• Academic / Journal Article

Searching for critical issues in philanthropy

  • Source : Nonprofit Management & Leadership
  • May 2026
Til catalogues key challenges in modern philanthropy: donor definitions, power dynamics, accountability, and the evolving relationship between donors and society. He calls for theory-building that addresses misconceptions and sets an agenda for inclusive, scholarship-driven philanthropic practices. The article advocates for a more robust theoretical framework in philanthropy research to better understand its complexities and address pressing issues. It emphasizes the importance of fostering greater accountability and transparency within the philanthropic sector, ensuring that practices are inclusive and aligned with societal needs rather than solely donor interests.
  • Media Article

Philanthropy, old and new

  • Source : The Hindu
In this op-ed, Rohini Nilekani offers a critical reflection on India's evolving philanthropic landscape, tracing its transition from traditional charity-based giving to more strategic and rights-based approaches. She underscores the vital role of robust civil society organizations, enhanced transparency, and collaborative partnerships in fostering inclusive development. While acknowledging the potential of strategic philanthropy, Nilekani also cautions against an overreliance on market-centric giving, advocating instead for approaches that prioritize long-term social impact and equitable outcomes within the Indian context.
  • Book

Philanthrocapitalism: How the Rich Can Save the World Hardcover – September 30, 2008

  • Source : Bloomsbury Press
  • May 2026
This book explores the concept of "philanthrocapitalism," examining how wealthy individuals and foundations are applying business principles and market-based approaches to address social problems. It delves into the strategies employed by "billionaire philanthropists," focusing on their emphasis on social investment, impact metrics, and results-driven giving. The authors discuss the potential for philanthrocapitalism to create significant social change while also considering its challenges and criticisms, such as accountability and potential conflicts of interest. The book provides an overview of this evolving trend in philanthropy and its implications for global development.
  • Academic / Journal Article

Philanthropy and enterprise: harnessing the power of business and entrepreneurship for social change

  • Source : MIT Press
Dees argues that social entrepreneurs and supportive philanthropists leverage market mechanisms to address poverty and catalyze public good. The article emphasizes the need for hybrid models combining business discipline with philanthropic goals, and calls for nuanced support structures and impact metrics. It highlights how integrating entrepreneurial principles into philanthropic endeavors can lead to more innovative and sustainable solutions for social challenges. This approach seeks to maximize both financial efficiency and social impact through strategic partnerships.
  • Paper / Report

Poverty and philanthropy: Strategies for change

  • Source : MDRC
Berlin examines philanthropic strategies addressing poverty in the U.S., evaluating cash assistance, education, and workforce development initiatives. He advocates for long-term investment, cross-sector collaboration, and evidence-based interventions to create sustainable poverty alleviation. The report emphasizes the necessity of a holistic and data-driven approach to philanthropy, moving beyond short-term fixes to address the root causes of poverty through sustained engagement and strategic partnerships. It underscores the importance of measurable outcomes and collaborative efforts for effective social change.
  • Academic / Journal Article

PHILANTHROPY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE IN SOUTH AFRICA: ADDRESSING UNDERLYING CAUSES OR MITIGATING IMPACT?

  • Source : University of the Witwatersrand
Mahomed analyzes the conceptual frameworks guiding independent funders in South Africa, contrasting social-justice philanthropy with traditional models. Through interviews and document analysis, she demonstrates that funders' self-conceptions significantly influence their grant priorities. The study finds that funders adopting justice-oriented frameworks are more likely to pursue structural change and engage with activist agendas, aiming to address underlying causes rather than merely mitigating impacts.
  • Book

Public health branding: Applying marketing for social change

  • Source : Oxford University Press
  • May 2026
Evans & Hastings synthesize theory and case studies to demonstrate how branding strategies—central in commercial marketing—can effectively shape public health behaviors. They discuss key marketing principles such as the 7Ps, methods for brand evaluation, and present powerful examples like successful youth anti-smoking campaigns and impactful global health initiatives. The book argues convincingly that strategic investment in branding significantly enhances the effectiveness and scalability of social marketing efforts for widespread health and behavior change.
  • Paper / Report

Venture philanthropy in Europe: Landscape and driving principles

  • Source : SSRN
  • May 2026
This paper provides an overview of the venture philanthropy landscape in Europe, outlining its key characteristics, trends, and driving principles. It examines the evolving models and approaches adopted by European venture philanthropists, highlighting their commitment to providing not just financial capital but also non-financial support to social purpose organizations. The authors analyze the motivations behind venture philanthropy’s growth in the European context and the challenges it faces. This comprehensive review sheds light on the unique aspects of European venture philanthropy and its role in fostering social innovation and impact across the continent.
  • Academic / Journal Article

Using Lessons From Public Affairs to Inform Strategic Philanthropy

  • Source : Sage Publications
  • May 2026
This article proposes a new framework for philanthropic strategy, drawing lessons from decades of public affairs research. It argues that while private philanthropy can drive significant social change, this potential is often unrealized. By integrating insights from social change movements, government-nonprofit relationships, and nonprofit management, the framework helps foundation staff develop and refine their strategies. It offers key questions and a flexible model for private investment in human services, with implications for both practice and future research.
  • Academic / Journal Article

Understanding the craft of philanthropy: Do we make something that should be simple too complex?

  • Source : Health Affairs
  • May 2026
This perspective piece addresses two critical questions regarding philanthropy: the adequacy of evaluation in grantmaking for social change and the potential for better idea testing through less "merit-based" grantee selection for demonstration projects. It examines whether philanthropies effectively assess their approaches and if simplifying the selection process could enhance testing new ideas. The article implicitly suggests a need for more robust, perhaps less complex, methodologies in philanthropic practice to maximize social impact.
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