The Role of NGOs in Urban Development

Purpose – Non-profit organizations are dynamic actors in the contemporary society, contributing to the community development and general welfare. They are primarily credited of answering to social needs, but they could also contribute to economic, cultural, or behavioral transformations by cooperating with public bodies and other individuals and organizational actors. The paper investigates the perceived role of non-profit organizations in the development of communities and cities, having in mind a Quadruple Helix framework. Design/methodology/approach – We propose a two steps investigation of the relationships between nonprofit organizations and the actors of the Quadruple Helix. A succinct literature review aims to clarify the relationships between NGOs and public bodies, as well as the role NGOs have in urban development. The second stage consists in the analysis of two case studies from Romania, highlighting the mechanisms of interactions and the outcomes of NGOs involvement in urban development. Originality/value – This methodology puts in evidence the place of NGOs as active members of the Quadruple Helix in urban development. Practical implications – The paper highlights not the actual impact of non-profit organizations on urban development, facilitating the development of effective public policies involving these organizations, maximizing their potential impact in the social and economic fabric. The paper leads to better understanding of the knowledge transfer chain, especially connected to the relationship between NGOs and public bodies. At the policy-makers level, it offers a clearer understanding of the framework in which they operate, would help then involve local communities and NGOs.