In a special January/February 2012 issue, The Global Journal released its inaugural Top 100 NGOs list – the first comprehensive ranking of organizations operating within the non-profit world. We are now proud to announce the launch of the second, 2013 edition. The only project of its kind, this exclusive feature reflects the increasing global influence of NGOs in all facets of modern life, in the process shining a light on a dynamic, innovative and inspiring sector estimated to encompass close to 10 million organizations.

For the purposes of the project, we defined NGOs as operational or advocacy focused non-profit organizations active at the local, national or international level. The 2013 list features NGOs from 27 countries and working across a range of sectors: from building a fleet of motorbikes and off-road ambulances to ensure the delivery of vital health care resources across Africa, to pioneering video as a popular tool for the protection of human rights.

Continuing to refine its evaluation methodology, The Global Journal considered a pool of approximately 450 NGOs this year based on three key criteria: impact, innovation and sustainability. An in-depth overview of the broader context in which the activities of NGOs are increasingly being evaluated, as well as specific information on our methodology for 2013, can be found in a specially commissioned discussion paper. In particular, the paper includes specific information on:

-  How The Global Journal defines an 'NGO' and the subsequent criteria for inclusion and exclusion.

-  The different challenges involved in evaluating operational NGOs versus advocacy NGOs.

-  The rationale behind The Global Journal's survey approach.

-  The benefits of evaluating entire organizations in addition to specific programs.

-  A detailed look at the sub-criteria used to assess impact, innovation and sustainability.  

To stay up to date with our ongoing NGO-themed coverage, visit The Global Journal's NGO Nexus.

To purchase a print or digital copy of the new Top 100 NGOs special issue, visit our webshop.