GiveDirectly

GiveDirectly is a nonprofit organization that delivers unconditional cash transfers directly to people living in poverty, primarily in low-income countries. Its core belief is that people in poverty deserve the dignity of choice and are the best judges of their own needs.

Overview

• Founded: 2009

• Founders: Paul Niehaus, Michael Faye, Rohit Wanchoo, and Jeremy Shapiro

• Headquarters: New York City, USA

• Website: https://www.givedirectly.org

Key Features

1. Unconditional Cash Transfers

GiveDirectly provides cash with no strings attached, allowing recipients to choose how to spend the money — whether on food, health care, education, housing, or starting a business.

2. Data-Driven and Transparent

• Uses rigorous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate impact.

• Partners with academics and publishes results to ensure accountability and transparency.

• Recognized for its low overhead and efficiency.

3. Target Countries

GiveDirectly has operated in several countries, including:

• Kenya

• Uganda

• Rwanda

• Liberia

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Malawi

• Mozambique

• Has also launched cash assistance programs in the U.S. during crises (e.g., COVID-19 relief).

4. Innovative Programs

• Basic Income Experiment: A long-term pilot in Kenya testing the effects of universal basic income.

• Crisis Response: Emergency cash for disaster or conflict zones (e.g., after hurricanes, during COVID-19, and in refugee settings).

• Digital Identification: Using satellite data and mobile money for remote and scalable aid distribution.

Recognition

• Endorsed by GiveWell, The Life You Can Save, and Founders Pledge as one of the most effective charities.

• Supported by major philanthropists, including MacKenzie Scott and Google.org.

• Praised for pushing the aid sector toward evidence-based, direct giving models.

Criticisms & Challenges

• Sustainability: Some critics question whether cash transfers lead to long-term economic improvement or only short-term relief.

• Security risks: In some areas, receiving large sums of money may expose recipients to theft or fraud.

• Economic impact: There’s debate on whether large-scale cash transfers could distort local markets or inflation.