•  
  •  
 

Keywords

Transparency, Trust, Nonprofit accountability, Partnerships, Data-driven governance, NGO transparency, Collaborative leadership

Abstract

This paper explores how transparency influences trust and strengthens partnerships within nonprofit and international development organizations. Drawing from a structured literature review of peer-reviewed articles, doctoral dissertations, and global initiatives such as the International Aid Transparency Initiative (IATI), this article highlights the critical role of transparent communication in building stakeholder confidence. The findings indicate that while many NGOs collect performance and financial data, few use it consistently to inform external reporting or internal learning. Trust is found to be highly context-specific, shaped not only by data sharing but also by leadership humility, community engagement, and ethical governance. The study identifies five major themes: the need for outcome-oriented transparency, the symbolic power of financial disclosure, the importance of localized trust-building, the role of internal data systems in scaling impact, and the consequences of reporting gaps. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations, including adopting structured reporting tools, engaging stakeholders in data use, aligning with global transparency standards, and cultivating inclusive leadership models (relational leadership, leadership humility, and inclusive governance). These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how transparency, when practiced with integrity and intent, can serve as a foundation for more resilient, equitable partnerships in the global nonprofit sector.

Download

Share

COinS