What is an NGO and how do you start one?
An NGO is a non-profit organisation with a societal, social, or scientific purpose. An NGO operates on a national or international scale and often has one clear goal. NGO stands for non-governmental organisation. Find out what you need to bear in mind when setting up an NGO.
What is an NGO?
NGO is a collective term for organisations that want to achieve a specific social, societal, or scientific goal. NGOs do not aim to make a profit and are not part of the government. Dutch NGOs usually have the legal structure of a foundation. An NGO usually works with volunteers and money from donors. An NGO offers assistance with social problems that require more support than the government or other (commercial) organisations can provide. Examples include food parcels in the event of disasters, school supplies for poor children, or refugee shelters.
NGOs can also be conversation partners for governments. For example, for advice or mediation in matters like climate, child labour, or human rights abroad.
Well-known examples of NGOs are Greenpeace, Médecins Sans Frontières, Oxfam Novib, and UNICEF.
How do you start an NGO?
Make sure you have a clear goal. What problem do you want to solve? How do you want to tackle it? And what do you need to do so? Make a business plan for this. Include:
- why your goal is important
- your target group
- the financial plan
- the probability for success
Register your NGO as a foundation with the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce KVK
The first step in starting an NGO is setting up a foundation (stichting). This is the legal structure most suitable for an non-profit organisation. You need a civil-law notary to set up the foundation. Then you have to register at the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce KVK. You do not need permisson to use the term NGO.
Check if there are suitable subsidies
There are several government subsidies and funds to boost your activities with a social purpose. For example, for sustainability, innovation, and international cooperation. View all subsidies to see if there is a subsidy available for your purpose.
Find donors for your NGO
Many NGO's receive money from donors. You can start looking for donors in your own environment. For example, by networking during meetings and events. Or organise an event yourself to promote the NGO. You can expand your reach via your own website and social media. You can also get publicity through advertisements or interviews on the radio and TV.
Recruit volunteers
A foundation often works with voluntary workers. If you wish to work with volunteers, you must comply with certain conditions. For example, if you wish to give your volunteer an allowance (to cover expenses). Find out what to consider when working with volunteers.
Working with the United Nations
International NGOs are sometimes enlisted by the United Nations (UN) to provide advice or act as mediators. For example, to deliver relief supplies or services to disaster-stricken areas. But also as a partner in discussions on development aid, or development cooperation. Ensure that your NGO is registered with the UN if you operate internationally.