https://www.hindustantimes.com/opinion/why-non-profits-require-flexible-long-term-funding-101758642148037.html India’s non-profit sector: With over 3.9 lakh registered NGOs, many complement public systems and service delivery. Their adaptive, frugal models bridge last-mile delivery gaps effectively at low costs.
According to the India Nonprofit Report (INR) 2025 by Dasra and Kearney, a survey of 400 NGOs revealed 91% operate on annual budgets below ₹10 crore. However, over 70% reported funding deficits based on their annual budgets, Smaller organisations, most proximate to marginalised communities, are especially vulnerable to underfunding.
To enable meaningful impact, funders must adopt a catalytic role – moving beyond short-term, project-based funding toward investments that build institutional strength. Such support includes leadership development, strengthening core operations, and investing in systems such as data, digital infrastructure, and talent.