Nonprofit Organizations and the Sharing Economy: An Exploratory Study of the Umbrella Organizations

This chapter focuses on the way knowledge management could facilitate the inclusion of the nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in the sharing economy. It explores to which extent the NGOs are part of the new sharing economy trend, by investigating how the representatives of the NGO sector relate to the sharing economy in the framework of the umbrella organizations. Thus, our analysis connects sharing economy to knowledge management, having in mind the implications for both the umbrella organizations and the member NGOs. In this front, NGOs are knowledge intensive organizations. Knowledge and networking are at the center of the activity of any NGO. They create value through networking and sharing, therefore they match the model of the sharing economy. They are connected with the main elements associated with the sharing economy: collaboration, social networking, sustainability, ecology, community, etc. By adopting a sharing economy approach, the NGOs could be more efficient, connect better with their beneficiaries and prepare better for the challenges of the new society and economy. An insight revealed by the research is that the NGOs connected in the sharing economy tend to be more business-oriented and effective. These NGOs are concerned with ensuring the sustainability of their activity. If this process leads to a less connected and social organization, it is to be seen in the future.