Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding has become a crucial support system for NGOs to continue and scale their social impact initiatives. If you run an NGO and are wondering how to get CSR funds and what steps are necessary, this blog post is for you.
What is CSR Funding?
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to the legal obligation of companies to contribute to social causes. Under the Companies Act, 2013 (India), the following companies are required to spend 2% of their average net profits over the last three years on CSR activities:
- Companies with a net worth of ₹500 crore or more, or
- A turnover of ₹1000 crore or more, or
- A net profit of ₹5 crore or more.
How Can an NGO Get CSR Funding?
To receive CSR funds, an NGO must meet certain criteria and follow a systematic process:
1. Ensure Legal Eligibility
- The NGO must be registered as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company.
- Must have valid 12A and 80G certificates (for tax exemption).
- If seeking CSR funds of ₹50 lakhs or more, filing Form CSR-1 on the MCA portal is mandatory.
2. Prepare a Strong Project Proposal
- A well-drafted proposal is crucial. It should include:
- Project goals
- Target beneficiaries
- Planned activities
- Timeline and budget
- Expected social impact
3. Keep Key Documents Ready
Some important documents to prepare:
- Registration certificate
- PAN card
- 12A and 80G certificates
- CSR-1 acknowledgement (if applicable)
- Annual reports and audit statements
- Photos, videos, and case studies
- Past impact reports
4. Reach Out to Companies
- Make a list of potential CSR donor companies.
- Contact their CSR departments with a proposal.
- Use email, presentations, and brochures to make your case.
- Attend CSR summits and networking events.
5. Register on CSR & NGO Portals
Being listed on reputed platforms helps companies find and verify NGOs. Register your NGO on:
What Should an NGO Do to Attract CSR?
- Work with transparency and accountability.
- Keep all reports and documentation up-to-date.
- Maintain a strong presence on your website and social media.
- Share real impact stories, photos, and testimonials.
- Build local connections with industries and companies in your area.
Conclusion:
Getting CSR funding takes effort, but with the right approach, clear documentation, and an impactful proposal, your NGO can secure support from companies. These funds can help you scale your mission and make a greater difference in society.
