Guide to Engaging with NGOs

As companies with global operations seek to enhance their corporate social responsibility efforts, many are finding value in dialogue and other engagements with nongovernmental organizations, or NGOs. Business for Social Responsibility (BSR) has worked with its company members to create a framework for understanding the growth and evolution of these partnerships. In this report, we present a process for proactive relations and engagement with NGOs.

Part One of this report traces the emergence of such partnerships, explores the benefits and risks to companies, provides insights into the motivations for NGOs to partner, and describes lessons learned from ongoing engagements. Part Two outlines practical steps and key considerations to help companies identify relevant NGOs, assess and select among potential NGO partners, and implement in effective project involving NGOs.