Solutions to broad challenges often start with small actions, and when confronted with a social need or problem, one of the ways you may consider taking action is by starting your own nongovernmental organization.
But launching an NGO is by no means an easy endeavor, and you’ll need more than good intentions to make it work. It’s a long journey requiring strong vision, thorough research and long-term commitment.
If you’re already at the stage where you are thinking about establishing an NGO, chances are you already have a reasonable understanding of what you want to do and how you will do it. But before diving head first into the paperwork, it is crucial that you take the time to evaluate the environment you plan on operating in.
Over the past few weeks, Devex talked to various NGO founders to find out the opportunities — but also challenges — associated with their choice of location, and some of the fundamentals you should take into consideration when deciding on where to set up shop.
About the author
Manola De Vos
Manola De Vos is a development analyst for Devex. Based in Manila, she contributes to the Development Insider and Money Matters newsletters. Prior to joining Devex, Manola worked in conflict analysis and political affairs for the United Nations, International Crisis Group and the European Union.
