New Philanthropy Capital has changed the way it does business, after failing to make an impact with its original business model. Initially, the UK-based research organisation analysed individual charities to find those capable of reassuring donors their money would be spent wisely.

It failed to make a big enough impact because of the inability of charities to supply the right data and donors' reluctance to use the service. Its experience suggests UK prime minister David Cameron may struggle with his plan to devolve state authority to self-help groups which lack accountability.