In recent years, the lines between business and social responsibility have blurred. Corporates are no longer judged solely by their bottom line, but by the impact they have on people and the planet.
From community outreach to climate action, the rise of ESG agendas has made one thing clear: Companies can no longer do it alone.
This is where non-governmental organisations, or NGOs, come in. Known for their close community ties and issue expertise, NGOs have become essential partners for companies looking to deliver on their sustainability commitments. Whether it’s providing disaster relief, advocating for gender equity, or rolling out education programs in rural areas, NGOs bring invaluable credibility and reach.
But beneath the surface of these growing collaborations lies a deeper story, one of uneven power dynamics, fragile infrastructure and the urgent need to rethink how corporate–NGO partnerships are built and sustained.
More than just delivery partners
Corporates today are increasingly outsourcing their corporate social responsibility (CSR) implementation to NGOs.
In many parts of Asia, where regulatory mandates require companies to spend a portion of profits on social causes, NGOs serve as the go-to agents to get things done. The logic is simple: NGOs already know the terrain, have existing networks, and can reach underserved populations more effectively than most companies.
