At SYSTOPIA, we have developed a large set of CiviCRM extensions, Drupal modules and other tools. Currently, we are actively maintaining or co-maintaining over 60 repositories. In this blog series, we want to showcase some of the Civi tools we are most proud of: and the funding framework is a big one! Thanks for reading on.
Who is it for?
The funding extension is part of a larger funding framework that allows you to manage funding programs directly from within CiviCRM. It is aimed at foundations and other organizations that process funding applications. It provides a tailored and adaptable support for all administrative tasks that an organization needs to perform regarding funding management and distribution.
What does it do?
The funding framework is a combination of extensions and Drupal modules that integrate funding workflows into CiviCRM. It is the most comprehensive framework that we are currently developing at SYSTOPIA. The CiviCRM extension forms the core of the framework. The associated Drupal funding module provides a web portal specifically designed for the interaction with applicants and recipients. That way you can use CiviCRM’s extensive toolset to support diverse workflows around application processes. This includes:
- Managing funding programs with complex logic
- Mapping the funding application processes
- Receiving, reviewing and approving applications
- Allocating roles and authorizations in the whole process
- Creating funding program-specific online forms and document uploads
- Viewing the history of applications
- Communicating directly over funding cases with assessors and applicants
- Allocating funds
- Administering transfer contracts
- Receiving and checking receipts and accountability reports
How does it work?
Let’s take a look at this a demo instance where the funding portal is implemented to see how the extension works.
On the one hand you have your CiviCRM, where all your applications, data and activities live. The extension creates a new menu item in the main navigation. Under “Funding Program Manager”you can manage funding cases and applications. As an administrator you can also define and manage different funding programs.
For reviewers, the extension offers functionalities to review applications, revise them if necessary, approve or reject them and request disbursements.
The detailed view of an application includes its history, where reviewers can communicate status updates and requested changes directly with the applicant or other reviewers.
On the other hand, the framework offers a web portal for applicants to create and submit funding applications, get an overview of their pending application processes, as well as other self-service functions. This is achieved through a corresponding Drupal module and the interaction of different extensions, tools and modules. The look and feel can be customized via Drupal theme. If you are interested in the setup, take a look at the documentation.
Here’s how this can look like from an applicant’s view:
Funding portal dashboard 
Funding portal overview of applications 
Funding portal with open application form (in German) 
Funding portal view of application history
What is it good for?
The funding program manager is a powerful extension that widens the use of CiviCRM to competitive application management software. As such it offers everything foundations are looking for: it provides an easy access via web browser, it is completely open-source, highly configurable and expandable with Drupal modules, CiviCRM extensions and open API. Thanks to its generic development concept, the funding application portal offers many options for customer-specific customization. The biggest advantage is that organizations can fully digitize the entire application process, saving time, reducing errors, and enabling more efficient communication.
Anything else?
Do you want to see the funding framework in action? Discover our demo version where you can simulate the application and review process. Email us for a demo account.
The funding portal was developed with our pilot user Arbeit und Leben in mind, where it went live a few months ago. But we also made significant investments ourselves to create a modular framework other organizations can adapt and use. If your organization wants to improve funding application processes with CiviCRM, please feel free to contact us.
