Institutional Philanthropy Research Study

Inyathelo: The South African Institute for Advancement commissioned a research study to better understand the size and scope of institutionalised private philanthropy in South Africa.

The objectives of the research project were to:

• understand the size and scope of the local institutionalised philanthropic sector i.e. established charitable trusts and philanthropic foundations;
• evaluate the impact of philanthropy within different sectors, including education, employment creation, and infrastructure development, but not excluding others; and
• assess the effectiveness and sustainability of interventions supported by philanthropic foundations.

This research provided influential insights and information to better understand formal, institutionalised philanthropy in South Africa and will be of value not only to civil society, but also to private wealth management professionals, the South African Treasury and individuals interested in philanthropic endeavours. Research included an analysis of existing literature and definitions of philanthropy, and a consideration of the origins of, motivations for and trends in philanthropy (or giving) both in South Africa and internationally. Case studies on Ireland, Singapore and Egypt as well as case studies of South African Foundations and Trusts were developed to present an analysis of emerging innovative funding models such as donor-advised funds (DAFs); social impact bonds (SIBs) and social enterprises.