International NGOs – make up the largest sub sector. Organisations range from large global NGOs (non-governmental organisations) with hundreds of staff, such as Save the Children, to small, locally based organisations with a handful of employees.
Development Consultancies – bid for work from government donor agencies such as DFID (Department for International Development) and international organisations such as the World Bank. There are a mix of specialist consultancies, such as IMC and Dalberg, and large management consultancies such as PwC.
International Organisations – include multilateral organisations such as UNICEF, UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) and development banks such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Foundations – include organisations such as the Clinton Foundation. These are philanthropic organisations which donate bursaries, fund projects and, in some cases, deliver support on the ground.
Government Aid Agencies – such as USAID, DFID and GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zesammenarbeit). Work is often policy based, with consulting firms frequently used to implement and deliver projects.
Social Enterprises – are typically small organisations run on private sector models but designed with a social purpose in mind.
Academia – many universities around the world teach and research international development. A PhD is required in most cases. The Development Studies Association is a useful resource.
Think Tanks – are small organisations involved in research and policy work. Entry is usually with a Master’s.