Although ADB does not have a fund dedicated to supporting civil society initiatives, or to which nongovernment organizations (NGOs) can directly apply and receive funding unlike other international development actors, CSOs are involved in a very high proportion of ADB projects, usually at the design phase, and typically through consultations.

While most are small local organizations, larger NGOs are involved in and implementing ADB-financed projects in some countries and sectors. There is growing interest among international NGOs with strong capacities to bid for and win contracts on ADB-financed projects. ADB treats NGOs who win contracts to implement ADB projects the same as firms, as service providers under a contractual relationship with standard conditions for compliance.

Civil society can reach out to the ADB in 4 ways: through the NGO Anchor, during Country Partnership Strategy preparations, at the ADB Business Opportunity Fairs and when ADB policies and strategies are under review.