Constraints Affecting The Fundraising Capability Of Community Development Associations In Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

The study was designed to analyse factors deterring the fundraising capability of Community Development Associations (CDAs) in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the profile of CDAs, evaluated their fundraising capability, and identified constraining factors affecting their fundraising capabilities. Data was collected from 270 respondents affiliated with 27 CDAs across nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Collated data were analyzed using descriptive (frequencies, means, percentages and ranks) and inferential (Principal Component Analysis) statistical tools. Findings indicate that CDAs are predominantly led by middle-aged individuals (51-60 years: 33.6%; 41-50 years: 29.9%), with a male-dominated leadership structure. The highest proportion of members hold higher education qualifications (50.7% first degree, 13.3% master’s degree), equipping them with strategic planning and financial management skills. Despite demonstrating strong technical capabilities in resource mobilization (x̄=3.23) and frequent engagement in fundraising (x̄=3.54), CDAs struggled with financial management, proposal writing (x̄=2.94), and online fundraising (x̄=1.84). Governance analysis showed committed board leadership (x̄=3.06), but comprehensive fundraising plans were moderately implemented (x̄=2.90). Six key factors were identified as constraint factors to the fundraising capability of CDAs. The major factors were: Organizational capability and internal challenges (which had strong loadings on insufficient investment in fundraising training and internal disputes); donor relations and proposal quality (which showed a high load on maintaining donor relationships); and financial management and accountability (which focused on weak financial recordsand delays in fund disbursement). The study concludes that weak internal structures, poor donor engagement, financial mismanagement, and resistance to innovation significantly hinder fundraising success. To mitigate fundraising constraints, the study recommends, among others, that CDAs strengthen financial accountability, invest in donor relations, leverage digital platforms and adopt innovative fundraising techniques.