MAKE YOUR CAREER MATTER FOR OTHERS

NEED helps students build impactful careers in evidence-based international development

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What We Do

The Network for Effective Evidence-Based Development (NEED) connects students across top U.S. universities with high-impact opportunities in international development. We provide a free “public good,” supported by SVCF and Greater Horizons grants recommended by Coefficient Giving.

NEED is student-run and got its start in 2025 amid U.S. federal cuts to international development programs. We believe in concepts like 'evidence use,' 'cost-effectiveness,' and 'counterfactual' thinking. The NGOs we work with reflect these principles from all across development's broad tent: economic growth, health, education, technology, climate, governance, social protection, and more. And as a young NGO ourselves, we are still experimenting to identify the most effective programming possible for the students we serve.

Pillar 1: Recruitment

We connect students with high-impact organizations through exclusive recruiting channels.

  • View NEED's internship board with exclusive opportunities
  • Participate in chats with hiring organizations
  • Join our frequently-updated WhatsApp group with open roles - link here

Pillar 2: Community & Learning

Join a network of ambitious students across U.S. universities.

Our Network

200+ members from top U.S. universities, including:

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Get Involved

Be a part of our community

For students

Are you a student interested in a career in international development? Sign up to join our community and receive regular updates about opportunities, programming, and events.

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Partner with us

For employers

Are you an organization looking to recruit talented students passionate about evidence-based development? Connect with our network of 200+ members across top U.S. universities.

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