Engaging with research for real impact: The state of research in the INGO sector and ways forward for better practice

Research is more important than ever to international non-governmental organisations (INGOs), who need evidence to plan their work and provide proof of their impact. INGOs are increasingly turning to research as a resource for assessing and improving their activities as well as organisational structures and strategy. This engagement with research can take many forms from adapting, synthesising and using existing research to commissioning new research, participating in research collaborations or conducting their own research in house. Some INGOs are even participating in research governance, working with research funders to support agenda-setting and evaluation. This report supports organisations to thoroughly consider their options for engaging with evidence and develop more strategic approaches to using, generating and communicating research. By showcasing a range of innovative examples of practice and exploring the many challenges involved in this complex work, this report provides guidance to those developing a research approach within their organisation. The report draws on the findings from a three-year research study on the different ways in which UK-based INGOs are engaging with research and the common challenges involved. Funded by the Leverhulme Trust, the study also identified sector-wide support structures which can help INGOs address these challenges.