10 Best HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits in 2026

Are you struggling to manage your NGO or nonprofit’s workforce efficiently with limited resources? Managing human resources in NGOs and nonprofits can be challenging due to tight budgets, a mix of paid staff and volunteers, and the need for accountability. Inadequate HR tools often divert your attention from your core mission of serving the community and make day-to-day operations cumbersome. Choosing the Best HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits can help streamline HR processes, improve communication, and save valuable time.

Selecting the right Best HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits can automate payroll, employee management, volunteer coordination, and reporting while reducing errors. In this article, we explore the 10 Best HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits in 2026 that can empower your organization to operate more efficiently and focus on delivering its mission.

What is HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits?

HR software for NGOs and nonprofits is a digital solution designed to help organizations manage human resources tasks efficiently. The Best HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits allows managers to oversee employees and volunteers, handle payroll, track attendance, manage leave requests, and maintain staff records all in one system.

For NGOs and nonprofits with limited resources, the right Best HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits ensures administrative tasks are streamlined, freeing up time to focus on social missions and community impact. It centralizes data, reduces paperwork, improves accuracy, and ensures compliance with labor laws and organizational policies. By automating routine HR processes, these tools allow organizations to optimize their workforce and maintain smooth operations even with constrained budgets.

How Does HR Software Work for NGOs and Nonprofits?

The Best HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits works by consolidating all HR information—employee and volunteer data, payroll details, attendance, and leave requests—into a single platform. Any updates in the system are reflected in real time, ensuring accurate information is available for decision-making.

Employees and volunteers can access their profiles to view schedules, submit leave requests, or check payment and benefits information. Managers can track performance, approve requests, generate reports, and communicate with the team efficiently. With the Best HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits, NGOs and nonprofits can eliminate redundant manual work, reduce errors, and improve overall workforce management, allowing staff to focus on their organizational goals.

Benefits of HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits

Implementing the Best HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits offers numerous advantages for managing both employees and volunteers effectively:

• Efficient Workforce Management: Streamlines tracking of attendance, leave, and volunteer hours.
• Faster Approvals: Managers can quickly approve leave, payroll, or other HR requests.
• Improved Staff and Volunteer Experience: Staff and volunteers have easy access to schedules, records, and HR updates.
• Accurate Reporting: Generates data-driven reports for board members, donors, and regulatory agencies.
• Enhanced Communication: Facilitates better coordination between HR teams, employees, and volunteers.
• Reduced Administrative Burden: Automates repetitive HR tasks, saving time for small teams.
• Supports Organizational Goals: Frees up HR staff to focus on strategy and mission-oriented activities.
• Data Accuracy and Compliance: Maintains secure and organized HR records while ensuring adherence to policies.

Using the Best HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits helps organizations optimize HR operations, retain top talent, and manage limited resources effectively while focusing on their mission and community impact.

Best HR Software for NGOs and Nonprofits in 2026

1) ClickUp

Overview

Managing human resources in NGOs and nonprofit organizations can be challenging due to limited budgets and resources. ClickUp is a versatile platform that allows HR teams to streamline tasks, track employee performance, and organize projects efficiently. Its intuitive interface makes it accessible to all staff, regardless of technical skill. NGOs and nonprofits can benefit from automated workflows, customizable templates, and centralized HR documentation. ClickUp also simplifies volunteer management, onboarding, and resource allocation. Overall, it enhances productivity and reduces administrative overhead.

Key Features

• Automation of HR tasks and notifications
• Customizable dashboards for performance and project tracking
• Employee and volunteer onboarding templates
• Docs and wikis with nested pages and permissions
• Free integrations with 1000+ tools including Slack, GitLab, and Loom

Pros

• Highly customizable and flexible
• Centralized HR documentation and employee data
• Strong automation capabilities
• Free version available for small teams
• Excellent performance tracking features

Cons

• Notification overload if not configured properly
• Learning curve for full customization
• Some advanced HR templates require setup
• Limited built-in payroll functionality
• Requires time to fully integrate for large organizations

Pricing

• Free Forever
• Unlimited: $7/month per user
• Business: $12/month per user
• Enterprise: Contact for pricing
• ClickUp Brain Add-on: $5/month per member

Ratings & Reviews:

• G2: 4.7/5 (9,510+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.6/5 (4,107+ reviews)

2) Zoho People

Overview

Zoho People is a cloud-based HR software designed to automate HR workflows for NGOs and nonprofit organizations. It provides a full spectrum of services from onboarding to performance assessments. Time-tracking, leave management, and learning management features help organizations manage employees and volunteers efficiently. Its scalability ensures it can adapt as nonprofits grow or take on additional programs. Zoho People also supports customized appraisal cycles and reporting. The platform is ideal for NGOs seeking integrated HR and volunteer management in one system.

Key Features

• Biometric device integration for attendance
• Geo-fencing and IP restrictions for secure clock-ins
• Integrated Learning Management System (LMS)
• Customizable appraisal and review cycles
• Automated workflow and task management

Pros

• Full HR process automation
• Scalable for growing NGOs
• Strong attendance and time-tracking tools
• Learning and development modules included
• Robust reporting and analytics

Cons

• Complex interface for new users
• Requires comprehensive training
• Feature-rich, which can overwhelm small teams
• Some customization options are technical
• Limited pre-built NGO-specific templates

Pricing

• Standard: $9.6/user/month (billed annually)
• Professional: $16.79/user/month
• Enterprise: $28.79/user/month
• Ultimate: $31.19/user/month

Ratings & Reviews

• G2: 4.4/5 (325+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.4/5 (250+ reviews)

3) Rippling

Overview

Rippling is ideal for NGOs and nonprofits that want to centralize HR, IT, and operations in one platform. It integrates employee and volunteer data across departments, reducing administrative work and errors. Rippling automates onboarding, payroll, and IT management, ensuring that HR teams can focus on strategic initiatives. Its centralized database allows seamless access to employee records, benefits, and compliance documentation. NGOs benefit from increased efficiency and better resource allocation. The software is suitable for both local and global nonprofit operations.

Key Features

• Single sign-on (SSO) for access management
• Automated device setup and decommissioning
• Integration with 500+ business apps
• Payroll and benefits administration
• Centralized employee and volunteer records

Pros

• Reduces administrative overhead
• Centralized HR and IT management
• Streamlined payroll and benefits
• Scalable for growing organizations
• Supports both employees and volunteers

Cons

• User interface not very intuitive
• Customer support can be below average
• Limited NGO-specific templates
• May require time to fully implement
• Learning curve for complex integrations

Pricing

• $8/month per user
• Custom enterprise pricing

Ratings & Reviews

• G2: 5/5 (2,335+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.9/5 (3,045+ reviews)

4) Gusto

Overview

Gusto is a reliable HR platform for small- to medium-sized NGOs and nonprofits, primarily focused on payroll and compliance management. It automates tax calculations, filings, and payroll distribution, reducing administrative burden. NGOs can also use Gusto for employee onboarding, benefits management, and attendance tracking. While it is less comprehensive in broader HR functions, it excels in payroll accuracy and financial compliance. Its user-friendly interface ensures smooth adoption even for non-technical HR staff. This makes Gusto a solid choice for organizations prioritizing payroll automation.

Key Features

• Multiple payroll methods including direct deposit
• Automated tax filings and compliance alerts
• Employee benefits management tools
• Attendance and time-off tracking
• Employee financial wellness programs

Pros

• Simplifies payroll and tax management
• User-friendly interface
• Automates repetitive HR tasks
• Supports small to medium-sized organizations
• Compliance alerts ensure accuracy

Cons

• Primarily focused on U.S.-based organizations
• Limited non-payroll HR features
• Less suitable for large NGOs
• No global workforce management
• Basic reporting compared to competitors

Pricing

• Simple: $40/month
• Plus: $60/month
• Premium: Custom pricing

Ratings & Reviews

• G2: 4.5/5 (2,000+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.6/5 (3,880+ reviews)

5) HR Partner

Overview

HR Partner is a cloud-based HR solution designed for NGOs and nonprofits that need a simple, easy-to-use platform. It helps streamline employee and volunteer management, including leave tracking, documentation, and onboarding processes. HR Partner also centralizes data storage and allows e-signatures for contracts and forms. This tool is ideal for smaller organizations that want to reduce administrative work without investing in complex HR systems. While it may lack advanced analytics, HR Partner provides core HR functionalities efficiently. It’s a reliable option for nonprofits aiming for streamlined operations with minimal setup.

Key Features

• Job postings and applicant tracking
• Onboarding checklists for consistency
• Performance review management
• Secure storage for policies and handbooks
• Centralized employee and volunteer data

Pros

• Simple and easy to use
• Cloud-based and accessible remotely
• Efficient onboarding and documentation
• Affordable for smaller organizations
• Centralized employee data

Cons

• No mobile app available
• Lacks integrated payroll system
• Limited reporting features
• Not suitable for very large NGOs
• Fewer customization options

Pricing

• Core: $52/month
• Premium: $65/month
• VIP: $94/month

Ratings & Reviews

• G2: 4.6/5 (30+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.8/5 (90+ reviews)

6) BambooHR

Overview

BambooHR is a data-driven HR platform designed for small- to medium-sized NGOs and nonprofits. It provides pre-built reports, HR analytics, and dashboards to support informed decision-making. Its features include employee experience tracking, performance management, and inclusive HR practices. BambooHR simplifies onboarding, leave tracking, and time-off management. With mobile access, HR teams can manage tasks on the go. It’s an excellent choice for organizations looking to leverage data and analytics for better workforce management while maintaining simplicity.

Key Features

• Performance management with customizable cycles
• Mobile access for on-the-go HR management
• Time-off tracking and leave approvals
• Automated onboarding for new employees
• Centralized employee records and documents

Pros

• Comprehensive HR analytics and reporting
• Supports inclusive HR practices
• Mobile-friendly interface
• Automates routine HR tasks
• Customizable employee management tools

Cons

• Limited integrations for custom fields
• Price increase with minimal new features
• Less suitable for very large NGOs
• Some advanced features require setup
• Lacks robust volunteer management tools

Pricing

• Core: Custom pricing
• Pro: Custom pricing

Ratings & Reviews

• G2: 4.4/5 (2,140+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.6/5 (2,815+ reviews)

7) BreezyHR

Overview

BreezyHR is an applicant tracking and recruitment platform for NGOs and nonprofits focused on expanding their workforce efficiently. It streamlines the hiring process, allowing organizations to advertise jobs, screen candidates, and manage interview scheduling. Its visual pipeline and automated workflows help HR teams track applicants from initial application to onboarding. BreezyHR enhances recruitment while ensuring a smooth candidate experience. This tool is particularly valuable for organizations looking to simplify hiring without investing in full-scale HR systems.

Key Features

• Automated interview scheduling
• Candidate screening and scoring
• Job board and social media integration
• Visual pipeline management
• Collaboration tools for HR teams

Pros

• Simplifies recruitment process
• Improves candidate experience
• Supports collaboration across HR staff
• Automated workflows save time
• Integrates with multiple job boards

Cons

• Limited integration with some HR systems
• Cannot open multiple resumes simultaneously
• Lacks advanced HR analytics
• Best for recruitment, not full HR suite
• Some features require paid plans

Pricing

• Bootstrap: Free
• Startup: $189/month
• Growth: $329/month
• Business: $529/month

Ratings & Reviews

• G2: 4.4/5 (630+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.5/5 (1,405+ reviews)

8) ADP Workforce

Overview

ADP Workforce is a comprehensive HR software that supports nonprofits with payroll, time-tracking, and workforce management. Its features include error detection, payroll analytics, performance review tracking, and detailed reporting. NGOs can manage employee hours accurately and ensure compliance with labor regulations. The platform also includes talent acquisition and onboarding capabilities. ADP Workforce is ideal for organizations needing robust payroll and HR tools combined with workforce insights to drive efficiency.

Key Features

• Payroll with tax compliance
• Accurate time-tracking and scheduling
• Employee self-service portals
• Mobile access for HR management
• Talent acquisition and onboarding tools

Pros

• Robust payroll and compliance tools
• Accurate time-tracking and reporting
• Mobile and self-service features
• Supports large NGOs efficiently
• End-to-end HR functionality

Cons

• Customer service can be slow
• Interface may lag at times
• Occasional errors in reporting
• Updates can cause poor communication
• Learning curve for small teams

Pricing

• Custom pricing

Ratings & Reviews

• G2: 4.4/5 (6,435+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.1/5 (3,395+ reviews)

9) Workday

Overview

Workday provides a robust HR and human capital management system suitable for large NGOs and nonprofit organizations. It offers payroll, HR finance management, talent acquisition, advanced analytics, and employee feedback tools. Workday supports global workforce management and flexible organizational structures. It empowers HR teams to manage complex operations efficiently and ensure data-driven decision-making. While best suited for larger nonprofits, its comprehensive suite of tools allows for long-term scalability and strategic HR management.

Key Features

• Real-time analytics and forecasting
• Employee and manager self-service
• Compensation and benefits management
• Talent acquisition and workforce planning
• Secure data and compliance management

Pros

• Scalable for large NGOs
• Comprehensive HR and payroll management
• Advanced analytics and insights
• Global workforce management
• Supports strategic HR initiatives

Cons

• Navigation can be confusing
• Not very intuitive for new users
• Higher cost for small NGOs
• Implementation can be complex
• Limited pre-built nonprofit-specific templates

Pricing

• 30-day free trial
• Custom pricing

Ratings & Reviews

• G2: 4/5 (1,520+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.4/5 (1,360+ reviews)

10) Deel

Overview

Deel is designed for nonprofits managing global employees or contractors. It provides multi-currency payroll, compliance with local employment laws, and automated contractor payments. NGOs with international operations can manage contracts and payments efficiently across 150+ countries. Deel ensures accurate payroll while reducing administrative complexity for global teams. Though ideal for international work, it may be less relevant for organizations with purely domestic operations. Its user-friendly platform simplifies cross-border HR management.

Key Features

• Customizable contracts for local compliance
• 24/7 global support
• Automated currency conversions for payments
• Streamlined contractor and EOR management
• Centralized workforce compliance management

Pros

• Excellent for international workforce management
• Reduces administrative burden for global payroll
• Ensures local compliance
• Supports contractors and full-time employees
• 24/7 customer support

Cons

• Limited accessibility for some features in Europe
• Best for international, not domestic-only NGOs
• Pricing can be high for small teams
• Some features restricted by country
• Fewer built-in HR analytics

Pricing

• Free
• Engage: $20/employee/month
• US Payroll: $19/employee/month
• Payroll: $29/employee/month
• US PEO: $79/employee/month
• Contractor management: $49/month
• EOR: $599/month

Ratings & Reviews

• G2: 4.8/5 (3,280+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.7/5 (535+ reviews)

Conclusion

Choosing the right HR software for NGOs and nonprofits is essential to manage employees, volunteers, and administrative tasks efficiently. The right solution helps streamline HR processes, reduce errors, and save valuable time for organizations with limited resources.

By automating payroll, leave management, and reporting, NGOs can focus more on their core mission and community impact. HR software also ensures better communication, accurate data tracking, and improved staff and volunteer satisfaction. Investing in a suitable HR system empowers nonprofits to operate effectively while scaling their impact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between HR software for NGOs and regular HR software?

HR software for NGOs and nonprofits is designed to handle both employees and volunteers, track grant and funding allocations, and accommodate tight budgets. Regular HR software is often focused solely on paid employees and may lack volunteer management and donor-related features.

Can small NGOs benefit from HR software?

Yes, even small NGOs can benefit as HR software reduces manual work, organizes employee and volunteer information, and ensures compliance. It saves time for small teams to focus on mission-critical activities.

How do HR tools help with volunteer management?

HR software helps track volunteer hours, manage schedules, and store contact information in a centralized system. This ensures that organizations can efficiently coordinate volunteers and measure their contributions.

Is HR software expensive for nonprofits?

Many HR tools offer affordable pricing tiers or nonprofit discounts, making them accessible for organizations with limited budgets. Choosing software with transparent pricing helps avoid unexpected costs.

Can HR software generate reports for donors and boards?

Yes, most nonprofit HR systems allow custom report generation. This enables NGOs to provide detailed workforce, payroll, and volunteer data to board members, donors, and other stakeholders.