STOK 200: “Everyone Loves a Plan” We have started accepting applications for the Face-to-Face Training Program

In the Everyone Loves Planning Program, we have prepared a 12-day training series that approaches topics such as strategic planning, project cycle management, project implementation processes, and monitoring and evaluation as a whole through a theory of change perspective. The content of the series is as follows: 

• Change-oriented thinking: In the first module of the program, we will turn our focus to "change-based thinking." We will explore how to construct change pathways from the current situation towards the desired future and deeply analyze the stakeholders, external conditions, and fundamental assumptions that shape this process. By the end of the training, we will have a change map that allows us to incorporate the change dynamics we've identified into our organizational plans.
• From change to planning – organizational planning: At this stage, where we will focus on planning processes, we will learn to use critical tools for analyzing the current situation. Using the output of this analysis, we will filter the change pathways identified in the first training through a strategic lens. The training will conclude with a hands-on experience of turning our prioritized strategies into concrete objectives and measurable indicators.
• From change to planning – program/project planning: In the third stage of the program, we will practically work on action and resource planning. Based on the strategies and objectives we defined in the previous training, we’ll cover activity and budget planning in detail. Then, we’ll see how to design program and project development processes, based on the organizational plan, with a project cycle management approach.
• Implementing plans and organizational learning: In the final session of the series, we will center on the critical issues we need to manage when bringing these plans to life. We will focus on various operational topics, from human resources management to communication, financial management to digital tools, as well as monitoring and learning processes. We’ll also discuss common challenges encountered in practice and proposed solutions to overcome them together.

Training calendar and application process

You can apply for the entire training program, which covers a 4-month period from February to May 2026, using the same application form. We expect NGO representatives whose applications are accepted to participate in all training sessions in full. Dedicating 3 days per month for each module will be sufficient.

The planned course dates are as follows:

Click to apply!

Application deadline: January 25, 2026, Sunday, 23:15.

• Two (2) representatives from each organization are required to attend the training program. 
• The application evaluation process is expected to be completed within 10 business days, and results will be communicated via email. 
• Accepted participants will be asked to provide a “letter of support” confirming their NGO’s approval of participation in the training program.

How will the evaluation be conducted?

• Participation will be limited to 20 people to ensure an effective and productive training process. The following criteria will be the basis for evaluation. 
• The application form must be completed fully and with quality
• Consistency between the purpose of application, expectations from the training, the capacity and needs of the applicant NGO, and the objectives of the training program
• Regional distribution
• Thematic distribution
• Gender balance

Priority will be given to rights-based NGOs*, grassroots organizations, self-organized groups, organizations with experience implementing EU projects, and those who have not previously benefited from the STOK program. 
When you apply, having completed the online content in the “Everyone Loves Planning” section of the STOK learning platform will give you priority.

Note: In applications that are entirely filled out with the help of artificial intelligence, it is difficult to identify the unique needs and expectations of the organization. This issue is considered in the evaluation. 

We have a suggestion for you! 

Before applying, we recommend that you complete the online content titled “STOK 200 Everyone Loves Planning” on the STOK Learning Platform. Completing this content ensures your application will be given priority in the evaluation.

*A rights-based approach defines individuals as rights-holders and state institutions, and increasingly the private sector, as duty-bearers. The rights-based approach, grounded in human rights principles and standards, aims to develop the capacity of individuals to claim and defend their rights, and of institutions to fulfill their rights-related obligations.