NGO Membership Models
The structure of NGOs worldwide takes a number of forms depending on various aspects (see for example,
Keywords and Concepts associated with NGOs). The following is a selection of models that define the membership structure of NGOs.
- Exclusive membership model: In this model, a small number of clients or member organizations pay a substantial up-front fee and an on-going amount to fund the NGO in return for implementing a project or conduct research.
- Single-tier membership model: here, the NGO has one level of membership, where all members have identical rights and responsibilities. The members are comprised of individuals or organizations.
- Multi-tier membership model: Several levels of membership comprised of a variety of organizations. The members may pay a fee based on the country where they are located, or it may be a voluntary/free membership.
- Project model: In this mode, funds for the operation of the NGO are secured for developing and implementing individual projects. Overhead costs are usually built in to cover infrastructure and other costs.
- Licensing model: An NGO may offer licenses at cost for the use of its products.
- Consultancy model: The NGO charges fees for products and services that it offers, including capacity building, training, publications etc.
- "Academic model": This is the case where Infrastructure such as physical facility, access to experts and student labor are provided by a host institution such as a university, usually free of charge or at cost.
- Source:
- Multiple sources, cited in different articles, brochures and websites.
Return to the NGO Page
Comments and suggestions:
Hari Srinivas - hsrinivas@gdrc.org
|