OVERVIEW
The NGOi certification is a voluntary and non-governmental review process that assesses the governance and administrative structures as well as operational principles of the NGOs. The performance of the organization on the certification process is assessed using evidence based criteria.
CERTIFICATION STANDARDS
Governance &
Strategic Planning
Documented governance approach, mechanism for accountability, mission, vision, and strategic plan.
Financial Management
Adoption of filing systems, auditing approach, and cost estimation and budgeting.
Risk
Management
Availability of an organizational risk management system and policy.
Monitoring & Evaluation
Ability to collect, analyze and manage program data to inform continuous improvement.
Community
Centricity
Capacity to assess the impact of implemented projects and their alignment with community needs.
Staff & Volunteers Management
Presence of internal management policies and procedures on staff-related processes.
Programs & Projects Management
Adherence to phases of project’s life cycle (i.e. planning, execution, monitoring, and evaluation).
Resources & Assets Management
Availability of a management system for assets and resources.
Proposal & Grants Management
Capacity to identify funds, develop proposals, and manage grants.
Communication & Reporting
Proper internal and external communication and reporting practices.
BENEFITS OF BEING A CERTIFIED NGO
- Recognition of the attainment of minimum standards of organizational and operational excellence
- Establishing organizational credibility with donors and funding agencies
- Facilitating continuous performance improvement
- Achieving proper operational policies and procedures
- Ensuring a community centric approach in organizational structure and operations
ORGANIZATIONAL CERTIFICATION PROCESS
The certification process of NGOi will include the following steps:
Step 1
Interested NGO submits a ‘request of certification’ form
Step 2
NGOi team reviews the request
Step 3
Upon approval of the request, the NGO is granted access to the full ‘certification application’
Step 4 *
NGO submits the requested information (i.e. documentation and self-assessment report) as per the certification application
Step 5
NGOi certification review team completes the documents review
Step 6
NGOi certification review team provides feedback to the NGO
Step 7
A site visit is scheduled and conducted
Step 8
Certification decision is made as follows:
1. If the result of the overall review process (documentation, self-assessment report, and site visit) is satisfactory, certification level is granted based on the generated certification score. The organizational certification is granted for 2 years.
2. If the result of the overall review process indicates the need for minor improvements, the NGO is required to submit a corrective action plan, and a re-assessment report is conducted within 6 months post decision.
3. If the result of the overall review process is unsatisfactory, certification is not granted and the NGO will not be able to re-submit a certification application before 6 months post decision.
*NOTE: NGOs that fail to submit their certification package by the indicated deadline will receive a 50% refund of the certification payment.