Stephen Bubb, chief executive of Acevo, said the launch marked a historic moment for the third sector in Europe. “For the first time, we have a dedicated network of third sector leaders, all of whom are committed to a common goal; greater effectiveness, innovation, and pan-European collaboration,” he said. “This unique body will help drive up civil renewal and engage citizens across the continent through a more professional third sector.”

Euclid has 120 founding members from 25 countries across Europe. It is initially to be hosted by Acevo, but aims to gain full independence by the end of 2007. It is hoped the group will improve information sharing across the continent.

UK minister for the third sector Ed Miliband congratulated the group. “You have created an important new forum to support third sector leaders. Every day, for different causes and in different countries, the third sector shows the power of working together. By connecting diverse groups across Europe, to share lessons and find common cause, Euclid embodies this insight and I wish it every success,” he said.

David Nussbaum, chief executive of the German organisation Transparency International, said: “The challenges facing Europe are multiple and complex. In meeting them, the third sector – as well as government and the private sector – must play its crucial role, and this calls for outstanding professional leadership. Euclid is therefore a welcome initiative to stimulate and develop the kind of leadership that will be required in the 21st century.”

Banking group Intesa Sanpaolo will be the main partner of the initiative. Valter Serrentino, head of CSR at the bank, said: “Financial institutions can play a relevant role, not only ensuring access to capital but also to resources, knowledge and capacity building to support growth of civil society.”