Introduction: American Philanthropy and the Rebirth of Higher Education in Africa

This chapter examines how American philanthropic organizations have contributed to the revival and transformation of higher education across Africa. It analyses motivations, funding models, and partnerships driving institutional development, capacity building, and academic excellence. The discussion highlights both benefits—such as innovation and access—and criticisms, including dependency, cultural misalignment, and sustainability concerns.

Introduction: A new 'new'philanthropy: From impetus to impact

This introductory chapter re-examines the concept of ‘new philanthropy,' analysing its evolution and distinguishing characteristics. It reflects on the shift from traditional charitable giving to more strategic, outcome-oriented practices that prioritize measurable impact. The authors trace the emergence of new actors, methods, and motivations, questioning the assumptions underlying this shift. Drawing on empirical evidence and interdisciplinary literature, the chapter critiques the instrumentalisation of philanthropy and urges a balanced understanding that acknowledges power dynamics and long-term societal transformation.

Internal culture, external impact: How a change-making culture positions foundations to achieve transformational change

This article argues that a foundation’s internal culture is crucial for achieving large-scale social change, a factor often overlooked in strategic discussions. While there’s no singular ideal culture, foundations aiming for transformational impact must embody characteristics such as an outcomes focus, transparency, authenticity, collaboration, racial equity, inclusion, continuous learning, and openness to risk. The piece examines challenges in cultural change, offers case studies of successful transformations, and provides advice for foundations aspiring to cultivate a change-making culture for greater external impact.

Insisting and resisting: women's funds lead the way for local philanthropy

Women’s funds are recognized as key agents of social change, leading local philanthropy efforts. This piece highlights their role in building sustainable, local support for women and girls’ rights, particularly amidst restrictions on foreign funding. It emphasizes the importance of local resource mobilization for autonomy and responsiveness to community needs. Women’s funds innovate in fundraising strategies, like HER Fund in Hong Kong, and engage in relationship-building to become visible change actors, inspiring local contributions to human rights movements.

Individual giving and philanthropy in Turkey

This paper investigates individual giving and philanthropy in Turkey, with a particular focus on informal giving directly to individuals in need. Based on surveys conducted in 2004 and 2015, the research finds significantly higher levels of informal giving compared to formal giving, though informal giving decreased over the period. Turks overwhelmingly prefer giving to individuals over institutions, a contrast to findings in many other countries. Despite this preference, the determinants of informal giving in Turkey largely align with broader research on motivations for giving, indicating common underlying factors influencing philanthropic behavior.

Indigenous philanthropy

This piece explores the concept of ‘indigenous philanthropy’ as the non-state transfer of material and non-material resources among a given population. It argues that this form of giving, distinct from professional philanthropy, has historically been marginalized in academic and policy discussions. Key characteristics include its generally horizontal nature (among people of similar socioeconomic status) and its long, albeit problematic, interaction with Western knowledge. The authors emphasize that acknowledging mutual exchange between indigenous and Western knowledge does not negate power imbalances, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of diverse philanthropic practices.

How a new generation of business leaders views philanthropy

This report explores how the new generation of business leaders perceives and engages with philanthropy. It likely examines their motivations, preferred approaches to giving, and the integration of philanthropic efforts into their business strategies. The report may highlight differences from previous generations, such as a greater emphasis on impact, strategic giving, and social entrepreneurship. It aims to provide insights into the evolving landscape of corporate and individual philanthropy as influenced by emerging leadership perspectives.

Government and philanthropy in Israel

This article investigates the dynamics between government and philanthropic sectors in Israel, exploring their respective roles and interactions in addressing societal needs. It likely examines how philanthropic organizations operate within the Israeli regulatory and policy framework, and how their activities complement or sometimes overlap with government services. The research may delve into the historical context, current trends, and future prospects of this relationship, shedding light on the unique characteristics of the Israeli philanthropic landscape and its impact on various social welfare areas.

Funding in the 21st Century. Trends and Priorities in the Foundation Sector

This report explores how foundations are adapting to modern challenges by prioritizing equity, collaboration, and innovative funding models. It highlights a shift toward trust-based philanthropy, greater transparency, and flexible, long-term support. The report also emphasizes the growing influence of technology and data in shaping funding decisions, providing insights into emerging trends and priorities within the foundation sector.

Exclusive corporate philanthropy: rethinking the nexus of CSR and corporate philanthropy

This article rethinks the relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and corporate philanthropy, suggesting that they are interconnected yet distinct. It analyzes the ways in which CSR initiatives influence corporate philanthropic activities, offering a framework for understanding how businesses can contribute more effectively to social causes. The paper discusses the evolving nature of corporate philanthropy and its increasing integration into business strategies, calling for a reevaluation of their impact.
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