Overcoming Challenges to Building Learning Organizations in the Non-Profit Sector
Author: Dr. Anna Neya Kazanskaia
Publisher: NEYA Global Publishing
Article | NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies
Year: 2025
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5669-1676
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-bld-lrn-org-10
This material forms part of the NEYA Global knowledge architecture. Institutional, organizational, professional, training, consulting, curriculum, program design, or implementation use requires an active license from NEYA Global
Explore Architecture →
Module Overview →
Request Institutional Access →
About the Article
Building learning organizations is vital for non-profits striving for resilience, adaptability, and sustainability in resource-constrained contexts. Yet, the process is often hindered by barriers such as limited resources, stakeholder disengagement, and resistance to change. This article analyzes strategies for overcoming these challenges by securing board, staff, donor, and community support; optimizing scarce resources through partnerships, digital tools, and volunteer expertise; and fostering flexibility and adaptability within organizational culture. Case studies from Africa, Asia, and Latin America highlight practical solutions, from peer learning in Kenya to digital training in the Philippines and coaching for staff transitions in Nigeria. By linking theory with practice, the article offers both academic insights and actionable strategies for practitioners seeking to embed continuous learning as a driver of resilience and long-term mission impact.
Key Topics
- Barriers to building learning organizations in non-profits
- Stakeholder engagement and transparent communication
- Creative resource optimization in low-resource settings
- Role of digital tools, partnerships, and volunteer expertise
- Cultivating adaptability and change management
- Embedding continuous learning in organizational culture
Suggested Citation
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Overcoming Challenges to Building Learning Organizations in the Non-Profit Sector. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-bld-lrn-org-10
References
| Garvin, D. A. (1993). Building a learning organization. Harvard Business Review, 71(4), 78-91. | ||||
| Jones, G. R. (2013). Organizational theory, design, and change (7th ed.). Pearson. | ||||
| Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Building Learning Organization. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/building-learning-organization-2025 | ||||
| Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Capacity Building in Developing Countries. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/capacity-building-in-developing-countries-2025 | ||||
| Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Ethical Consulting for Purpose-Driven Success. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/ethical-consulting-2025 | ||||
| Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Program Development and Evaluation: Maximizing Impact. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/program-development-evaluation-2025 | ||||
| Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Overcoming Challenges to Building Learning Organizations in the Non-Profit Sector. NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-bld-lrn-org-10 | ||||
| Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Fostering a Culture of Continuous Improvement in Non-Profit Organizations. NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-bld-lrn-org-06 | ||||
| Kotter, J. P. (1996). Leading change. Harvard Business Review Press. | ||||
| Senge, P. M. (1990). The Fifth Discipline: The art and practice of the learning organization. Doubleday. | ||||
| Watkins, K. E., & Marsick, V. J. (1993). Sculpting the learning organization: Lessons in the art and science of systemic change. Jossey-Bass. | ||||
| World Bank. (2015). Capacity development results framework: A strategic and results-oriented approach to learning for capacity development. Washington, DC: World Bank. | ||||