That is a small, but helpful impact. Clemens et al (2012) found that aid results in some degree of growth in recipient countries, although the magnitude of growth in relation to the amount of aid is in general modest, it varies greatly across recipients, and the results diminish at high levels of aid. Given its unique mandate to directly target development, improve welfare and reduce poverty, ODA remains an essential resource in many countries, especially the poorest—those with limited access to private finance and low levels of domestic resources.