Which charities will be most effective in ensuring your donation is put to good use? For the first time in the Netherlands, researchers applied scientific methods to pinpoint which charities achieve the most with the donations they receive. The University of Amsterdam and Stichting Doneer Effectief (Donate Effectively Foundation) unveiled the list on Friday, 8 December, during a sold out evening in Rotterdam. ‘We are talking about the Champions League of good causes,’ says professor of Philanthropy & Sustainable Investment Paul Smeets of the University of Amsterdam. The ranking reflects a growing interest in charities that make a scientifically demonstrable impact.
86% of Dutch households give money to at least one charity every year. December is the month par excellence for donating takes place. ‘We often choose who to give to based on emotions, but we are also seeing that people have a growing wish to give effectively, to ensure their donation achieves its maximum impact,’ says Bram Schaper, director of Stichting Doneer Effectief.
The University of Amsterdam and Stichting Doneer Effectief joined forces to pinpoint the most effective charities worldwide. ‘By doing this we can help donors give as impactfully as possible,’ Smeets explains. ‘A thoughtful donation can have a major positive impact,’ Schaper adds. 'The social challenges we now face, such as climate change and inequality, do not respect national borders. By producing this international selection, we are offering a unique service to donors who want to help solve major world problems.'
The winners: these charities achieve the most with your donations
- New Incentives (Poverty & Health): Provides cash with the condition that children be vaccinated and therefore focuses directly on reducing child mortality. The jury found strong evidence of increased vaccination rates, as well as improved community health and development benefits.
- InnerSpace (Climate): Unlocks geothermal energy worldwide, providing reliable, carbon-free heat and electricity, crucial for a more sustainable energy future.
- The Good Food Institute (Animal Welfare & Food Transition): Aims to bring animal-free and environmentally friendly products to the market. Stimulates the development of alternative proteins and supports research and startups.
Selection process
When making the selection, a jury of Dutch and Flemish academics, led by the University of Amsterdam, analysed reports from independent research institutions such as GiveWell, GivingGreen and Animal Charity Evaluators. These reports look at the proven effectiveness of an intervention, as well as its cost-effectiveness, financing and transparency. The jury then decided which should be the top recommendation per category.