The article evaluates the condition of public sector and characterizes its role in stimulating the development of rural areas in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Province. The research was conducted using the survey method among a randomly selected group of leaders representing 370 non-governmental organizations. In regard to the total number, the 2080 NGOs identified in the research in the province prove the rural third sector to have a significant potential. Similarly to the whole number of organizations, there are entities that are more active or less active, and some that have stopped any further activity as a result of various processes. The research showed that the non-governmental representatives are aware of the role that the organizations have in stimulating the rural areas. They also recognize particular methods of removing barriers reducing activeness.