The ADS projects’ sustainability sub-cluster is dedicated to ensuring that initiatives supported by DEP funding continue to thrive well beyond the funding period. A core strategy in this effort is capacity building, where local stakeholders—such as educators, community leaders, and businesses—are empowered through training to take ownership of the tools, knowledge, and practices introduced by the project.  

Financial sustainability will be addressed through the strategic allocation of DEP funding and the adoption of cost-efficiency measures, ensuring that resources are maximised while maintaining high standards of program quality.  

The sub-cluster will also focus on optimising program design for sustainability by incorporating detailed long-term planning, continuous monitoring, and robust evaluation mechanisms. This dynamic approach allows for the program to adapt and evolve in response to emerging needs, ensuring its ongoing relevance and impact. 

Additionally, sustainability metrics will be tacked to monitor and track the long-term outcomes of the initiatives, ensuring that the positive changes created by the program continue to have a lasting effect on the community.