Achim Steiner, A Conversation with Badr Jafar

Achim Steiner, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Badr Jafar, Founding Patron of the Centre for Strategic Philanthropy, engage in a conversation about the future of development and its financing. Their discussion highlights the significant role of technology and how philanthropy’s capacity to embrace innovation can shape a progressive vision for development. The dialogue emphasizes a future where both people and the planet can thrive together, underscoring the interconnectedness of philanthropic efforts, technological advancements, and sustainable global development.

Accelerating the Movement Toward Funding Practices That Strengthen Nonprofits

This essay, part of the "Funding Performance" monograph, highlights ingrained funding practices that undermine nonprofit financial health and effectiveness. Authors Jeri Eckhart Queenan and Jeff Bradach argue that recent funder pledges to loosen grant restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic could be a turning point, advocating for flexible, trust-based funding, specifically "multiyear, general operating dollars" (MYGOD) to empower grantees and achieve greater impact for constituents, especially during crises.

Philanthropy and the Future of Science and Technology.

Richards (Michelson) argues that science-focused philanthropies are increasingly shaping research agendas and societal innovation. He outlines how foundations can balance basic and applied science funding, ethical risk remediation, and long-term stewardship. The article proposes governance frameworks ensuring philanthropic science aligns with public interest and responsible innovation, offering a model for navigating the complexities of private funding in public good, emphasizing accountability and ethical considerations in scientific advancement and technological development.

Perspective in Philanthropy : Is justice even possible?

This recorded panel discussion features Julia Stasch and Kelli Rhee, who explore whether philanthropy can genuinely advance justice. They debate critical aspects such as power dynamics, accountability, and structural constraints that limit philanthropic impact. The discussion also considers the potential for philanthropic strategies to promote equity while navigating the risk of co-optation of justice agendas, prompting a deeper reflection on philanthropy’s true role in achieving societal fairness.

Philanthropy: The Citizens' Social Capital Amidst the Pandemic

Arpannudin & Suryadi examine how Indonesian philanthropic activity during the COVID-19 pandemic is deeply rooted in cultural values such as gotong royong (mutual cooperation) and religiosity. They highlight that giving, in this context, functions as a powerful form of civic social capital, fostering solidarity, civic education, and mutual support among citizens. The authors argue that philanthropy serves as a crucial bridge for relationships among citizens, communities, and the state during times of crisis, demonstrating its fundamental role in collective resilience and social cohesion.

Place-Based Philanthropy and Measuring Community Well Being in the Age of COVID-19

This article examines the role of place-based philanthropy in measuring and improving community well-being, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It explores how philanthropic efforts focused on specific geographic areas can leverage local data and foster community engagement to address unique challenges. The author discusses the importance of robust data infrastructure to effectively assess the impact of these interventions and adapt strategies in times of crisis. The piece highlights how place-based approaches can strengthen local resilience and promote holistic community development.

Philanthrocapitalism as wealth management strategy: Philanthropy, inheritance and succession planning among the global elite

This article examines "philanthrocapitalism" as a wealth management strategy employed by the global elite, focusing on its intersection with inheritance and succession planning. It analyzes how wealthy individuals and families utilize philanthropic endeavors not only for social impact but also as a means to manage, preserve, and transfer wealth across generations. The authors delve into the mechanisms by which philanthropy integrates into broader financial and estate planning, highlighting its role in reputation building, tax efficiency, and maintaining dynastic influence, offering a critical perspective on the motivations behind elite giving.

Philanthropy: the continued journey to real impact and better practice

York & McKegg reflect on the evolution of philanthropy towards impact-driven practice. They critique outcome-focused models and advocate systems thinking, trust-based relationships, and equity-centered engagement. Using Australian examples, they propose a framework for more adaptive, accountable, and inclusive philanthropic practice. The report encourages a shift from traditional, often rigid, approaches to a more dynamic and responsive philanthropy that genuinely empowers communities and addresses systemic issues. It emphasizes building trust and fostering collaborative environments for greater social impact.

Philanthropy in Education: Making Sense of an Emerging Field

Erfurth & Ridge overview contemporary education philanthropy trends, especially post-COVID. They highlight growing influence of tech-driven philanthropies, venture philanthropy, and the need for diverse, global research beyond the U.S. model. The chapter calls for expanded inquiry into impact, accountability, and equity in education giving. It emphasizes the evolving landscape of education philanthropy, particularly with the rise of new actors and approaches, and stresses the importance of rigorous research to ensure equitable and impactful outcomes in a global context.

Philanthropy movement's response to government policy in negotiating COVID-19 in Indonesia

Meiji et al. analyze Indonesian philanthropic mobilization during COVID-19, focusing on NGOs' interactions with government policies. They describe adaptive grantmaking, tailored relief initiatives, and advocacy to shape public health support, highlighting the sector's agility and emergent frameworks of public-private collaboration. The chapter demonstrates how philanthropy can play a crucial role in crisis response, complementing government efforts and adapting quickly to urgent societal needs. It provides valuable insights into the dynamics of cross-sectoral partnerships in times of national emergency.
We use essential and analytics cookies to operate this website and understand how visitors interact with it. As this site also functions as a login identity provider (IDP) for other ISDM portals, some cookies are necessary to enable secure authentication. By continuing to use this site, you consent to our use of cookies.