Since 1990, the Support Project for Small-Scale Producers and Artisanal Fishermen in the Semi-Arid Zones of Falcon and Lara States (PROSALAFA) faced several difficulties, including restrictions, issues, adjustments and change, which finally allowed it to incorporate a participatory approach into its planning, monitoring, evaluation and systematisation process. This also allowed initiating an awareness-raising and reflection process on an evaluation culture, with a view to improving and creating new learnings. The following elements were instrumental in achieving the adjustments and actions needed: using participatory methodologies in capacity-building and motivation processes; institutionalising M&E within the implementing agencies; being supported by organisations and networks; all the project stakeholders opening up to change; recognising and using local capacity; and, finally, making the commitment to use the evaluation findings.