Philanthropy and the religious life of goodness in China

Weller, Huang & Wu document how religious philanthropy in China, particularly through industrialized donor models prevalent in Taiwan, China, and Malaysia, actively defines moral goodness and public welfare. This chapter meticulously explores the phenomenon of bureaucratized, large-scale giving, delving into its spiritual motivations. It also critically examines the significant implications of such religious philanthropy for the development of civil society and the broader governance landscape, offering a nuanced perspective on the intersection of faith, giving, and societal impact in Chinese contexts.

Philanthropy and innovation

This book chapter explores the intersection of philanthropy and innovation, emphasizing how philanthropic capital acts as a catalyst for both technological and social experimentation. Through diverse examples from academia, science, and the arts, it outlines the structural elements that support innovative endeavors. The chapter advocates for transparent governance in philanthropic organizations and highlights philanthropy’s crucial role in fostering entrepreneurship. It argues that philanthropic funding provides essential risk capital, enabling the development and scaling of novel solutions to complex societal challenges where traditional markets might fall short.

Philanthropy for a safe, healthy, and just world

Based on a 2019 survey of 823 CSOs, this report reveals that less than 1% of philanthropic grants support peacebuilding, with only 18% of respondents considering it "very important. " However, 57% highlight resilience and stable societies as key. The findings suggest a broader societal embrace of social justice and human rights frameworks over explicit peace agendas, prompting funders to rethink priorities. The report encourages a re-evaluation of philanthropic strategies to more effectively address underlying issues contributing to instability and conflict.

Philanthropy and the COVID-19 Response in India

Venkatachalam, Yeh & Memon explore the responsive strategies of Indian philanthropists during COVID-19. They highlight how flexible, rapid funding filled critical gaps in healthcare, social protection, and community outreach. The report outlines targeted interventions—such as slum relief and PPE supply—emphasizing philanthropy's complementary role alongside government efforts in crisis contexts. It showcases the agility and vital contributions of the philanthropic sector in addressing urgent needs and supporting vulnerable populations during an unprecedented health crisis. This analysis provides valuable lessons for future disaster response.

Philanthropy and dementia care in Ireland

Carney & O’Shea assess The Atlantic Philanthropies' €33 million investment in dementia policy and care in Ireland (2011–2016). They analyze its impact on service provision, policy development, and stakeholder collaboration, highlighting philanthropy's catalytic role in national health reform. The study demonstrates how strategic philanthropic funding can significantly influence public health outcomes and policy landscapes, serving as a catalyst for systemic change. It provides a detailed case study of how targeted investments can lead to substantial improvements in critical social sectors.

Philanthropic Foundations Canada: Building a community and a voice for philanthropy

This chapter explores the evolving relationship between philanthropic foundations and Indigenous communities in Canada. It highlights both the colonial legacy of philanthropy and emerging efforts to build more reciprocal, accountable partnerships rooted in Indigenous worldviews. Through examples and analysis, the authors call for shifts in governance, funding practices, and evaluation approaches to support Indigenous self-determination and systemic change, contributing to a more equitable philanthropic landscape. The paper emphasizes the need for philanthropy to genuinely contribute to Indigenous self-determination and systemic change rather than perpetuating colonial structures.

Philanthropy and Social Justice: Examining the Social Impact of Grant-making by Philanthropic Institutions in Australia

Simm explores how Australian philanthropic foundations conceptualize and implement grantmaking to advance social justice. Through in-depth case studies, she evaluates the social impacts of these grants and investigates how institutional priorities, evaluation practices, and stakeholder relationships mediate the effectiveness and justice orientation of philanthropic efforts. The research aims to understand the mechanisms that either enhance or limit philanthropy’s contribution to social justice outcomes.

Philanthropy and Social Impact: A NPF Mini-Symposium

Ferris and Graddy introduce a symposium that examines contemporary approaches to philanthropic effectiveness. They frame discussions around instrumental philanthropy, social impact bonds, and engagement with public policy, focusing on how philanthropic strategies are evolving to achieve measurable societal outcomes. The article emphasizes the growing adoption of collaborative and data-driven practices within the philanthropic sector to enhance impact.

Philanthropy and Society

Maurrasse examines how philanthropic institutions contribute to societal betterment through strategic partnerships, fostering inclusion, and aiming for intentional impact. He identifies two core trends: the rise of data-informed, strategic giving and a growing emphasis on equity and inclusion. Through diverse global case studies, the book articulates effective tactics for fostering mutuality between funders and communities, demonstrating how philanthropy can be responsibly leveraged to address complex systemic challenges and promote social good.

Peace and Security Funding Index: An Analysis of Global Foundation Grantmaking – 2020 Edition

This Index provides a comprehensive analysis of global foundation grantmaking specifically targeting peace and security initiatives. It quantifies funding levels, details geographic distribution, identifies thematic priorities, and profiles key funders. The 2020 edition offers updated data and crucial insights, revealing existing funding gaps and emerging trends in philanthropy's essential role in conflict prevention and peacebuilding efforts worldwide. The report serves as a vital resource for funders and practitioners in the field.
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