Socio-economic determinants of NGO sector activities and their impact on the regional economy with a special emphasis on the aspect of inclusive project management

Abstract

PURPOSE: The article aims to systematize knowledge on the principles of financing microprojects implemented by the NGO sector targeting end recipients residing in municipalities with up to 100,000 inhabitants in the Republic of Poland, using the example of the "Fajna Ferajna" program. This was achieved through a literature review and analysis of the regulations published by the program's organizer. The discussion and conclusions elaborate on the topic of financing non-governmental organizations, with a particular focus on foundations and associations, from the perspective of their role in strategies for building and strengthening local communities and supporting the development of the regional economy, with a special emphasis on supporting people with disabilities and organizations employing them.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: To achieve the specified objective, the following research question was formulated: What are the reasons for which the phenomenon of implementing social initiatives at the local level is essential for economic development in regions with up to 100,000 inhabitants? The structure of the article corresponds to the set goals. The introduction describes the origin, research problem, and basic definitions related to the phenomenon of local social initiatives, including micro-projects. To achieve the specified objective, a critical analysis of relevant literature was employed, along with an observational method supported by argumentation that bolstered generalized theses. Additionally, methods of induction and deduction, comparisons and generalizations, as well as synthesis, were utilized. Subsequently, in-depth research was conducted using the Delphi method, which is a tool for structuring group communication processes.

FINDINGS: The deliberations led to the identification of key challenges associated with the implementation of micro-projects targeting individuals with disabilities in small regions.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The issues presented in the article underscore the necessity for NGOs implementing projects for individuals with disabilities to conduct the recruitment process with particular attention.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This article presents the outcomes of original desk research. The topic addressed had not previously been discussed in international forums.