Centre for Good Governance

Enabling stronger governance through leadership support, research and contextual understanding

Strong governance and accountability are critical to the success, credibility, and long-term sustainability of Social Purpose Organisations (SPOs). Yet across the development sector, systemic opportunities exist:

A 2023 ISDM study of 116 SPOs found 43% rated their boards as only somewhat effective, and 23% as ineffective.
36% of board appointments were relationship-driven, offering the scope for greater diversity and independent oversight.
Less than 20% of NGO boards in India have optimal gender diversity (Dasra, 2022).
57% of SPOs struggle with understanding compliance requirements, and over 70% lack the resources needed for effective compliance (ISDM-NAVGRAAM study, 2024).

Filling the Gap in Leadership and Management

Fragmented oversight, leadership vacuums beyond founders, limited succession planning, and gender disparities continue to negatively affect organisational resilience.

The Centre learns continuously from SPOs and sector leaders, using a systemic approach to support the sector. Through leadership development, research, training programs, and workshops, it helps SPOs embed governance as a strategic enabler — not merely a compliance requirement — to drive accountability, gender equity, and lasting impact.

Our Approach

Board Engagement and Leadership Development

Building the governance capacity of Social Purpose Organisations (SPOs) by enabling them to create, nurture, and effectively engage their Boards —both legal and advisory and team members—through a mix of cohort-based programmes, workshops, tutorials, roundtable discussions, and virtual knowledge-sharing sessions.

Research and Narrative Building

Leading continuous research and knowledge dissemination on critical topics (e.g., role of the Chair, diversity, founder’s syndrome, succession planning), and insights that inform actionable strategies for governance accountability and effectiveness. Publishing an annual flagship report on key aspects such as board behaviour, composition, dynamics, and their impact on sector credibility.

Culture Shift and Governance Mindset

Integrating governance into strategic planning, building governance literacy across leadership, and fostering transparency and accountability at all levels. Promoting diversity in board roles—particularly gender and expertise—ensuring richer decision-making. Tools like ISDM’s Compliance Excellence Accountability Framework help track progress, while peer learning forums offer continuous improvement.

Alumni Engagement

Actively collaborating with alumni of cohort-based programs to foster sustained and meaningful engagement with the development sector. Through thoughtfully designed/ curated events, initiatives, and opportunities, we ensure that alumni remain connected and contribute to the sector in a structured, impactful, and ongoing manner.