My Industry Sector: Survey of 361 NPOs reveal insights
A survey of 361 Western Cape non-profit organisations revealed they have a collective total annual income of R1.49 billion, underscoring the NPO sector's substantial contribution to the regional economy.
In addition, the surveyed NPOs employ 21 398 people in various capacities.
These are just two significant statistics contained in a comprehensive research report into the economic impact of NPOS, sponsored by the Cape Chamber and due to be officially released next month. The report, based on a study by the Henley Business School South Africa, identifies non-profit organisations (NPOs) as critical drivers of socio-economic development rather than merely charitable entities.
By way of example, 250 of the surveyed NPOs provide skills development training to 687 697 people, in areas ranging from finance skills and leadership, to life skills and sports training.
The report coincides with the launch of the Cape Chamber’s new NPO portfolio, a move aimed at incorporating the sector’s community development work into the Chamber’s network. The portfolio was formally launched last week in Century City.
“NPOs are not charities - we are critical partners in business,” said Chamber NPO portfolio chairperson Dee Moskoff at the launch function. “There is a growing emphasis on environmental and social impacts of businesses, especially cos business success is linked to the success or failure of the communities in which they operate. In this context, collaboration bet businesses and NPOs has become increasingly important.”
She said mutual training initiatives represent another area of significant opportunity, as did support with crisis interventions in education, healthcare, and social services. “For instance, business can assist NPOs in strengthening their internal capabilities or offer professional services they lack in-house,” Moskoff said.
The launch event featured several high-profile panellists in a discussion about NPO impacts.
Clara Kwizera from Izinga Assist, said a critical function of NPOs is to help mitigate risk within a country, the economy, and the society at large. “We’re all in trouble if our NPO sector doesn't succeed,” Kwizera said.
Izinga Assist is a verification platform for NPOs and one of four organisations involved in verifying NPOs due to form part of the Chamber’s new portfolio.