CSR Partnership with NGOs in India: A Guide for Companies

India has a legal framework for corporate social responsibility. Choosing the right NGO partner is one of the most important steps.

The basics

Under Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013, certain companies (based on net worth, turnover or net profit thresholds) must spend 2% of their average net profit of the previous three years on CSR. Eligible activities are listed in Schedule VII and include education, health, skill development, women's empowerment and environmental sustainability.

Why partner with an NGO?

• Local knowledge and community trust

• Delivery capacity on the ground

• Program expertise

• Reporting and monitoring support

What to check in an NGO

1. CSR-1 registration with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, required for implementing agencies.

2. 12A and 80G registration.

3. Track record and references.

4. Financial transparency.

5. Capacity to deliver the project.

6. Alignment with your CSR policy.

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Steps to partner

1. Define your focus area and budget.

2. Shortlist NGOs and review their documents.

3. Discuss a project plan with goals and timelines.

4. Sign an agreement.

5. Release funds in stages.

6. Monitor, visit sites and review reports.

7. Report impact, as required.

Project ideas

• Free education and learning resources for children

• Skill training and placement support

• Medical camps and health awareness

• Women's livelihood programs

• Tree plantation and environmental awareness

Work with The Phoenix Foundation

We hold CSR-1 certification, along with 80G and 12A, and we have worked with corporate volunteers and partners including IIFL Samasta, Aster Volunteers and Ashok Leyland. Our areas include education, healthcare, skill development, women empowerment and environment. Visit our CSR partner page or contact us to discuss a project.

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Frequently asked questions

Can any NGO receive CSR funds? Implementing agencies generally need the required registrations. Check the latest rules.

How do we measure impact? Agree on indicators such as people trained, children supported and camps conducted, and review reports regularly.

Can employees volunteer? Yes. Employee volunteering is a good way to engage teams.