A New'New'Philanthropy: from impetus to impact

This chapter explores the evolving landscape of philanthropy, which is increasingly called upon to address major social, economic, and environmental issues. It highlights the emergence of "new" philanthropic approaches—such as strategic, venture, entrepreneurial, catalytic, and high-impact philanthropy—driven by innovations and a reimagining of the field. The piece examines how expectations of donors, concepts of impact and social investment, new tools, and philanthropy’s relationships with the state and market are rapidly transforming, aiming to differentiate these developments from past trends and emphasize a focus on achieving substantial impact.

A New Domain for Place-Rooted Foundations: Economic Development Philanthropy

This article introduces economic development philanthropy as a new domain for place-rooted foundations, emphasizing their crucial system-actor role in fostering economic development for better outcomes for families and communities. It highlights the need for foundations to identify and fill gaps not addressed by other organizations, ensuring a value-added role. The piece also offers initial insights into building a movement of foundations embracing social entrepreneurship to advance an economy that benefits all, encouraging further discussion on their role in this movement.

A Grounded Approach to Philanthropy: Strengthening civil society in Liberia and Zimbabwe

This book provides an in-depth assessment of TrustAfrica, an African-led foundation, and its assertion of local agency in philanthropy. Through case studies and essays, it reviews the foundation’s work in areas like women’s rights, agriculture, and democratic reform. The volume emphasizes how local control over funding challenged donor-imposed conditions and fostered experimentation in grassroots philanthropy. It notes both successes and limitations, such as constraints from external funding norms, advocating for deeper, long-term support to transform African philanthropy.

Women and Dance Philanthropy: Revitalizing Dance Development Through Proven Fundraising Methods

This article investigates the intersection of women, philanthropy, and dance, focusing on how proven fundraising methods can revitalize dance development. It explores the significant contributions of women as donors, fundraisers, and leaders within the dance community. The piece highlights successful strategies for engaging women in philanthropic efforts for dance, emphasizing cultivation, stewardship, and communication tailored to their interests and motivations. It also examines the unique challenges and opportunities in securing financial support for dance, advocating for a strategic approach that leverages the influence and generosity of women to foster the growth and sustainability of dance organizations and initiatives.

Wiring a new social economy: Reflections on philanthropy in the digital age

This chapter explores the evolving landscape of philanthropy in the digital age, examining how technology is reshaping traditional models of giving and social impact. It reflects on the emergence of new philanthropic platforms, online fundraising, and data-driven approaches to social change. The author discusses both the opportunities, such as increased transparency and broader reach, and the challenges, including issues of digital divide and accountability, presented by this technological shift. The piece considers how digital tools can foster greater collaboration, efficiency, and effectiveness within the social economy.

Why I regret pushing strategic philanthropy

This article reflects on the author’s changing perspective regarding strategic philanthropy. It delves into the potential pitfalls and unintended consequences that can arise from an overly rigid or business-oriented approach to giving. The author expresses regret for previously advocating for strategic philanthropy, suggesting that it can sometimes stifle innovation, discourage risk-taking, and overlook the nuanced realities of social change. The piece advocates for a more flexible and trust-based approach to philanthropy, emphasizing the importance of supporting grassroots efforts and empowering communities to define their own needs and solutions.

Vignette: The Geographies and Scales of Philanthropy

This vignette explores the diverse geographies and scales at which philanthropy operates, illustrating how philanthropic efforts manifest from local community initiatives to global endeavors. It delves into the spatial dimensions of charitable giving and investment, examining how geographical contexts influence philanthropic strategies and impact. The authors discuss the interplay between local needs and global challenges, and how philanthropic actors navigate these different scales. This piece provides a nuanced understanding of the geographical scope of philanthropy and its varying manifestations across different regions and levels of intervention.

Venture philanthropy: When philanthropy meets social entrepreneurship

This book chapter explores the dynamic intersection of venture philanthropy and social entrepreneurship, analyzing how these two concepts converge to drive social change. It delves into the unique characteristics of venture philanthropy, such as its long-term engagement, non-financial support, and focus on impact measurement, and how these align with the innovative and mission-driven nature of social enterprises. The authors discuss the synergies created when philanthropic capital is deployed with an entrepreneurial mindset, aiming for scalable and sustainable solutions to social problems. It provides a foundational understanding of this evolving field.

Venture philanthropy: il supporto non finanziario a sostegno dell'imprenditorialità sociale. Il caso di Fondazione CRT

This article examines the role of non-financial support provided by venture philanthropy in fostering social entrepreneurship, with a specific focus on the case of Fondazione CRT in Italy. It highlights how venture philanthropists go beyond mere financial contributions, offering strategic guidance, capacity building, and network access to social enterprises. The study analyzes the mechanisms through which such non-financial interventions enhance the sustainability and impact of social ventures. The Fondazione CRT case provides valuable insights into effective practices for supporting social entrepreneurship through a comprehensive, hands-on approach.

Travel philanthropy and sustainable development: the case of the Plymouth–Banjul Challenge

This article examines the intersection of travel philanthropy and sustainable development, using the Plymouth–Banjul Challenge as a specific case study. It investigates how philanthropic initiatives integrated with tourism can contribute to local development goals in recipient communities. The authors analyze the effectiveness of such approaches, considering both the positive impacts, such as economic benefits and cultural exchange, and potential challenges, including issues of dependency or unintended consequences. The study offers insights into optimizing travel-related philanthropic endeavors for greater sustainability.
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