The article analyzes the work of private organization in the field of rural development in Ecuador, attempting at identifying replicable experiences. The author focuses on the theoretical, methodological and organizational aspects of the relationships that private organizations have had with both, peasants and central government drawing conclusions concerning feasable courses of action. The small scale, basic needs oriented and participatory character of the work of these organizations is highlighted as particularly suited for the needs of poor rural areas. Moreover, not being tied up with the central government, this type of organizations has proven particularly suited for experimenting new approaches that can be used by large scale, centrally financed and operated rural development programmes.