Screening methodology

Ensuring the credibility and ethical standing of organizations (NGOs and charitable foundations) partnering with the IMAST platform is paramount to maintaining transparency and trust for our donors. To achieve this, we implement a rigorous legal and financial screening process for all potential collaborators involving a 3rd party collaborator (AskConsult).

Scope of screening

In the framework of the legal audit, the following are studied:

• Legal status of the organization;
• Compliance with relevant RA legislation;
• Transparency of organizational activities;
• Involvement in legal disputes and reputation assessment.

In the framework of the financial audit, the following are examined:

• Accounting and tax compliance;
• Financial sustainability and continuity;
• Funding sources and project history;
• Previously implemented projects.

The screening process involves three critical stages: (1) document collection and independent information gathering, (2) expert analysis of provided documents, (3) comprehensive feedback and decision-making.

Stage 1: Document collection and independent information gathering

In the first step, we request the required documents and independently gather publicly available information.
Required documents are:

• Organization registration certificate (excerpt from the state register)
• Founding documents
• Examples of management decisions
• Examples of employment contracts
• Statement of employees and service providers
• Donation collection methods (bank account, e-wallet, non-cash, etc.).
• Tax reports
• Audit report (if available)
• Financial statements
• Additional relevant documents as needed

Transition to Stage 2 only upon satisfactory document and information completeness.

Stage 2: Expert analysis of provided documents

In this stage our specialists meticulously review all gathered information, including financial statements, legal documents, and public references. This in-depth analysis focuses on assessing compliance with regulatory frameworks and adherence to ethical standards. Our research encompasses the organization's official online channels, publicly available information, dedicated platforms like Datalex.am, petekamutner.am, and azdarar.am, and comprehensive media coverage, ensuring a well-rounded assessment of their reputation, activity, and potential risks. Potential inconsistencies, discrepancies, or non-compliance issues are identified and categorized based on severity, informing a comprehensive risk assessment for each organization divided into low, moderate, and high-risk groups.

Stage 3: Comprehensive feedback and decision-making

Our thorough review culminates in a detailed report for each organization, outlining any concerns and assessing potential risks. This assessment guides our collaboration decisions. High-risk organizations are excluded from the IMAST platform to uphold ethical standards. Those posing medium risk receive guidance to address concerns and improve practices, with collaboration considered upon their response. Low-risk organizations typically proceed with collaboration, potentially receiving suggestions for further growth. We value transparency and welcome any questions about our process.

Building trust with you remains our top priority, ensuring we foster ethical and sustainable partnerships.