87% of NGO Employees Experience Positive Workplace Culture: Great Place To Work Report

Great Place To Work® India has released its latest report on the NGO sector, shedding light on the critical contributions of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), also known as Non-Profit Institutions (NPIs) or Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), to India’s economy and social fabric. The NGO sector in India is responsible for creating 2.7 million jobs, contributing an estimated Rs. 3.56 trillion to the country’s GDP, accounting for 2% of India’s total economic output. (Source: India’s Million Mission Report).

In FY 2022-23, nearly 19,888 companies collectively invested Rs. 26,000 crores in CSR initiatives, with Maharashtra and Karnataka emerging as major contributors. NGOs have been pivotal in executing CSR initiatives, with a strong focus on education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and rural development. Additionally, significant efforts have been dedicated to child welfare, environment and forests further driving social progress in these critical areas.

Another empowering aspect is that women play a significant role in the NGO sector, with almost 1 in every 2 employees (46%) being women. This reflects the sector’s commitment to gender diversity and empowerment.

Speaking of the announcement, Balbir Singh, CEO, Great Place To Work® India said, “The non-governmental sector plays a crucial role in India's socio-economic landscape, with NGOs contributing a staggering INR 3.56 trillion to our economy – equivalent to 2% of our GDP. These organizations, also categorized as Non-Profit Institutions or Civil Society Organizations, are instrumental in supporting the welfare of disadvantaged sections of our society. They work tirelessly in areas such as education for all, skill development, healthcare, and rehabilitation. Our recent research report, India's Best NGOs to Work For 2024, states that Pride and Purpose continue to be the driving forces behind employee satisfaction in the NGO sector. Our research also shows that India's Best NGOs to Work For report a 7% higher sentiment of retention among their employees compared to others in the sector. This is a testament to the powerful impact of creating a positive workplace culture. The scope of our study has significantly expanded over the years, with about 40+ NGOs participating in 2022 and over 115 NGOs in 2024. This growth reflects the increasing interest and commitment of NGOs to creating exceptional workplace environments and underscores the broader impact of our research in the sector.”

He also added, “The Best Workplaces™ in NGOs stand out by providing a superior workplace culture. They achieve this through a holistic approach to employee experience, focusing on key drivers that resonate deeply with employees. Our research reveals that employees in the NGO sector are driven by what we call the “5 GEARS”—Career Growth Opportunities, Egalitarian Treatment, Leadership Advancement, Respect and Care for Employees, and Psychological and Emotional Safety. By prioritizing these factors, these organizations not only enhance job satisfaction but also foster a supportive environment that empowers employees to contribute more effectively to their organization's noble missions. As we release the India's Best NGOs to Work For 2024 list, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and gratitude to every participating organization in making a difference. Your dedication to creating outstanding workplace cultures while serving society is truly commendable. You are setting benchmarks not just within the NGO sector but for organizations across all industries. Keep up the excellent work, and make a difference, both for your employees and for the communities you serve.”

However, despite the positive impact of NGOs, challenges persist when it comes to retaining quality talent. The report reveals that while 87% of employees report experiencing a great workplace, there are notable concerns regarding employee retention, particularly among younger employees. Nearly 6 out of 10 employees have a tenure of less than 2 years in their current organization.

The Great Place To Work® report emphasizes that while the NGO sector has made significant strides in job creation, CSR contributions, and fostering a strong sense of pride and purpose among employees, challenges related to talent retention and employee well-being must be addressed. Leading NGOs are setting the standard by focusing on creating a psychologically safe and inclusive work environment, where employees can thrive and contribute to their organizations’ missions.

Please find below the top 20 names under the India’s Best NGOs To Work For 2024: (in alphabetical order)

1. Ambuja Foundation
2. ARCH Development
3. Bharti Airtel Foundation
4. Dr. Reddy’s Foundation
5. End Poverty
6. Ipas Development Foundation
7. M.A.J. Hospital
8. Magic Bus India Foundation
9. NIIT Foundation
10. PANKH
11. Pinkishe Foundation
12. Plan International (India Chapter)
13. Saajha
14. Sampark Foundation
15. St. Jude India Childcare Centres
16. Tamahar Trust
17. The Akshaya Patra Foundation
18. U&I
19. United Way Mumbai
20. VisionSpring

Great Place To Work has also introduced a new list of Social Impact Icons this year. Please find them below in no particular order:

1. Bharti Airtel Foundation
2. Ipas Development Foundation
3. St. Jude India Childcare Centres
4. Equitas Development Initiatives
5. SEWA Rural
6. Room to Read India Trust