Among the many different types of non-governmental organization development, also known as NGO development, is grass-roots development. Another type includes groups of people who are not necessarily affected by an issue, but who choose to work together to support a common cause. The formal development of an NGO is another approach to developing an NGO. This includes actually establishing an NGO as a legal entity. Once a cause or issue has been identified and a formal entity has been organized, another type of NGO development, financial development, can be addressed.
Individuals who work on NGO development generally fall into one of two categories. The first is a group of people who are affected by a common cause or condition and who come together in order to address the group’s issues in an effort to promote change. This type of NGO development is what is commonly referred to as grass-roots development.
A second type of NGO development is generally established by people who are not directly affected by an issue or a condition, but have a will to help those who are. In social organizations like these, volunteers unite around a common cause in an effort to improve the lives of others. The purpose of this type of NGO is usually clearly spelled out in the organization’s mission statement.
Once the decision to form a not-for-profit organization has been made, a formal development process often begins. In this stage of NGO development, a legal entity is formed according to the laws where an organization will operate. Many independent organizations also adopt bylaws, form boards and committees, and institute other formal practices in an effort to ensure that an organization’s goals are met.
Many civil society organizations start with very small budgets. In order to expand operations and achieve certain goals, an NGO development plan is usually drafted that includes ways in which an organization can secure funding to operate. Many NGOs host fundraising events as well as apply for grants and loans in an effort to raise capital. With a solid focus on sound financial development, many not-for-profit organizations are able to hire paid staff, as well as purchase supplies and outreach materials to help further their cause. The scope of this type of NGO development will vary according to the causes being addressed by a non-governmental organization, as well as its regular operating costs.
