The Fiscal and Strategic Technical Assistance Program (FASTAP) was created by the member institution presidents in 1994. The purpose of the program is to provide institutions with fiscal management and strategic planning assistance. The goal of the program is to serve as a resource to improve financial management and strategic planning among member institutions.
FASTAP is designed to provide a set of comprehensive services that strengthens the leadership, management, and development of the 39 UNCF member institutions. Services include assisting the institutions in:
- identifying and prioritizing fiscal and strategic planning needs;
- conducting comprehensive fiscal management reviews and other appropriate analysis of institutional financial management operations;
- evaluating and developing strategies to enhance fiscal stability;
- developing a strategic plan with measurable goals and objectives along with an action plan;
- identifying needed resources for improving the quality and effectiveness of the institution's financial management systems; and
- developing a monitoring and evaluation system for assessing the effectiveness and impact of program activities.
A distinct feature of FASTAP is the use of consultants who possess specialized skills in the various areas that require technical assistance. These consultants provide institutions information regarding "best practices" in fiscal management and information on successful strategies for addressing capital projects, institutional maintenance, and debt retirement.
In addition to addressing financial management matters, another goal of FASTAP is to develop and coordinate workshops for senior administrators and trustees in an effort to identify viable operational strategies and best practices for improving institutional effectiveness. In addition these workshops will foster collaborative relationships and networking among professional peer groups.
