR

“Mike Delaney has provided support to the network as a facilitator, coordinator and most recently organizational development consultant. With his support the network has been able to improve our governance practices, develop our strategic plan through a thorough participatory process with members and is now providing organizational structure and system development support for both internal and external processes. He has quickly understood both our organizational needs, as well as the needs and pains of Global South civil society. His contribution has provided immediate positive change while ensuring long lasting sustainable systems change for our larger community.”

Research: Let Your Voice be Heard

Summary of Key Findings

1. Local and national organizations have a realistic understanding of their current capabilities and want to be able to do more.

2. Anger is building among local and national organizations in the humanitarian sector over:

a. The limited amount of money that actually goes to local organizations;

b. A lack of transparency in financial arrangements of subcontracting;

c. An absence of influence at the tables where decisions are made and a lack of support for building the skills to allow them to have more influence.

3. Current support for capacity building is not responsive to actual needs. 

Read the entire report here.