Project Tech4Dev is excited to open applications for the 2026 cycle of our Fractional CxO Program — a unique opportunity for NGOs to embed experienced technology leaders and tech teams within their organisations for 6 to 12 months.
This program is designed to co-create and set the organisation on the path towards implementing a tech strategy aligned with organisational goals through our learnings across the sector of common and pressing gaps :
- Growing interest and potential for use of AI/ML solutions for more effective project delivery and data collection (e.g., voice-based interfaces for low-literacy communities)
- Growing demand for data-driven insights to inform strategic decision-making
- Challenges in initiating agile pilots and Proof of Concepts (“PoCs”) within conventional NGO operating environments
- Need for flexible, on-demand consulting support for ongoing technology and data initiatives
- Heightened importance of robust data management and security practices, aligned with compliance requirements (India’s Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act as an example)
A Proven Model: Fractional CxO + Tech/Data Team
In our most recent cohort, we introduced a Fractional Tech & Data Team model, combining the leadership of a fractional CxO with a specialized team covering product and program management, software development, data engineering and science, as well as AI/ML engineering. This integrated structure was designed to accelerate execution and enhance organizational agility.
Outcome: a set of agile, high-impact, and cost-efficient solutions that built upon established frameworks while being carefully tailored to align with each NGO’s strategic priorities.
What NGOs gain:
- A well-defined technology and data roadmap aligned with organizational mission
- Strengthened internal capacity for effective product and project delivery
- Evidence‑based decision‑making supported by reliable data insights through use of right data visualisation tools
- Agile prototypes and scalable pilot solutions enabling rapid innovation aimed towards helping NGOs visualise tech at work and providing a platform for scalability and sustainability
“The fCxO program has helped us establish the right infrastructure and systems around data, with a clear methodology that ensures we are using data to guide decisions rather than implementing tools for their own sake. Access to strong data expertise at a sustainable cost has been a significant advantage to the organization.“
Paul Gitonga Research Coordinator, Shujaaz
“I appreciate the “pilot first” mindset that the fCxO has brought to encourage more open thinking and experimentation.“
Kruthika Ravishankar, Co-founder, Farmers for Forests
How the Program Works
Expertise: Your NGO is paired with a seasoned Chief Technology/Data Officer (CxO) and a team for 6–12 months.
Custom Fit: Each engagement is tailored — from defining strategy to evaluating partners or building internal capacity.
Optional Add-Ons: Technology/Data/AI teams can be brought in as needed to accelerate prototyping or delivery.
NGO Eligibility
We’re looking for NGOs that:
- Technology is one the their three main priorities and strategic goals
- Commitment and active engagement by CEO/leadership in tech related interventions
- A clear organizational and program strategy supported by stable operational processes
- Operating from a position of stability rather than in reactive “tech crisis” mode
- Committed to spending on technology towards enabling organisational outcomes
Cost Structure
We co-invest with Tech4Dev covering part of the program cost.
NGO contribution: ₹2 Lakhs/month for a half-time (16 hours) fractional CxO + Tech Team (inclusive of GST). The fractional CxO in coordination with the NGO will bring in tech resources as needed and manage the team and their hours during that time. For example, a rapid development of a prototype could have the fCxO contributing 8 hours/week and a senior tech resource (~5+ yrs experience) putting in 12 hours/week for a month, followed by the fCxO still at 8 hours/week + a tech resource (~3+ yrs experience) at 8 hours/week and a project management resource (8 hours/week) for the next month as the project moves towards a full scale implementation with a vendor.
Timeline & Process
- Apply Now via our short application form
- We’ll follow up within a week
- Rolling onboarding for the April – June 2026 cohort
Field & Remote Work
Fractional CxOs & Tech team primarily work remotely but typically include:
- 3–5 day onboarding visit in the first month
- Multiple short field visits during the engagement (NGO covers travel/stay)
Ongoing Support & Peer Learning
All fractional CxOs engage in weekly peer sessions within Tech4Dev to exchange insights, resolve challenges, and foster collaboration. Cross-learning is embedded as a core principle of the program. When specialized expertise is required, a fractional CxO may draw on the support of another peer to address specific technology or data scenarios, ensuring the right capabilities are applied to each context.
Ready to Transform Your Tech Journey?
Apply now to bring senior tech leadership into your nonprofit — and build a tech strategy that powers your mission.
Questions? Reach out to us at fcxo.info@projecttech4dev.org
