As we continuously struggle to find and apply for new grants, we often overlook the significance of another type of support that can be easier to mobilize and manage. In this case, there are usually no lengthy project proposals, no Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and in some cases, not even project reports demanded by donors. We are talking about in-kind support in form of books, computers, clothing, medicines and others that are equally important for your mission to help the poor.
Organizations can raise non-financial support easily from both agencies as well as individuals. While there are a number international agencies that mobilize, collect and distribute materials around the world for the poor and affected communities, there are also individuals and families willing to donate used items. Locally, you are mostly likely to find such people and seek their in-contribution for your work.
Before you can think of mobilizing in-kind support from individuals and agencies, you need to develop a wish list of what type of material you need. If you are working with poor children, then you may be looking for book donations or even toys. If you are serving a population that has recently been affected by a disaster, then you may need food and medicines as part of the urgent relief work.
One important factor to keep in mind while trying to mobilize in-kind support is the cost towards shipping the donated material. Many international agencies that arrange such resources also ensure shipping the material to the places where they are required. But local in-kind contributions can quickly add up as costs if they are mobilized from distant places, as transferring them to the place of need can be expensive.
We have gathered a list of international agencies that provide in-kind donations for NGOs around the world. Click on the ‘next’ link below to learn about these agencies.
