How Bono Chooses Nonprofits for Each Cause

At Bono, selecting the right nonprofit organizations (NPOs) for each cause is critical to maximizing impact. When users select a cause on Bono, they are presented with a list of three NPOs. Each of these organizations approaches the problem from a unique angle and typically varies in size, ensuring a comprehensive impact across the spectrum of the issue. Here’s an inside look at the sophisticated, dual-method approach Bono uses to curate this selection.

1. BonoLab: The Heart of Our Selection Process

At the core of our NPO selection is the "BonoLab," Bono's own internal impact team which is comprised of professionals who specialize in evaluating the effectiveness and potential impact of nonprofit organizations. The BonoLab is constantly on the lookout for new and effective NPOs. Their methodical approach ensures that only the most credible and impactful organizations are chosen.

Selection Criteria Employed by BonoLab:

• Registration and Compliance: All NPOs must be registered in the United States, ensuring they meet specific legal and operational standards.
• ‍Reputation and Vetting: NPOs must have a rating  above 8.5 on vetting sites such as Charity Navigator and GuideStar. These ratings reflect the organizations' transparency, financial health, and accountability.‍
• Expert and Media Endorsements: Recognitions from experts in relevant fields or mentions in the media serve as endorsements of the NPOs' efficacy and reputation.‍
• Social Media Engagement: A strong social media presence is crucial as it indicates the organization's commitment to communication and transparency.‍
• System Change Categories: BonoLab also evaluates how these organizations fit into broader system change categories, assessing their potential to effect substantial, long-term changes.

2. Collaboration with Third-Party Experts

In addition to the in-house BonoLab, Bono collaborates with external experts to refine their NPO lists. This group includes:

• Social Impact Specialists: Professionals who understand the nuances of social impact and can gauge the effectiveness of NPOs in making real-world changes.‍
• Reporters and Curators: Individuals who have specialized knowledge of the nonprofit sector and can provide insights into which organizations are truly making a difference.‍
• Brands: Companies that align with specific causes and have a stake in supporting effective NPOs, providing a unique perspective on which organizations align best with corporate social responsibility goals.

These third-party professionals help ensure that the NPOs selected are not only effective but also respected and recognized by a broad array of stakeholders in the field of social good. This collaboration enriches the selection process, bringing in diverse perspectives and expertise that enhance the quality of Bono’s offerings.

By combining the rigorous internal analysis of BonoLab with the external insights of respected specialists, Bono ensures that each cause is supported by a balanced mix of NPOs. This dual approach allows Bono to present its users with a selection of nonprofits that are not only impactful but also represent a holistic approach to tackling each issue, maximizing both the scope and the depth of the change they help bring about.