Development NGOs now face a range of critical challenges. In a variety of contexts they are struggling to maintain their integrity and independence, while at the same time taking on a growing role in the fight against global poverty. David Lewis and Tina Wallace have assembled a wide-ranging, up-to-date study of this phenomenon, making it essential reading for NGO staff at all levels as well as students of development trends. This overview considers issues such as the search for greater relevance, improved accountability and better performance. Taking innovation as its theme, the first part of the book examines the evolution of alternative development thinking and ideas. The second section explores the current challenges NGOs face in trying to influence policy, while the final part looks at development practice itself. Written by a dynamic combination of key researchers and practitioners, this book argues that only through an engagement at both local and global levels, and through effective learning strategies, will development NGOs stand a chance of contributing to poverty reduction efforts at a sustained level that makes an impact.