How big data can help improve access to electricity

This article explores how big data can significantly enhance global access to electricity, particularly in developing countries. It discusses how advanced analytics can optimize energy infrastructure, improve grid efficiency, and reduce costs. The piece highlights applications such as using remote sensing and mobile data to identify areas lacking electricity, enabling targeted interventions and more flexible payment systems for off-grid solutions. By leveraging data-driven insights, big data can accelerate the expansion of reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity access, contributing to poverty alleviation and shared prosperity goals.

Innovative Finance Solutions for Climate Smart Infrastructure

This World Bank report focuses on innovative finance solutions to develop climate-smart infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on results-based blended finance. It explores how various financial instruments can be combined to mobilize private capital for sustainable infrastructure projects that address climate change. The report highlights the importance of tying financing to measurable outcomes to ensure effectiveness and scalability in achieving climate resilience and low-carbon development.

What is Pay for Success?

This article defines Pay for Success as an innovative financing model that directs resources towards effective social programs by focusing on measurable outcomes. It outlines four core principles: clearly-defined outcomes, data-driven decision making, outcomes-based payment, and strong governance and accountability. The model encompasses various tools like Social Impact Bonds and Career Impact Bonds, aiming to accelerate social change by aligning public, private, and nonprofit sectors to tackle complex social challenges with a focus on demonstrable results.

A History of Philanthropy in the United States

This book explores the unique history of philanthropy in the United States, positioning it as the most philanthropic nation globally, even with the expansion of its welfare state. It contrasts American generosity, both in monetary donations and volunteer hours, with other industrialized countries, particularly in Europe, where state-centric social policies have diminished charitable giving. The author posits that the American conception of charity is distinct, stemming from singular historical and religious events, manifesting as a dual approach to social policy involving both government largesse and individual giving.

Philanthropic Networks and Their Role in Social Capital Formation

This paper investigates the formation of philanthropic networks and their significant impact on social capital. It offers insights into how collaborative efforts among diverse donors can enhance community welfare and optimize resource sharing. The study highlights the mechanisms through which these networks strengthen social bonds and collective action, contributing to more effective and widespread philanthropic outcomes. It underscores the importance of interconnectedness and partnership in maximizing social impact within communities.

A stage model of venture philanthropy

This paper explores the practices of venture philanthropy (VP), developing an eight-stage model from inductive analysis of high net worth entrepreneurs. The qualitative case study involved interviews with philanthropists, foundation teams, and investee organizations. The findings outline stages from deal sourcing to disengagement and return. Comparisons are drawn with venture capital, developmental VC, and business angel investment, highlighting VP as a hybrid model incorporating elements of all three approaches, thereby contributing to understanding its unique operational characteristics.

A Social Rights Model for Social Security: Learnings from India

This article examines India’s social security system through a social rights model, highlighting the gap between formal commitments (ratified human rights and ILO conventions) and actual coverage, especially for informal sector workers and poorer populations. It analyzes the jurisprudence of the Supreme Court of India regarding social rights, particularly the right to food, education, and health. The author argues that significant efforts are needed to expand social security coverage and ensure indiscriminate access to essential services from a human rights perspective.

What Drives Good Philanthropy? The Relationship Between Governance and Strategy in Foundations

This paper investigates the critical role of effective governance in shaping the strategies of grant-giving foundations. It examines how governance mechanisms influence decision-making and resource allocation within philanthropic organizations, particularly concerning their support for public interest activities. Drawing on data from 112 large Italian foundations, the study highlights the significance of active boards in identifying public needs and making sound investment decisions, in contrast to inert boards that may pursue private agendas. The research emphasizes that in the non-profit sector,."

US Philanthropy: Trends in Giving and the Impact on Society

This chapter analyzes trends in US philanthropy and their societal impact. It examines shifts in giving patterns across individuals, corporations, and foundations, noting a decrease in individual contributions to religious causes and the reorientation of corporate giving towards promotional tools. The author highlights the increasing importance of foundation grants and projects this trend to continue. The analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape of charitable giving in the United States and its implications for various sectors.

Transformational Philanthropy: A New Way Forward for Community Philanthropy?

This paper investigates the concept of "transformational philanthropy" as a new paradigm for community philanthropy. It explores how philanthropic efforts can move beyond traditional grantmaking to foster deeper, systemic change within communities. The authors discuss the characteristics of transformational philanthropy, including its emphasis on power-sharing, community leadership, and long-term engagement. The paper aims to provide insights into how community foundations and other philanthropic actors can adopt more transformative approaches to address complex social challenges and empower local stakeholders.
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