Streamlining Due Diligence through HQAI CHS Certification

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Reducing Duplication in Due Diligence through HQAI CHS Certification

A new case study documents an innovative collaboration with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC). This joint initiative explores the use of HQAI certification against the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS) as a way to simplify due diligence processes between funders and their partners. The case study highlights how third-party CHS audits can effectively meet funders’ requirements, while saving time, effort, and costs for both, the assessed party and assessor.

From shadowing a full HQAI CHS audit to integrating its findings into FCDO’s due diligence system, this collaboration laid the foundation for a more efficient, trust-based process. The benefits were tangible: NRC saved time and resources, FCDO gained confidence in HQAI's independent, rigorous audit framework, and all partners valued the agile efficient approach.

This case study demonstrates how a shared commitment to quality and accountability can lead to practical solutions in overcoming long-standing challenges in the humanitarian and development sector.

The full document is now available for download here. This case study serves as a call to other actors to consider HQAI CHS certification as a practical tool to reduce duplication whilst rigorously upholding accountability commitments.