Impact Minds 2026: Connecting Us

Publicado em 14 de setembro de 2026 por lxavier

By Débora Isis Gama, IDIS Partnerships and Business Development Manager

How can we turn connections into a strategic agenda for impact?

IDIS’ participation in Impact Minds 2026, Latimpacto’s conference held from September 9 to 11 in Manaus, offered valuable perspectives on this question. Under the theme “Connecting Us”, the event brought together social investors, philanthropists, and organizations to discuss how to align intentions, capital, and action.

IDIS team at Impact Minds 2026

The program began on September 9 with a series of field visits designed to bring participants closer to the local culture and to community-led initiatives. Given the range of activities available, our team split up to take part in three different experiences.

I chose to visit the Bahserikowi Indigenous Medicine Center, an initiative led by specialists from the Tukano, Desana, and Tuyuka peoples of the Upper Rio Negro region. The visit introduced us to ancestral knowledge and to a worldview that connects health, territory, spirituality, and community life. Participants learned about the Center’s work and had the opportunity to take part in a consultation and experience the traditional use of rapé with the specialists. They could also purchase traditional medicine products and handicrafts made by Indigenous artisans themselves.

Marcos Alexandre Manoel, IDIS Project Director, visited Viva Paricatuba, a community-based tourism initiative that brings together historical heritage, culture, and nature. By recognizing the knowledge and leadership of local residents, the initiative connects the preservation of collective memory with local development.

Rosana Ferraiuolo, manager of the Transforming Territories program, joined a visit focused on Indigenous funding, organized by TNC Brasil with the Podáali Fund and Derequine Atelier. Held at the atelier — an initiative led by women from the Witoto people in Parque das Tribos — the activity showcased funding mechanisms led by Indigenous peoples themselves. Local governance, trust, and institutional strengthening emerged as key pathways to expanding autonomy and supporting solutions designed within the territories themselves.

On September 10 and 11, the conference continued with panels and workshops that reinforced a central message: financial resources are essential, but they are not enough. Paula Fabiani and Guilherme Sylos brought IDIS’ perspectives to this discussion, in dialogue with other members of the Latin American ecosystem.

Trust, Capacity, and Collaboration

While moderating the panel “Building Capacities to Transform Systems,” Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, highlighted three elements: trust, capacity, and collaboration. These aspects underscore that bringing organizations together around a common cause does not, in itself, guarantee collective results. It is essential to identify which capacities are missing and create the conditions for organizations to complement one another.

“Building Capacities to Transform Systems” panel, featuring Paula Fabiani

The discussion also emphasized the importance of sharing evidence to inform collective decision-making. Another central point was the need to recognize communities — including those that remain beyond the reach of existing support networks — as co-creators of solutions. Systems change requires the humility to acknowledge that no one can achieve it alone, as well as the patience to sustain processes whose results may take time to emerge.

During the panel “Building Alliances for Impact,” Guilherme Sylos, IDIS Partnerships and Business Development Director, addressed the challenges of putting collaboration into practice. Knowing your partners and understanding their expectations is essential, as is a willingness to move beyond individual agendas. As examples of initiatives built on this approach, he highlighted Together for Health, a BNDES program managed by IDIS, and Juntos Contra a Pobreza, a Vale initiative also managed by IDIS.

“Building Alliances for Impact” panel, featuring Guilherme Sylos

These experiences demonstrate that alliances cannot be sustained solely by pooling resources or formalizing commitments. Trust must be built both among organizations and with local communities. When individual interests and competition for visibility take precedence over a shared purpose, the potential for transformation diminishes. Collaboration means putting collective outcomes ahead of individual recognition.

Paula also facilitated the workshop “Philanthropy Circle: Strengthening Giving in Latin America.” The session sought to connect resource mobilization with relationship-building, trust in organizations, and peer learning, with the goal of fostering more strategic and collaborative philanthropy.

The Transforming Territories team also participated in the Latimpacto conference alongside the CIAF (Comunidad Iberoamericana de Aprendizaje de la Filantropía Comunitaria) delegation, an Ibero-American collaborative network spanning seven countries. It was particularly valuable to see how closely the discussions over these days resonated with the path being built by place-based community philanthropy.

Transforming Territories and CIAF teams

Trust, collaboration, capacity building and, above all, the need to ensure that resources reach communities in ways that respect their local realities emerged across many conversations. This reinforces the importance of local organizations that can connect stakeholders, resources, and knowledge while recognizing communities as active participants in decision-making. It also leads us to recognize that we have concrete experiences to share and contributions to make to this debate across the region.

On another occasion during the conference, IDIS and UNICEF Brazil hosted a dinner bringing together people and organizations that, in different ways, contribute to addressing inequalities in Brazil.

Dinner hosted by IDIS and UNICEF Brazil

Learning from Local Communities

These reflections continued in other panels. “Innovative Finance for a Changing World” highlighted the need to bring available capital closer to local needs. Meanwhile, “Building Futures” underscored an important distinction: ensuring that local communities participate is not the same as including them in decision-making. Co-creating solutions requires recognizing communities’ ability to define their own priorities and build greater autonomy.

In the panel “Local Development: Connecting Stakeholders to Multiply the Impact of Capital,” participants were invited to look at the strengths and potential of local communities, rather than focusing solely on their needs and shortcomings. Thinking about development means considering what already exists and what kind of future communities themselves want to build.

My main takeaway from Impact Minds 2026 is that expanding the impact of philanthropy requires strengthening the relationships that make that impact possible. For IDIS, this means continuing to connect stakeholders, share knowledge, and build alliances without losing sight of who should be at the center of decision-making. Rather than bringing ready-made answers to communities, we need to learn from them and create the conditions for their own solutions to thrive over the long term.

Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2026: Between essence and reinvention

Publicado em 10 de setembro de 2026 por lmura

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The 15th edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum took place on August 27 in São Paulo. Organized by IDIS, the event brings together leaders and experts to strengthen philanthropy in Brazil, foster connections, and encourage the development of solutions to social challenges.

Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2026: Between essence and reinvention

With the theme Between essence and reinvention, the Forum’s sessions addressed issues such as the power of territories, new architectures for cultural, territorial, and socio-environmental financing, equity and persistent inequalities, impact and shared value creation, as well as different perspectives on Latin American and family philanthropy. Throughout the day, 314 guests attended the event, while the livestream reached nearly 5,000 views.

The program featured 13 sessions across 10 hours of programming, with 56 speakers. Among those taking part were Conceição Evaristo (Casa Escrevivência Conceição Evaristo), Belisa Maggi (Fundação AMAGGI and Instituto Signativo), Claudia Calais (Fundação Bunge), Eliana Sousa Silva (Redes da Maré), Michael França (Insper), Nick Tedesco (National Center for Family Philanthropy), Somachi Chris-Asoluka (Tony Elumelu Foundation), Valcléia dos Santos (Fundação Amazônia Sustentável), and Vitor Hugo Neia (Fundação Grupo Volkswagen).

The program opened with a performance by the Orquestra Maré do Amanhã, bringing the strength and potential of local territories to the stage. Next, Conceição Evaristo, writer and founder of Casa Escrevivência Conceição Evaristo, led the Forum’s first reflection in the session “What needs to remain when everything changes?”. In a speech marked by sensitivity and depth, the writer invited the audience to reflect on what should be preserved amid transformation and on the values that underpin the construction of fairer and more inclusive futures.

Panel ‘What needs to remain when everything changes?’

The first plenary, “Reinvention now. Relevance always!”, explored ways for philanthropy to adapt to a changing world without losing sight of its purpose. The discussion highlighted the importance of rethinking practices, strategies, and approaches so that philanthropic organizations and initiatives can maintain their relevance and expand their ability to generate social impact.

Next, the plenary “The power of territories: When essence guides reinvention” placed at the center of the debate the importance of recognizing the specific characteristics, knowledge, and potential present in each territory. The discussion reinforced how listening and local leadership can guide new approaches and strengthen initiatives capable of promoting transformations that are more closely connected to the realities and needs of communities.

The session “1% Commitment: The journey to joining the movement” highlighted the experiences of companies that have committed to allocating at least 1% of their net profits to social and environmental initiatives. The discussion demonstrated how joining the movement, which now has 30 signatories, can strengthen corporate social investment, bringing business practices closer to positive-impact strategies and contributing to a private sector that is increasingly engaged with society’s challenges.

In parallel sessions, participants explored different perspectives on the challenges and possibilities of reinvention in philanthropy. “Capital in reinvention: New architectures for cultural, territorial, and socio-environmental financing” discussed new ways of mobilizing and directing resources, while “Reinventing equity: New responses to persistent inequalities” explored strategies for addressing historical inequalities and developing more effective and inclusive responses.

Closing the morning program, the thematic lunch provided opportunities for exchange and deeper discussion. At each table, a host facilitated a conversation around one of the 20 proposed themes, broadening reflections on different issues related to philanthropy and social investment.

The program continued with a Dynamic Session, bringing new perspectives on the landscape of Artificial Intelligence in the social sector and on funding opportunities—both key elements in philanthropy’s ongoing reinvention. The session featured reflections by Célia Cruz, Visiting Fellow at the Skoll Centre, and Pedro Barros, co-founder of Sul – Intelligence for Impact, both members of the AI for Impact Coalition.

In the traditional “In conversation with…” interview, Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, spoke with Denise Aguiar, Managing Director of Bradesco Foundation, who shared her personal story and her perspective on the paths of philanthropy, the challenges of the present, and the importance of strengthening an approach committed to lasting social transformation.

Panel ‘In conversation with…’

In the panel “Impact that creates value: When data strengthens business and society”, participants discussed how the strategic use of data can help understand results, guide decision-making, and enhance the impact of initiatives. The conversation highlighted the importance of turning information into knowledge to generate value for both businesses and society.

In parallel sessions, participants further explored the role of different actors in philanthropy. “Latin American Philanthropy: Pathways to a shared future” reflected on the challenges and opportunities for strengthening philanthropic action across the region, while “Family Philanthropy: Local roots, lasting transformations” explored the role of families in building initiatives connected to local territories and capable of generating long-term impact.

The program also featured the 2025 winners of the Social Entrepreneur Award, who presented their initiatives, journeys, and the purpose behind their work.

Finally, the closing plenary, “The future is a choice, not a destiny”, reflected on the role of our choices in shaping the future we want. The discussion reinforced that the path toward a fairer and more sustainable society is not predetermined, but built through the decisions, commitments, and actions we take today.

Explore the full program.

“Reinvention does not mean breaking away from everything that came before. Sometimes, reinventing means finding new ways to honor what has always driven us: a commitment to the common good, reducing inequalities, strengthening civil society, and building a fairer and more sustainable world.”

— Paula Fabiani, in her closing remarks”

Watch the full recording of the event:

Organization and Support

The Brazilian Philanthropy Forum is an initiative of IDIS – Institue for the Development of Social Investment, Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), and Global Philanthropy Forum (GPF).  The Forum counts on Strategic Partne’s from Movimento Bem Maior and Fundação Bradesco; Gold Partner from RD Saúde; Silver Partner from Fundação Sicredi; Bronze Partner´s from Fundação ArcelorMittal, Fundação Grupo Volkswagen, Levisky Legado, and Instituto Sicoob; Institutional Partne’s from Fundo de Fomento à Filantropia and UNICEF. Media Partners are Alliance Magazine and Stanford Social Innovation Review Brasil.

The future is a choice, not a destiny

Publicado em 10 de setembro de 2026 por lmura

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By Letícia Santos, Project Analyst at IDIS

Building the future is an act of choice, and making choices requires naming what we want to change, having the courage to make public commitments, and being willing to engage in difficult conversations. These were the issues at the heart of the discussion between Nicholas Tedesco, President and CEO of National Center for Family Philanthropy (NCFP); Rodrigo Pipponzi, Member of the Social Impact Committee at RD Saúde and co-founder of Commitment 1%; and Michael França, Coordinator of the Racial Studies Center at Insper, during the closing panel of the 2026 Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, moderated by Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

Nicholas Tedesco, President and CEO of National Center for Family Philanthropy (NCFP)

For Nicholas, representing family philanthropy, courage begins by questioning the motivation behind a philanthropic legacy. Drawing on his experience in contexts where a culture of giving is already well established, Nicholas notes that families give, but do not always ask why, for what purpose, or what they want to endure.

Reimagining family philanthropy means creating space to question what should be preserved and what needs to change. Nicholas argues that we are in a period of transformation in which purpose must go hand in hand with current needs while anticipating those of the future. This means building governance structures that can sustain choices over time and creating conditions for different generations to come together around a common agenda.

In the United States, Nicholas shared that many families have increasingly directed their support toward democracy and efforts to address the climate crisis, but he emphasized that this process requires conversations about power and privilege that the field still tends to avoid.

In Brazil, the challenge comes earlier, as the involvement of wealthy families in philanthropy is still incipient and poorly documented, as highlighted in the report Paths to a Broader and More Strategic Action in Family Philanthropy in Brazil, produced by IDIS. According to data from the GIFE Census, in 2024, family foundations and institutes invested R$395 million, equivalent to approximately 7% of the total mapped by the census.

Turning to the social role of businesses, Rodrigo Pipponzi focused his remarks on the courage to make public commitments and uphold them over time. RD Saúde chose not to create a separate institute, meaning that the company’s business mission and social commitment are treated as one and the same. This is reflected, for example, in allocating a percentage of net profit to social investment, as a signatory to Commitment 1%, a collaborative initiative between IDIS and Instituto MOL that seeks to encourage companies to donate to civil society organizations.

Other ways the company has sought to align its business with its role in society include linking executive bonuses to ESG targets and involving senior leadership in the Social Impact Committee. Finally, Rodrigo emphasized that corporate philanthropy plays a catalytic role, with mobilization now being one of RD Saúde’s strengths. One example is the ‘round-up for charity’ initiative, which raises between R$4 million and R$5 million every year for civil society organizations in Brazil.

Paula Fabiani, CEO at IDIS

Prompted by Paula Fabiani to discuss how inequality affects Brazilian society and the role of philanthropy in this context, Michael França, representing academia, brought questions to the table that the field rarely addresses in depth. Referring to his recently published book Os Custos das Desigualdades: uma carta às elites econômicas [The Costs of Inequalities: a letter to the economic elites], co-authored with Daniel Duque and published by Editora Jandaíra, Michael argued that in a society that is among the most unequal in the world, the externalities produced by inequality are not always sufficiently addressed, making it harder to break cycles of inequality and narrowing the range of possible futures.

Reinventing philanthropy, in this sense, also means recognizing what it still fails to see. Michael spoke about his decision not to keep this knowledge confined to academic circles, instead bringing data and evidence into public debate and dialogue with governments. For philanthropy, he emphasizes that education alone cannot solve everything, and that transforming Brazilian society must extend beyond the walls of schools.

The conversation that followed with the audience deepened critical aspects of the current debate, revealing that the questions raised by the three speakers resonated beyond the stage. The first question, about the role of philanthropy in the face of denialism, elicited complementary responses from Michael França and Nicholas Tedesco. Michael pointed to a structural asymmetry in philanthropy as a driver of knowledge production: international funding tends to place greater trust in researchers and provide long-term institutional support, while in Brazil, funding tends to be more restricted, geared toward confirming hypotheses and answering narrowly defined questions. Nicholas added, based on his experience in the United States, that universities are seen as reference centers for disseminating philanthropic best practices and developing leaders — a role that is still being consolidated in Brazil.

The second question opened a discussion about collaboration among foundations, organizations, and smaller businesses. Nicholas said there is no magic formula, but that in the United States there is a growing recognition of the need to collaborate, even though some reluctance remains. For him, addressing the root causes of problems is only possible through systemic change, and systemic change requires collaboration. Pipponzi reinforced this argument from a business perspective, emphasizing that companies need to be willing to relinquish power and certain deeply held convictions in order to work together with communities and other actors, creating incentives for collaboration.

Rodrigo Pipponzi, Member of the Social Impact Committee at RD Saúde

In their closing remarks, each speaker offered a synthesis that echoed the theme of the panel. Pipponzi emphasized that building the future we want requires the courage to make choices and sustain them over time. Michael proposed thinking about legacy as a way of reducing social distances, maintaining integrity between philanthropic and business roles. Nicholas concluded with an invitation to keep spaces like the Forum alive, so that conversations like this can remain open.

Check ou the full panel:

Latin American Philanthropy: pathways toward a common future

Publicado em 10 de setembro de 2026 por lmura

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By Carla Irrazabal, Project Analyst at IDIS

Latin American identity seems to be increasingly visible. And this is not only because of the success of Latin music on Spotify and around the world. There is something that connects us and defines us, something that cannot be ignored. Perhaps the uncertainty of a world marked by conflict and the need to affirm identities have helped bring these shared characteristics to the center of the conversation.

Panel ‘Latin American Philanthropy: Pathways Toward a Common Future’

We have much in common, both in characteristics that could become trends and strengths to be valued, and in the things we feel need to change. At the same time that we are one of the most unequal regions in the world, we see generosity expressed in many everyday actions that shape our communities.

Our historical heritage, marked by colonization, Indigenous peoples, and the influence of the African diaspora forcibly brought to the region through slavery during the colonial period, shapes many of these characteristics. From Tierra del Fuego to Monterrey, we share histories, challenges, forms of solidarity, and a diversity that cannot be overlooked when we talk about Latin America.

Bringing this perspective to philanthropy, the panel “Latin American Philanthropy: Pathways to a Shared Future”, held during the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2026, invited us to reflect on what unites us, what Latin American countries have in common, and which characteristics of our region can contribute to building a stronger, more autonomous, and more connected philanthropic field.

The moderator, Guillermo Correa, Executive Director of Red Argentina para la Cooperación Internacional, opened the conversation by challenging participants to think about how to strengthen Latin American philanthropy without simply importing external models. The question ran throughout the entire panel: how can we expand collaboration among countries, strengthen our own capacities, and at the same time preserve the diversity and essence that characterize our ways of generating social and environmental impact?

Cassio França, Secretary general of GIFE, brought the Brazilian experience as a starting point for thinking about broader characteristics of the region. He spoke about the weight of corporate philanthropy: among GIFE members, 60% are companies and 20% are families.

This dynamic is reversed in the U.S. philanthropic landscape, where family philanthropy predominates. He raised a question about the role of family philanthropy in Latin America. In his view, it can bring something different to the field and create space for issues and causes that may not be as prominent in corporate philanthropy. The idea is not to choose between one form and another, but to recognize the contribution of different actors to building a more diverse ecosystem.

His remarks also highlighted an important point about the environment needed for this field to grow stronger: the need for a more favorable legal framework for giving. In a region marked by concentrated resources and deep inequalities, strengthening a culture of giving also means discussing the instruments and policies that encourage or hinder the allocation of private resources to the public good.

João Paulo Vergueiro (JP), Director of GivingTuesday’s Latin America and Caribbean Hub, brought a reflection on the different meanings of philanthropy to the conversation. Not only its literal meaning of “love of humanity”, associated with generosity, but also philanthropy understood as giving and as a field within civil society. Drawing on his experience at GivingTuesday, JP emphasized that generosity is already present in the everyday lives of Latin American countries. Solidarity and the willingness to help others are not necessarily something we need to create. The challenge is to recognize, structure, and strengthen these practices so that they can contribute more consistently to the philanthropic field.

But to do so, we still know too little about the field itself. A seemingly simple question — “How many civil society organizations are there in the country?” — already reveals the lack of data and research in many parts of the region. For JP, gaining a better understanding of the field is essential to making more strategic decisions and strengthening civil society.

The lack of data is also connected to an issue raised by Carolina Suárez, CEO of Latimpacto: the need to build greater trust in the Latin American social sector. She emphasized the importance of evidence, while also highlighting the need for balance. Many organizations do not have the same capacity to produce reports, indicators, and accountability materials in the formats required by funders. Without taking this reality into account, excessive requirements may divert resources away from precisely those organizations that are closest to the communities they serve.

Carolina Suárez, CEO of Latimpacto

For Carolina, developing a model of our own for Latin America is essential. Examples and solutions do not necessarily lie in models imported from the United States or other contexts. Many of them already exist here, in local practices, civil society networks, forms of community solidarity, and the ability of territories to organize and collaborate.

Carolina also highlighted the importance of building a Latin American identity. She noted that when people from African countries attend international conferences, they often say “I am African” rather than identifying primarily by their country of origin. We need to draw on this example and proudly affirm that we are Latin Americans.

In a second round of questions, which were more direct and focused on practice, Guillermo asked participants specifically about how to move forward and what examples could serve as references.

Cassio returned to the issue of the legal framework and emphasized the importance of instruments capable of encouraging a culture of giving and strengthening domestic resource mobilization. One of the references mentioned was India, where corporate social responsibility legislation requires companies that meet certain financial criteria to allocate at least 2% of their average net profit from the previous three years to corporate social responsibility initiatives.

JP summarized part of the conversation in three words: narrative, data, and structure. The narrative is needed to tell the story of what the third sector already does and has been doing across Latin America. Data provides the inputs needed to understand the field strategically. And structure means strengthening the networks that already exist in Brazil and Mexico and are beginning to take shape in Colombia, through groups such as GIFE.

Carolina concluded by emphasizing what may be one of Latin America’s greatest strengths: human capital. The ability to build relationships, mobilize people, work collaboratively, and develop solutions rooted in local territories is part of the region’s strength. For this potential to achieve greater scale, we will need to expand integration, trust, and pride in our shared identity.

This conversation showed us that Latin American philanthropy does not need to “reinvent the wheel” or seek answers in ready-made models from the Global North. Our strength lies precisely in what already exists here and is deeply Latin American: generosity, solidarity, cultural diversity, and the strength and leadership of our communities.

João Paulo Vergueiro | Director for Latin America and the Caribbean at GivingTuesday

The diversity of the continent, with its different histories, cultures, forms of organization, and ways of responding to local challenges, should not be a barrier to building a common agenda. On the contrary, it is an asset for developing solutions that are more closely connected to our realities.

In a context of polycrisis, in which social, political, economic, and climate-related challenges overlap, strengthening our bonds as Latin American hermanos becomes even more important. Models and experiences have already been developed here. The path forward may lie precisely in learning more about what our neighbors are doing, sharing lessons, and strengthening this regional network, which still has enormous room to grow.

Check ou the full panel:

Beyond the annual report: the value of evidence for strengthening business and society

Publicado em 10 de setembro de 2026 por lxavier

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By Joana Noffs, Project Analyst at IDIS

In the world of social projects and programs, it is common for data gathering to be limited to reporting periods, with evidence hastily mobilized to fill the colorful pages of annual reports. In this routine, numbers play an important role in transparency, but their potential remains largely untapped: demonstrating that the investment was made and that reach targets were achieved.

When information is left until the last minute, organizations miss the opportunity to use data to learn throughout the process and demonstrate the value generated within the organization itself through corporate social investment. The absence of strategic indicators leaves social and environmental investment more vulnerable, increasing the risk that the business will view it as a cost to be cut during periods of economic downturn. Moreover, when a territorial diagnosis is brought into the process before the pen even hits the paper, combining indicators with local listening, the logic is reversed: off-the-shelf solutions give way to interventions that are more responsive to local perspectives, capable of identifying bottlenecks, mitigating risks, and uncovering concrete opportunities for innovation and development within the value chain itself. Data becomes the language that translates realities on the ground to the decision-making table, helping ensure the sustainability and continuity of this investment within the corporate budget.

This was the central provocation of the panel “Impact That Creates Value: When Data Strengthens Business and Society”, held during the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2026. Moderated by Dihego Pansini, Executive Director of Instituto Alcoa, the panel challenged the sector to position itself within the transition proposed by the event’s theme: Between Essence and Reinvention.

Panel ‘Impact That Creates Value: When Data Strengthens Business and Society’ during the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2026

If the essence of social investment lies in a commitment to generating real transformation in people’s lives, its reinvention requires moving beyond historically top-down philanthropic practices, making diagnosis and evaluation ongoing channels for incorporating the voices of those who live in the territories and work throughout the entire value chain.

“Good business has to be good for everyone.” This motto, which Claudia Calais, Executive Director of Fundação Bunge, learned from her father as a child, illustrated her remarks. In her view, times have changed and things have become more urgent. The ESG agenda itself has gained urgency, while resources have become scarcer. This context requires corporate social investment to work alongside the value chain and strengthen public policies. At Fundação Bunge, a review of its strategy shifted the focus toward productive inclusion and a low-carbon economy, and the turning point was having data and indicators that demonstrated the value generated both externally and within the organization itself, as Claudia explained.

Claudia Calais, Executive Director of Fundação Bunge

“Our main turning point with the indicators, beyond directing the investment and showing whether we were on the right path, was that we began to engage with the investor on equal terms. (…) It is extremely important for me to measure what I am doing from the project’s perspective, but it is equally important that, through indicators showing what I deliver to the business, the business can see me as an investment, rather than a cost.”

A clear example of this two-way relationship emerged from the goal of ensuring that part of the biofuel supply would come from family farming. Instead of relying on producers in southern Brazil, who were already structured to meet the demand, Bunge invested in qualifying and organizing farming families in Brazil’s semi-arid Northeast into cooperatives. The result delivered what the business needed to participate in public tenders, in line with the public policy established by the Social Biofuel Seal, while also generating transformation in the region where it operates.

The effective use of evidence may require going beyond reach figures. Andressa Vasconcelos, Impact Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist at Fundação Sicredi, explained that at Sicredi, social investment must be accountable to its 10 million members, who deliberate on the R$400 million invested annually:

“Cooperativism is always about coming together based on an understanding of what is missing in a territory and how we, as a society, can organize ourselves to achieve this common goal. (…) So it is a tremendous responsibility to have initiatives that effectively generate transformation.”

In 2020, through the A União Faz a Vida Program, the organization conducted a Social Return on Investment (SROI) evaluation with IDIS. The assessment indicated a return of R$4 for every R$1 invested and revealed that secondary aspects of the Theory of Change were generating impacts that carried greater weight than the initiative’s central objective. Based on these learnings, the organization revisited its methodology and moved toward a causal evaluation focused on the pedagogical dimension, demonstrating direct progress among participating students in variables associated with cooperativism, such as autonomy, critical thinking, and collaboration. Above all, the value of the evaluation processes lay in the learning they generated, which was incorporated into the initiative, allowing it to be improved and its intended impact to be achieved.

“So, for us, impact evaluation is also a tool for accountability to our members. But above all, it is a tool for us to learn. To learn and evolve.”

Evidence also helps refine the map guiding the Foundation’s efforts to generate value for society — its Theory of Change, which identifies prosperity as a long-term objective. By conducting a nationwide survey to understand what Brazilians consider to be “prosperity,” Sicredi found that the concept goes beyond money, guiding the creation of non-financial solutions for territories.

Reading and interpreting evidence also makes it possible to address urgent issues pragmatically. Catarina reported that Fundação ArcelorMittal drew on data and qualified listening to incorporate the circular economy into its strategy.

“We had previous work involving evidence, facts, and data so that we could incorporate a new area of work, the circular economy,” she explained. “What made this agenda possible was realizing a unique opportunity to connect two ends of the same transformation chain. (…) We saw an opportunity to generate shared value for the business as well as for the community and society. But in order for us to choose the circular economy as a strategy for Fundação ArcelorMittal, we started with this listening process — a qualified listening process.”

A participatory diagnosis involving community leaders, public authorities, and local communities showed that waste management was a local priority. When this was combined with the reality of the 800,000 waste pickers in Brazil, many of whom are in situations of social vulnerability, according to a study conducted by AgoSocial in partnership with ArcelorMittal, as well as with the company’s goals of improving access to scrap metal and reducing emissions, the Foundation connected the steel value chain with efforts to strengthen these workers. The strategy seeks to bring citizenship, dignity, and visibility to waste pickers, who are responsible for more than 90% of recycling in the country, demonstrating that “when we talk about the circular economy, we also need to talk about social justice”, as Catarina emphasizes.

The conversation outlined three ways in which the private sector can use data in social investment: guiding the selection of agendas, generating continuous learning about the transformation produced, and connecting people and territories to corporate strategy. As Dihego Pansini emphasized in his summary of the panel, Monitoring and Assessment has a clear role in ensuring transparency, but the next step is to use this learning to inform organizations’ decision-making processes. This progress requires data to serve not only as a measurement tool, but also as a means of listening to and incorporating different voices and demands into the very construction of these agendas.

Dihego Pansini, Executive Director of Instituto Alcoa

When information ceases to be merely a record in a report and becomes part of day-to-day management, monitoring becomes a living process, making it possible to adjust strategies to increase impact, bring companies closer to communities, and provide the intelligence needed to strengthen the business itself and ensure its long-term sustainability.

Check ou the full panel:

Reinventing philanthropy also means sharing power

Publicado em 10 de setembro de 2026 por lxavier

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By Beatriz Santos, Project Analyst at IDIS

In a context of rapid change, reinventing oneself seems to have become an obligation for any organization that wants to remain relevant. In philanthropy, this discussion is often associated with new technologies, financial mechanisms, or strategies. All of these matter. But the panel “Reinvention Now. Relevance Always!”, held during the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2026, raised a more fundamental question: there can be no meaningful reinvention without clarity about what needs to remain.

Panel ‘Reinvention Now. Relevance Always!’, during the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2026

The discussion began with the opening remarks by Conceição Evaristo. By emphasizing that philanthropy must pursue social justice, the writer proposed understanding it not simply as giving, but as sharing. If philanthropy means love for humanity, its essence must lie in a commitment to people, social justice, and the transformation of realities. In other words, the essence should not change; what needs to evolve are the paths used to put it into practice.

Essence Guides Reinvention

At the event, this relationship was reflected in the experiences shared by Valcléia dos Santos, from Fundação Amazônia Sustentável (FAS); Vitor Hugo Neia, from Fundação Grupo Volkswagen; and Somachi Chris-Asoluka, from the Tony Elumelu Foundation.

Valcléia dos Santos, from Fundação Amazônia Sustentável (FAS)

Speaking about work in the Amazon, Valcléia highlighted the challenges of operating in remote territories marked by logistical difficulties, limited access to public services, and historical inequalities. In these contexts, turning resources into action requires listening to communities and recognizing that needs cannot be defined solely from the perspective of those who fund or implement a project. Communities are the ones who know their territories, their priorities, and the solutions that may work. Listening, therefore, cannot be merely a consultation step; it must also inform decision-making so that initiatives can adapt as contexts change.

The experience of Fundação Grupo Volkswagen revealed another dimension of this process, when the organization realized that its work had become disconnected from local territories and that its results no longer reflected the transformations it sought to promote. It therefore became necessary to revisit its strategy, move closer to local realities, and strengthen the capacities of organizations and communities. This shift, however, also meant reconnecting with something embedded in the Foundation’s own history: its attention to workers’ trajectories and social mobility. In this case, reinventing itself did not mean abandoning its essence, but finding a more coherent way to express it in the present.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation, meanwhile, starts from the understanding that Africa’s development should be led by local entrepreneurs. To support this vision, it provides training, access to capital, and support networks, seeking to adapt its strategies to different economic, social, and cultural realities. Technology emerges as an important — and above all, inclusive — tool, representing reinvention through the strengthening of the organization’s purpose without creating barriers.

From Participation to Sharing

The three experiences show that the essence of philanthropy does not lie in preserving projects, models, or ways of working. These elements can — and should — change. What remains is the ethical commitment to people, social justice, and long-term transformation. Reinvention is precisely what allows these principles to remain meaningful in new contexts. For this reason, sharing cannot mean simply transferring resources; it also means sharing the ability to identify problems, set priorities, and build solutions. In other words, sharing power.

Public during the Panel

This discussion is at the heart of approaches such as trust-based philanthropy, flexible funding, and locally led development. A 2026 analysis by Dalberg on philanthropic trends found that 83% of the large U.S. foundations surveyed reported some form of stakeholder participation. However, only 10% said they had actually transferred decision-making power to grantee organizations or communities. This gap shows that creating spaces for participation does not necessarily mean sharing decision-making power.

In its own work on trust-based philanthropy, IDIS highlights practices such as active listening, greater flexibility in the use of resources, simpler processes, and closer relationships between funders and grantee organizations. These practices reaffirm that the knowledge needed to transform a reality is not concentrated solely among those who control the resources.

Essence, reinvention, and relevance are therefore directly connected. Essence defines why philanthropy exists. Reinvention determines how it responds to changes in the present, while relevance depends on the ability to do both at the same time. An organization can preserve its ways of working and still drift away from its essence. Likewise, it can adopt technologies and innovative models without creating meaningful change.

Reinvention, on the other hand, is not about changing for the sake of change. It means recognizing when a strategy is no longer responding to its context and building new paths without losing sight of its purpose. After all, if philanthropy intends to remain relevant, its central question should not be only “What should we fund?” but also “Who gets to participate in deciding what needs to be done?”

Ultimately, sharing resources matters. But sharing the ability to choose the paths forward brings philanthropy closer to its essence: promoting social justice and helping ensure that people are protagonists in the transformations that affect their own lives.

Check out the full panel:

Strengthening capacities, building trust

Publicado em 10 de setembro de 2026 por lxavier

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By Luisa Lima, Communications Manager at IDIS

The institutional development of civil society organizations is not a peripheral element of their work. It is what sustains their ability to act with consistency, transparency, legitimacy, and institutional continuity. When an organization invests in governance, management, communication, technology, or the well-being of its teams, it strengthens the foundations that make its mission viable over the long term.

This agenda is directly connected to trust. Trust in NGOs is built not only through the relevance of the causes they champion, but also through the way they operate, report on their activities, communicate, make decisions, and maintain a public presence. The Brazil Giving Research 2024, conducted by IDIS, reinforces this point by showing that trust in institutions is an extremely relevant motivator for giving, while distrust remains a significant structural barrier: only 30% of Brazilians say that most NGOs are trustworthy, and among those who have not donated for more than five years, a lack of trust and transparency is the most frequently cited reason for not giving, mentioned by 38% of respondents.

In light of these findings, the data from the Panorama Conjunta Report 2025–2026 (available only in Portuguese) become even more relevant. The study mapped 793 training and fundraising opportunities in 2025, compared with 346 the previous year. Although this variation should be interpreted with caution due to methodological changes and the expansion of the sources analyzed, the findings show that institutional development has become more prominent in the sector and is gaining greater visibility. At the same time, the Panorama reveals important limitations in the design of available support. Among the fundraising opportunities, 62.66% provided for funding of up to one year. This suggests that, even as a greater number of opportunities are becoming available, mechanisms that are poorly suited to ongoing institutional strengthening processes still predominate.

Launch event of the study

This interpretation becomes even more relevant when we consider dimensions that remain less recognized among the topics covered by training opportunities. Technology is now essential infrastructure for management, communication, and mobilization. Mental health and self-care, in turn, are conditions for more sustainable teams and more resilient organizations. Monitoring and evaluation, for example, are fundamental for NGOs to learn from practice, demonstrate results, improve their management, and report on their activities more consistently. When these dimensions are not recognized as legitimate components of institutional development, the support provided tends to be insufficient to sustain strong and trustworthy organizations.

In this context, Plataforma Conjunta and its report make a valuable contribution to the sector by bringing visibility to opportunities, gaps, and trends that help advance the debate. Beyond increasing the volume of support available, the challenge now is to improve its quality: through greater flexibility, longer-term funding, and stronger recognition of the capacities that underpin NGOs work. After all, if trust is a condition for increasing donations, strengthening organizations institutionally is part of the path toward achieving that goal. Stronger and more trustworthy organizations contribute to a more robust democratic environment which, ultimately, is the shared horizon toward which we strive.

You don’t need billions to fund system change

Publicado em 9 de setembro de 2026 por jmaximiano

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Article originally published in IMPAKTER

Philanthropy in developed countries is facing a paradox: total giving is near record levels, driven by Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals and big foundations, even as the number of individual donors is shrinking. In the United States, recent fundraising data show that while total donations are rising, donor participation and retention are declining, especially among smaller donors. A similar trend is evident in Europe, where the World Giving Report found a 3% decrease in the share of people donating to charities over a one-year period, from 41% in 2024 to 38% in 2025.

As giving concentrates, the pressure to “prove impact” rises and donors gravitate toward what’s easiest to defend: tidy theories of change, clean metrics, a “what works” list and the promise of a single program that can be scaled fast.

For the last decade, Effective Altruism offered one influential answer to that pressure: identify the intervention with the highest expected return and fund it aggressively. That logic treats philanthropy like optimization — and in some domains, it works, especially in controlled problems where cause and effect are relatively direct.

But social change rarely behaves like an engineering problem. A program can work and still go nowhere if politics, implementation, and public trust don’t move with it. Systems shift when evidence, public narrative, political feasibility, and implementation capacity align — and when someone funds the work of alignment. So what if effective philanthropy is not about finding the best intervention, but funding the conditions for adoption?

That is where mid-sized donors (families and individuals giving under $10 million a year) have a hidden advantage. They cannot outspend the government or build entire ecosystems around them the way billionaires can. But they can move faster, share risk through co-investment, and combine money with assets that don’t appear on a balance sheet: credibility, access, convening power, and patience.

In our work advising donors in Brazil through IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment and Movimento Bem Maior, we see the same pattern: effectiveness comes less from picking a single winner and more from building a portfolio of moves around one problem — delivery, proof, advocacy, and the partnerships that make adoption possible.

A momento from the IDIS – Transforming Territories Program

To show what this looks like in practice, we start in places where money is scarce, politics are messy, and failure is not an option. Brazil and Colombia offer a clear window into a more integrated kind of giving, one where donors do not bet on a single horse, but fund the different elements that turn a promising idea into something a system can actually adopt. We then bring the lens back to the United States, where the same portfolio logic has helped turn a neglected issue into budget lines, standards, and lasting public accountability.

Together, the three cases show how a portfolio approach helps non-billionaire philanthropists generate structural impact that single-strategy giving rarely delivers.

Brazil: reducing criminal recidivism by changing the system

The Instituto Ação Pela Paz in Brazil, created and maintained by philanthropist Jayme Garfinkel, had an annual budget of nearly $1 million in 2024. The Institute focuses on reducing criminal recidivism by supporting and scaling structured reentry and rehabilitation programs. Since its founding, Ação Pela Paz has supported more than 775 initiatives and reached nearly 36,000 individuals, including both incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people, across multiple states.

According to publicly reported evaluations, 82% of participants supported by Ação Pela Paz did not reoffend, compared with national recidivism estimates of 57-64%. This is not a marginal improvement, but a structural break from the prevailing system performance.

Crucially, these results were treated as leverage, not an endpoint. The Institute invested deliberately in grants and pilot funding, data collection, evaluation, policy advocacy, and technical assistance, working directly with state justice secretariats, prison administrations, and judicial bodies.

As a result, practices initially supported with philanthropic resources were progressively absorbed into publicly funded programs in several states. Diversified philanthropy moved the needle twice: improving individual outcomes and reshaping how public institutions design and fund criminal justice policy in a system historically dominated by ideology rather than evidence.

Colombia: when celebrity becomes strategic capital

Founded by Colombian artist Shakira in 1997, Fundación Pies Descalzos works to expand access to quality education in highly vulnerable contexts, combining school construction, integrated service delivery, and strategic alliances, rather than relying solely on grants.

The Foundation has built and supported multiple public schools in underserved regions of Colombia, delivering education alongside nutrition and psychosocial support and reaching thousands of children. To scale beyond direct service delivery, the Foundation has partnered with large institutional actors, most notably Education Above All, to expand access to quality primary education for 34,000 children and reduce dropout risks for an additional 20,000 students.

As Shakira’s global visibility expanded, including during the heightened international exposure of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the Foundation leveraged that reach to build additional institutional partnerships in South Africa and Haiti, including with the Inter-American Development Bank.

More recently, the Foundation has deepened its collaboration with public authorities in Colombia by partnering directly with the Ministry of National Education to construct and renovate public schools, including a joint investment of nearly $800 thousand. It has also supported national enrollment campaigns, such as Todos al Cole, to strengthen access and retention in the public education system.

By combining social capital with a diversified strategy, Shakira enabled the Foundation to punch far above its financial weight, despite an annual budget of less than $400 thousand in 2024.

United States: turning backlogs into budget lines

This strategy is not limited to contexts of scarcity in Latin America. In the United States, the Joyful Heart Foundation, founded and publicly led by actress and advocate Mariska Hargitay, illustrates how a mid-sized, founder-driven organization can drive systemic change by combining multiple approaches around a single problem.

Joyful Heart is a 501(c)(3) public charity that reported total expenses near $2 million in 2024. Its central focus has been the long-neglected issue of untested rape kits in the criminal justice system, addressed through its flagship initiative, End The Backlog. The initiative was designed to reform how states manage forensic evidence, combining advocacy, policy strategy, and technical infrastructure.

Since its launch, the initiative has helped pass legislation in 30 states, allocating approximately $231 million to ending the backlog and supporting testing. In 2015, the Foundation played a key role in the creation of the federal Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) with then-Vice President Joe Biden. Since then, the initiative has enabled communities to inventory more than 183,000 previously untested kits and send over 90,000 for testing, generating nearly 15,700 CODIS hits (many linked to serial violent and sex offenders) and strengthening the national forensic response.

Crucially, Joyful Heart’s strategy extends beyond advocacy. The foundation also supports practice-level implementation through direct grantmaking programs. Its Heal the Healers Fund provides annual micro-grants of up to $5,000 to professionals and organizations working directly with survivors, funding training and small organizational improvements. Additional investments in learning cohorts and resource hubs help align frontline services with evolving policy standards.

This diversified approach helped turn a neglected issue into a recurring public responsibility by unlocking public funding and establishing durable systems.

From optimizing interventions to orchestrating change

So what does it actually take to maximize impact per dollar? The cases above suggest durable impact comes from adoption. It happens when donors fund not only what works, but what makes it stick — until solutions become politically feasible, institutionally adoptable, and socially legitimate. That’s when impact emerges: when philanthropists orchestrate complementary approaches around a problem.

In investing, diversification is common sense. In philanthropy, diversification of approaches is how constrained resources create outsized change. For donors operating under $10 million a year, this is not a constraint. It’s the strategy.

A simple rule of thumb: stop asking, “What’s the single best intervention?” and instead ask, “What would it take for the system to adopt this, and who will pay for that work?”

Diversification of approaches may be what finally reveals how results are achieved.

Promoting Philanthropy Endowment grows its assets and strengthens strategic initiatives

Publicado em 9 de setembro de 2026 por lxavier

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The Promoting Philanthropy Endowment (FFF), an IDIS initiative aimed at strengthening strategic philanthropy and the culture of giving in Brazil, closed 2025 with significant results. In its second year of operation, the Endowment reached BRL 9.9 million in assets, an increase of 39.7% over the previous year, driven by contributions from 146 donors and the matching mechanism established through philanthropist MacKenzie Scott’s gift to IDIS. The endowment currently has R$10.6 million in assets.

In 2025, the FFF allocated BRL 265,000 to strategic initiatives across three areas: advocacy, knowledge production, and stakeholder engagement. The resources supported efforts to strengthen the institutional environment for philanthropy in Brazil, produce evidence and knowledge, and mobilize stakeholders across the sector.

Initiatives supported by the Endowment included:

the Brazilian Endowment Coalition, which brings together more than 100 organizations advocating for a more favorable regulatory environment for endowments in Brazil;
Brazil Giving Research 2024, the country’s leading study on individual giving behavior;
the study Pathways to Broader and More Strategic Family Philanthropy in Brazil;
the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2025;
support for the transition of Discover Your Cause, a platform that helps individuals connect with social causes, to Benfeitoria;
Philanthropy Day at COP30, bringing philanthropy into discussions on the global climate agenda; and
support for the Movement for a Culture of Giving, a Brazilian network dedicated to strengthening the culture of giving in the country.

Launch event of the Brazil Giving Research 2024

A Permanent Endowment to Strengthen Philanthropy

The FFF was established as an endowment, providing a sustainable, long-term source of funding for initiatives that strengthen Brazil’s philanthropic ecosystem. Under this model, only real investment returns—those generated above inflation—can be used, preserving the Endowment’s principal over time.

In 2025, the Endowment generated BRL 1.15 million in real investment returns, which will be available for investment throughout 2026, ensuring the continuity of supported initiatives and expanding their potential impact.

Another development during the year was the expansion of contribution options. IDIS introduced the possibility of making a donation when registering for its institutional events, resulting in 121 new gifts throughout 2025.

Next Steps

The Endowment’s fundraising campaign remains active. The goal is to reach BRL 15 million in assets by the end of 2026 and BRL 25 million by 2029, expanding the FFF’s capacity to support strategic initiatives that advance philanthropy and the culture of giving in Brazil.

There is still BRL 2.9 million in matching funds available, meaning that new contributions to the Endowment can be matched through the mechanism established with MacKenzie Scott’s gift to IDIS. This represents an opportunity for donors to amplify the value of their contributions and help grow the Endowment’s long-term capacity to strengthen philanthropy in Brazil.

Every gift helps build a lasting endowment capable of generating resources for initiatives that drive social transformation and contribute to reducing inequalities in Brazil.

Learn more and donate to the Promoting Philanthropy Endowment.

Transforming Territories Program launches preventive emergency funds to strengthen local climate resilience

Publicado em 9 de setembro de 2026 por lxavier

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Still relatively unexplored in Brazil, the initiative strengthens the ability of local communities to prevent, prepare for, and respond to climate emergencies through community philanthropy. Four funds have already been established, with two more currently being developed.

Six community foundations and institutes across different regions of Brazil are receiving technical and financial support to create permanent, locally based mechanisms for climate emergency preparedness and prevention. The initiative, a pioneering approach in the Brazilian context, is part of IDIS’ Transforming Territories Program (Programa Transformando Territórios) and draws on the methodology and technical expertise of ICOM – Instituto Comunitário Grande Florianópolis. It is also supported through partnerships with the Mott Foundation, Movimento Bem Maior, and Fundação FEAC.

In the first phase, four community foundations and institutes—locally rooted philanthropic organizations that mobilize resources and connect local actors to address community priorities—completed the development of their funds. Each received BRL 50,000 (Brazilian reais) to develop strategies focused on risk management, prevention, and strengthening local resilience.

The participating organizations are Instituto Cacimba, based in São Miguel Paulista, a district on the eastern outskirts of the city of São Paulo; Associação Nossa Cidade, in the Greater Belo Horizonte metropolitan area, in the state of Minas Gerais; Instituto Comunitário Paraty, in Paraty, in the state of Rio de Janeiro; and Mundaú Mundo, in Maceió, the capital of the northeastern state of Alagoas.

Fundação Gerações, in the Greater Porto Alegre metropolitan area, in southern Brazil, and Fundo Comunitário Perifasul M’Boi Mirim, based in M’Boi Mirim, a district in the southern outskirts of São Paulo, are currently receiving technical assistance and are expected to complete the development of their funds soon. The funds are open to contributions from both individuals and organizations.

“People who live and work in these communities have firsthand knowledge of their risks, vulnerabilities, and strengths. Strengthening local organizations is therefore essential to developing prevention and preparedness strategies alongside communities themselves, before emergencies occur. Community foundations and institutes play a strategic role in this process by identifying risks, mobilizing resources, connecting different stakeholders, and strengthening communities’ ability to prevent, prepare for, and respond to crises in a coordinated and sustainable way,” says Rosana Ferraiuolo, Manager of the Transforming Territories Program at IDIS.

The resources support preventive measures designed to strengthen local capacity before extreme events escalate into crises that are far more difficult to manage. The participating communities share an important characteristic: they were already taking action or developing strategies to address emergencies and socio-environmental vulnerabilities but needed more structured mechanisms to respond to the growing impacts of climate change.

The funds are designed to help communities prepare for risks including floods, dam failures, illegal waste disposal, extreme rainfall, heat waves, and other climate-related events. Some of these risks are monitored through local networks of community-based climate observers, helping communities identify changing conditions and strengthen preparedness.

Individuals and organizations interested in contributing can donate directly to the participating community foundations and institutes through their respective websites.

An Innovative Model Inspired by International Experience

The Preventive Emergency Fund (Fundo Emergencial Preventivo, or FEP) model is considered innovative in Brazil because it uses place-based community philanthropy as the foundation for building long-term local resilience. The approach was inspired by experiences in countries including Romania and Chile, as well as the work of organizations such as the Center for Disaster Philanthropy.

In Brazil, the model also builds on ICOM’s experience in establishing, managing, and governing community and emergency funds. It combines local fundraising, community knowledge, and capacity building for grassroots and local organizations, creating infrastructure that can remain in place before, during, and after emergencies.

Rather than focusing solely on emergency response, the initiative seeks to build lasting local capacity to anticipate risks, mobilize resources, coordinate stakeholders, and respond effectively as climate-related crises become more frequent and complex.

“At first glance, a Preventive Emergency Fund may seem like just another funding mechanism. But its innovation lies in how it builds capacity before a crisis occurs. The FEP strengthens communities during periods of stability by investing in governance, coordination, local intelligence, and community mobilization. We are proud to share ICOM’s accumulated experience in community funds, emergency funds, and place-based development, helping other community foundations and institutes adapt this model to their own local realities,” says Mariana de Assis, Project Coordinator at ICOM.

ABOUT THE TRANSFORMING TERRITORIES PROGRAM

The Transforming Territories Program (Programa Transformando Territórios) is an initiative of IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, in partnership with the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, that supports the creation and strengthening of community foundations across Brazil.

The program seeks to strengthen locally led philanthropy by engaging donors and civil society, facilitating knowledge exchange, and providing technical support to organizations that mobilize local resources and respond to community priorities.

Learn more about the program and participating organizations at www.transformandoterritorios.org.br.

The next El Niño calls for less reaction and more planning

Publicado em 9 de setembro de 2026 por lxavier

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By Yasmim Araújo Lopes, Project Analyst at IDIS, and Marcelo Modesto, Project Manager at IDIS

Brazil still tends to treat extreme weather events as exceptions, responding only after their impacts are already being felt. This year, however, forecasts of a new El Niño offer an opportunity to change that pattern—to move from reacting to crises toward anticipating and preparing for them.

Climate monitoring institutions in Brazil and around the world already point to a high probability that El Niño will persist through April 2027, with conditions expected to strengthen throughout 2026 and a greater likelihood of a very strong episode between September and December. Against this backdrop, governments, social investors, and civil society organizations must begin incorporating climate risk into their strategies and planning.

seca

The heightened risks associated with El Niño, compounded by the effects of climate change that are already being felt, extend far beyond environmental concerns. They cut across virtually every social issue. Health, education, food security, livelihoods, social assistance, housing, and mobility can all be directly affected by heat waves, droughts, floods, and wildfires. Even organizations that do not work specifically on climate issues may face greater demand for their services, rising costs, and disruptions to their operations.

In this context, climate adaptation can no longer be seen solely as an environmental priority. It is increasingly a prerequisite for ensuring the continuity of public policies, social programs, and philanthropic and social investments. Protecting communities also means ensuring that organizations can continue delivering essential services and results precisely when they are needed most.

The challenge is even greater when we consider the capacity of Brazilian municipalities and communities to respond. Data from AdaptaBrasil, a national climate risk and adaptation platform developed by Brazil’s Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, show that 3,679 municipalities have low or very low adaptive capacity to cope with disasters associated with river flooding, flash floods, and urban flooding. In a country with more than 5,500 municipalities, this means that a substantial share of local governments face significant limitations in their ability to adapt to these risks. The figures make one thing clear: forecasting extreme events is not enough. Prevention requires practical measures, from strengthening local management and coordination with public authorities to investing in communities’ ability to prepare for and respond to crises.

This is where climate justice becomes tangible. It is not only about responding to disasters after they strike, but about creating the conditions for communities that are more exposed to climate risks and have fewer resources to cope with them to be better protected before impacts occur.

Preparation begins long before a cold front, flood, or heat wave arrives. It begins when organizations turn climate forecasts into practical questions for management and planning: What could change in the communities where we work? Which groups are most likely to be affected? Which activities may need to be adapted? What resources need to be in place before critical periods begin?

Asking these questions helps embed climate risk into everyday decision-making, making social programs and investments more resilient in the face of uncertainty.

It is equally important to recognize that El Niño will not affect every part of Brazil in the same way. Brazil’s continental scale and significant regional differences in climate mean that the same phenomenon can create very different risks across the country. Current projections point to reduced rainfall in the Amazon region and Brazil’s Northeast, higher temperatures across much of the country, potentially drier conditions in the Southeast and Central-West regions during the Southern Hemisphere spring, and heavier rainfall in Southern Brazil, increasing the risk of floods, waterlogging, and landslides.

Different risks require different responses, designed around the realities of each place. For Brazil, this makes locally led adaptation particularly important: local communities, civil society organizations, and knowledge must be at the center of climate adaptation strategies rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions.

For philanthropy and the broader social sector, this means reviewing programs and portfolios through a climate lens, developing continuity plans for essential services, investing proactively in the adaptation of facilities and community spaces, strengthening local cooperation networks, and designing more flexible funding mechanisms that can respond quickly as conditions change.

None of these measures can eliminate the possibility of disasters. But together, they can reduce harm, protect essential services, and strengthen communities’ capacity to respond. The sooner philanthropic funders, social investors, and civil society organizations incorporate climate risks into their decisions, the greater the opportunity to prevent human, social, and institutional losses.

The El Niño forecast for 2026 is more than a climate challenge. It is a test of our ability to learn from recent crises and act before they happen again.

The forecast is already available. So is the knowledge. What needs to change now is how we turn that information into planning and action—grounded in science, shaped by local realities, and centered on people, especially those most vulnerable to climate impacts.

Artificial Intelligence Program for the Third Sector brings together 30 organizations from 13 Brazilian States for a hackathon

Publicado em 15 de agosto de 2026 por mnegrao

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From July 22 to 24, 89 professionals from 30 civil society organizations gathered in São Paulo for an in-person hackathon to develop artificial intelligence solutions to address concrete challenges faced by the Third Sector. The event was part of IA.3 – Artificial Intelligence for the Third Sector, a capacity-building program that supports social purpose organizations in integrating AI into their work in a thoughtful, ethical, and strategic way.

Evento IA.3 em São Paulo, 2026. foto: André Porto

Over the three days, teams were challenged to turn the knowledge acquired during four months of training into practical solutions for their organizations. The proposed solutions covered strategic areas that are key to strengthening civil society organizations:

Smart fundraising: applying artificial intelligence to resource mobilization, engagement with prospective supporters, and financial sustainability;

Living institutional intelligence, memory, and knowledge: organizing, preserving, retrieving, and strategically using the information and knowledge produced by organizations;

Stakeholder engagement, services, and journeys: improving communication and interaction with beneficiaries, donors, partners, volunteers, and other stakeholders;

Streamlined operations: automating processes, integrating data, and improving workflows to increase organizational efficiency;

Monitoring, evaluation, accountability, learning, and reporting: using artificial intelligence to track results, analyze information, generate insights and learning, and communicate impact.

The selected organizations operate across 13 Brazilian states — Amazonas, Bahia, Ceará, Espírito Santo, Mato Grosso, Minas Gerais, Paraíba, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, Sergipe, and São Paulo — representing all five regions of the country.

The program also featured collaborative activities and sessions dedicated to assessment, ideation, development, and validation, with guidance from experts throughout the process. At the end of the hackathon, each group presented a proposed solution to the challenges it had identified, with the potential to be implemented and further developed within the participating organizations.

“This gathering marks an important transition in the organizations’ journey: we are moving from learning and experimentation to developing solutions that address concrete management and operational challenges. We want teams to gain the autonomy they need to integrate artificial intelligence strategically and ethically, in ways that are aligned with their missions. The diversity of causes, experiences, and regions represented at the hackathon also fosters collaboration and the development of solutions that can generate valuable insights and learning for the Third Sector as a whole,” says Henrique Barreto, IDIS Project Manager responsible for IA.3.

Following the hackathon, the 30 organizations will continue to receive support for six months through individualized mentoring. The goal is to support the implementation of the solutions developed, make any necessary adjustments, and help ensure that artificial intelligence is sustainably integrated into organizational strategies, teams, and processes.

IA.3 also includes an experimental impact evaluation that will compare the results of organizations participating in the first cohort with those of organizations that will undergo the training in 2027. In addition to measuring concrete results, the evaluation will inform a study featuring quantitative and qualitative data, as well as practical examples of how artificial intelligence can be applied in the Third Sector.

IA.3 – Artificial Intelligence for the Third Sector

Led by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, with support from Google.org and Canal SabIAr as technical partner, IA.3 aims to strengthen the institutional capacities of civil society organizations. Rather than simply encouraging the occasional use of AI tools, the program seeks to support the integration of artificial intelligence into organizations’ strategies, management processes, and institutional missions.

Equipe IA.3

The initiative was designed as a multi-stage capacity-building journey. Following an introductory webinar open to the public, 119 organizations joined the first cohort of the intensive training program in February 2026. Participants completed 30 hours of training over four months, combining live sessions, asynchronous content, and practical activities.

The 30 organizations that demonstrated the strongest engagement and performance during this stage were selected to participate in the in-person hackathon, where they could deepen their knowledge, exchange experiences, and develop solutions relevant to their organizations.

In February 2027, a new cohort of 114 organizations will begin the same journey.

What will it take to make the leap in impact finance?

Publicado em 14 de agosto de 2026 por lxavier

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Looking across Latin American markets, it is clear that Brazil has already mastered the vocabulary of impact finance and innovative financing: blended finance, matchfunding, venture philanthropy. But so far, this has not necessarily translated into the financial infrastructure needed to operate at the scale required to address social and environmental challenges in a country as large and complex as Brazil.

Take blended finance, for example. The model uses catalytic capital—public or philanthropic—to improve the risk-return profile of investments and attract private capital to areas that would otherwise struggle to mobilize funding at scale. According to Convergence, the global network for blended finance, this approach has already mobilized more than USD 270 billion in commitments worldwide. Yet its potential remains underused across the Global South, particularly in Brazil. This is not because capital is unavailable, but because many transactions require levels of coordination, legal certainty, risk appetite, and technical expertise that are still not widely available across the ecosystem.

Our bottleneck is not a lack of money. It is a lack of infrastructure and established practices. The field is caught in a paradox: it knows how to design sophisticated transactions but struggles to replicate them quickly. The real leap will come when we recognize that innovative finance is about more than creating new terminology or financial instruments.

We need to build the infrastructure that allows these financing models to work at scale, rather than treating every transaction as an exceptional case dependent on particular leaders, painstaking negotiations, and bespoke arrangements. We need standards, shared knowledge, and institutional capabilities that allow these models to be deployed more predictably.

The first key area is regulation. Hybrid structures require predictability and clear rules for guarantees, first-loss capital, funds combining philanthropic capital with other sources of finance, and outcomes-based financing mechanisms. In Brazil, for example, the country is beginning the implementation of a major reform of its consumption tax system in 2026. This transition creates an opportunity to calibrate incentives and establish clearer treatment for financing arrangements designed to advance public-interest goals.

The second area is cultural: patient capital. Philanthropy and private social investment—the term commonly used in Brazil for the strategic allocation of private philanthropic resources for public benefit— still often operate on short time horizons and with limited tolerance for risk. Financial innovation, however, requires the opposite: multi-year commitments, flexible funding, a willingness to finance organizational infrastructure—including teams, data, and evaluation—and an understanding that learning has a cost and that failure can be part of the process.

This is critical. Many initiatives designed to generate positive impact do not fail because their underlying solutions are weak, but because they lack financing suited to their stage of development. Promising initiatives may need support to refine their operating models, organize data, strengthen governance, measure results, or adapt their work to different local contexts. When philanthropy funds only the final outcome rather than the infrastructure that makes delivery possible, it constrains organizations’ ability to develop and reinforces a cycle of short-term, project-based funding that undermines long-term sustainability.

The third piece is coordination. Public, private, and philanthropic capital do come together today, but often without sufficient coordination. The result is fragmentation: multiple actors may fund initiatives in the same communities without shared governance, while others try to introduce market-based solutions before risks have been sufficiently reduced to attract commercial capital. This is where intermediaries become part of the financial infrastructure: they translate between sectors, manage projects, standardize due diligence, establish baseline metrics, and assemble blended and multi-capital structures efficiently.

Brazil already offers concrete examples of what can happen when these elements come together. Together for Health, an initiative of BNDES, Brazil’s national development bank, managed by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, uses a matching-funds model that combines public funding with non-repayable private contributions to strengthen Brazil’s Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde, or SUS), the country’s universal public healthcare system, in the North and Northeast regions.

Financial infrastructure can also operate at the global level. The Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF), launched at COP30, was designed with the ambition of mobilizing USD 125 billion, with at least 20% of its resources intended for Indigenous Peoples and local communities—a structure that combines scale, governance, and explicit allocation rules.

By recognizing standing tropical forests as assets that generate value for the global community and establishing payments linked to forest conservation, the mechanism highlights an important trend: the climate agenda will increasingly require financial architectures capable of bringing together different types of capital, protecting vulnerable communities and ecosystems, and distributing benefits more equitably.

The climate crisis makes this debate even more urgent. Extreme weather events, economic losses, water insecurity, health impacts, and growing pressure on vulnerable populations demonstrate the limits of fragmented responses. Prevention, adaptation, and resilience require financing before an emergency occurs, not only after disaster strikes. Philanthropy can play a central role by funding planning, local capacity, early-warning systems, nature-based solutions, and locally led governance arrangements that reduce future risks.

The question, then, should not be what the next financial instrument will be, but what infrastructure we need to build so that these instruments can become standard practice rather than exceptions. If we want to address the climate crisis, inequality, and limited state capacity in vulnerable communities, we need to start treating innovative financing as part of the essential infrastructure needed to address twenty-first-century public challenges.

This is an invitation to the field: direct a portion of capital not toward the final project itself, but toward the system that allows projects to exist and succeed. That means financing first-loss capital, guarantees, project preparation, data, and evaluation; supporting intermediary organizations; and, above all, combining different sources of capital through shared governance.

Instead of creating more brilliant pilots, we need to build a system that can replicate what works, learn from experience, and scale.

How Can Philanthropy Remain Relevant in a Rapidly Changing Landscape: Lessons from Brazilian Philanthropy

Publicado em 2 de julho de 2026 por mnegrao

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Article originally published in WINGS on June 30
By Luisa Lima, Communication and Knowledge Manager of IDIS

In a world increasingly shaped by climate disruption, technological transformation, political polarisation, and declining trust in institutions, philanthropy is being asked to rethink not only what it funds, but how it operates.

Across countries and contexts, social and environmental challenges are becoming more interconnected and more difficult to address through traditional approaches. The question facing philanthropy is no longer simply how to generate impact, but how to remain relevant in a rapidly changing landscape. A systemic approach, innovative financing mechanisms, new partnerships and bridge-building in a polarised society are a few ways philanthropy is adapting to fulfil its mission.

The latest edition of ‘Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy’, published by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, offers a glimpse into how the philanthropic ecosystem is responding to this moment. While Brazil’s reality is unique, many trends emerging across the sector speak to questions that resonate globally.

One of the most significant trends in the report is the growing recognition that climate change can not be treated as a standalone issue. For many years, environmental philanthropy occupied its own space, often separate from agendas such as health, education, economic inclusion, or democracy. Today, that distinction is becoming increasingly artificial. Across Brazil, extreme weather events are affecting public services, livelihoods, food security, and community resilience. Climate is no longer just another cause; it cuts across all issues we tackle and is central to resilience. Whatever the thematic focus, organisations must be prepared to handle stress, recover from crises, and adapt to changes without losing their core mission.

This reality is pushing philanthropic organisations to rethink their strategies. The Brazilian Philanthropy Commitment on Climate Change, the official Brazilian chapter of the global Philanthropy For Climate movement hosted and globally coordinated by WINGS and Philea, encourages funders of all causes to integrate climate considerations into governance, investment decisions, grantmaking, and organisational practices.

Alongside climate, another issue reshaping philanthropic practice is trust. Brazil Giving Research 2024 reveals that only 30% of Brazilians consider civil society organisations to be trustworthy. This challenge is not unique to Brazil. Around the world, declining confidence in institutions, combined with misinformation and political polarisation, is making it harder to build collective responses to shared problems. In response, philanthropic actors are increasingly investing in initiatives that strengthen dialogue and social cohesion. Brasil Fala, inspired by the international programme My Country Talks, connects people with opposing political views through structured conversations. Another local initiative, Sociedade Viva, seeks to improve public understanding of civil society organisations and their role in strengthening democracy. Besides having a website with curated content and data, they run campaigns for the general public and have a specific strategy to engage the media, including a practical guide for journalists on the third sector and a list of sources on multiple causes.

These efforts point towards a growing role for philanthropy as a bridge-builder. In divided societies, rebuilding trust may be just as important as funding programmes.

This conversation about trust naturally connects to another transformation underway – the redistribution of power. Across the philanthropic sector, communities are increasingly demanding a greater voice in decisions that affect their lives. In Brazil, this has contributed to the growth of community-led approaches that place local actors at the centre of funding and governance processes. Initiatives such as Casa Socio-Environmental Fund have incorporated Indigenous leaders, traditional communities, and grassroots organisations into decision-making structures, helping ensure that funding priorities reflect local realities rather than external assumptions. The lesson extends far beyond philanthropy: sustainable solutions are often stronger when communities are recognised not just as beneficiaries, but as partners.

Technology presents another important frontier, and artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly moved from a specialised topic to a central public debate. While AI offers enormous opportunities, it also raises concerns about bias, accountability, privacy, and unequal access. Research in Brazil found that only 6% of civil society organisations report using technology in advanced ways, revealing significant disparities in access and capacity. This challenge extends beyond Brazil. Around the world, many non-profits have fewer resources to invest in digital transformation and adopt new technologies. And this is how philanthropy can be a game-changer.

Recognising this challenge, initiatives such as IA.3 – Artificial Intelligence for the Third Sector, developed by IDIS with support from Google.org and technical partnership from Canal SabIAr, are working to expand access to AI while promoting responsible and ethical use. Rather than focusing solely on technological adoption, these efforts emphasise governance, inclusion, and public benefit.

Finally, conversations about the future are increasingly shaping philanthropic agendas. According to the UBS Global Wealth Report 2025, approximately USD 9 trillion is expected to be transferred between generations in Brazil over the coming decades. This has intensified discussions about legacy, planned giving, endowments, and stewardship ownership models that connect wealth to long-term social purposes.

These conversations reflect a broader shift. Philanthropy is becoming less focused on isolated acts of generosity and more concerned with how resources, values, and responsibilities can be sustained across generations.

Taken together, these developments reveal a philanthropic ecosystem in transition. Climate change cannot be ignored; trust is becoming a strategic asset; communities are demanding greater participation; technology is creating new opportunities and risks; and new forms of capital are emerging to address increasingly complex challenges. There is no single solution. Instead, resilience is emerging through many different actions, led by diverse actors responding to an increasingly complex, rapidly changing world.

Brazilian philanthropy is not offering a blueprint for the world. What it offers instead is a set of experiments born from a deeply unequal society confronting climate disruption, technological change, and democratic pressures simultaneously. The question for global philanthropy is not whether these approaches can be replicated elsewhere, but what they reveal about the kind of relationships, institutions, and systems philanthropy will need to build in the years ahead.

International ranking recognizes IDIS as a leader in social impact advisory in Brazil once again

Publicado em 18 de junho de 2026 por lxavier

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The French agency Leaders League, specialized in the creation of rankings and market research, has released its 2026 ranking of leading Brazilian organizations in corporate social responsability.

IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment was recognized once again as a leader in the ranking, securing 1st place among the best social impact consulting firms in Brazil. The recognition reinforces IDIS’ commitment to supporting social investors dedicated to generating positive social impact in the country.

In its advisory work, IDIS offers technical support to families, companies, institutes, foundations and civil society organizations that wish to start or enhance their social investment practices. The work is customized and participatory, supporting clients in areas such as strategic planning and governance; ESG agenda; endowment structuring and long-term financial sustainability strategies; project design, implementation and organizational capacity building; development of calls for proposals and portfolio management; and monitoring and evaluation.

“Being recognized once again by Leaders League reflects the consistency and quality of the work developed by IDIS alongside social investors across Brazil. Our advisory practice is guided by technical rigor, collaboration and a deep understanding of each client’s context, always aiming to strengthen strategies capable of generating lasting social impact,” says Marcos Alexandre Manoel, Project Director at IDIS.

The Leaders League ranking is based on a research process that includes data collection and analysis, combining different sources of information and evaluation criteria. In the 2026 edition, IDIS appears in the “Leader” category, alongside other organizations recognized for their work in corporate social responsibility and social impact advisory.

Paula Fabiani represents IDIS at CAF global meeting in Bulgaria

Publicado em 18 de junho de 2026 por lxavier

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Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, participated in the CAF International Network global meeting, held in Sofia, Bulgaria. The event brought together representatives from organizations in different countries to discuss ways to strengthen philanthropy and the culture of giving around the world.

IDIS has been part of the CAF International Network since 2005, serving as the representative of Charities Aid Foundation in Brazil. The network brings together independent organizations working locally in different countries, connected by a shared purpose: promoting generosity and increasing the impact of philanthropy.

The program also celebrated the 30th anniversary of BCause Foundation, the Bulgarian organization that is part of the network, and marked the launch of the World Giving Report 2026, a CAF publication that presents data on generosity across 105 countries. The report shows that 59% of the Brazilian population made some type of donation, and the respondents destined 0,9% of their income to these contributions.

Download the publication (available in English only):

“The exchanges promoted by CAF’s global network are essential for understanding the challenges of philanthropy in different contexts and identifying shared paths to expand generosity. The World Giving Report data shows that there is still significant room to strengthen the culture of giving in Brazil, and this requires trust, collaboration and collective action”, says Paula Fabiani.

IDIS’ participation in the meeting reinforces its commitment to knowledge production, international cooperation and the strengthening of a more favorable environment for private social investment and philanthropy in Brazil.

IDIS shares Brazilian experience in community philanthropy in Argentina

Publicado em 15 de junho de 2026 por lxavier

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Felipe Groba, Project Manager at IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment and a specialist in community philanthropy, visited Argentina at the invitation of the Laboratorio Público Privado, an initiative of Grupo de Fundaciones y Empresas (GDFE) and RIL Argentina – Red de Innovación Local. Over three days, Felipe contributed to a program designed to foster and accelerate Community Foundations (CFs) in Argentina, sharing lessons learned by IDIS through the Transforming Territories Program.

Created by IDIS in partnership with the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, Transforming Territories aims to foster the creation and strengthening of CFs in Brazil by engaging donors, civil society organizations, and local leaders, while also providing knowledge and technical support. The program currently brings together community philanthropy organizations from different regions of Brazil and has helped expand the national debate on community philanthropy.

“It was an honor to share the Brazilian experience with Argentine leaders interested in creating and strengthening their own community foundations. Over nearly six years, Transformando Territórios has accumulated important lessons on local mobilization, governance, listening to territories, and strengthening community organizations. Seeing this journey inspire initiatives in other Latin American countries is a source of great joy for IDIS,” says Felipe Groba.

The agenda began with a strategic alignment meeting with the teams of Laboratorio Público Privado and GDFE, focused on exchanging experiences about the development and maturity of the Transforming Territories Program in Brazil. Felipe then joined a welcome dinner with leaders from five Argentine regions interested in developing their own CFs.

On the second day, the IDIS Project Manager led a full-day workshop with these leaders, bringing together representatives from provinces, cities, and neighborhoods. The session addressed challenges and opportunities of the community foundation model in Brazil, as well as practical examples of organizations already acting as mobilizers, coordinators, and supporters of local initiatives in their territories.

To conclude the agenda, Felipe delivered a presentation to more than 30 GDFE members and guests at the office of Cervecería y Maltería Quilmes. In his remarks, he reinforced the role of CFs as essential infrastructure to advance local philanthropy and strengthen civil society organizations.

“What we saw in Argentina reinforces that Brazil and Argentina share challenges and opportunities. Community philanthropy can be a solid bridge for the sustainable development of territories in Latin America, because it brings together resources, leaders, and communities around locally built agendas,” he says.

IDIS’ participation in the agenda strengthens regional knowledge exchange and highlights the potential of Latin American cooperation to advance more participatory, sustainable development models that are deeply connected to local realities.

IDIS takes part in global think tank conference in Morocco

Publicado em 15 de junho de 2026 por lxavier

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From May 19 to 21, Guilherme Sylos, Director of Prospecting and Partnerships at IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, represented the organization at the 10th edition of the On Think Tanks Conference, held in Rabat, Morocco. The event brought together leaders, researchers, and policy professionals from different countries under the theme “Think tanks and trust”.

IDIS participated in the conference at the invitation of WINGS, a global network dedicated to strengthening philanthropy and philanthropy support ecosystems. During the event, Guilherme presented IDIS’ work on endowments in Brazil, highlighting the organization’s role in the Coalition for Philanthropic Endowments and its contribution to the approval of Law 13,800/19, the Brazilian legal framework that provides for the creation of endowments to raise, manage, and allocate private donations to public-interest causes and institutions.

“It was a very important opportunity to share the Brazilian experience and show how building an enabling environment for philanthropy requires coordination, persistence, and trust among different actors. The approval of Law 13,800/19 is the result of collective work and demonstrates the power of coalitions to advance structural agendas,” says Guilherme Sylos.

The session also featured Joyjayanti Chatterjee, who presented the “Playbook of Best Practices on the Enabling Environment for Philanthropy,” an initiative that brings together global case studies on regulatory environments and public policies that support the development of philanthropy. Evans Okinyi, from the East Africa Philanthropy Network in Kenya, also shared lessons on regulatory reforms in the philanthropic field, emphasizing the importance of coalitions, patience, and trust built over time.

In addition to the philanthropy agenda, Guilherme attended discussions on the use of artificial intelligence by think tanks in different regions of the world. For him, although AI has become an increasingly present tool, the distinctive value of these organizations remains human. “The use of AI is imminent, but the real value of think tanks lies in the knowledge that emerges when people with genuine interests face difficult problems together,” he says.

Another key point of reflection was the situation faced by civil society organizations in different countries of the Global South. In conversations with international representatives, Guilherme heard accounts of persecution and restrictions on the work of these organizations, in contexts that go beyond the fiscal and regulatory challenges known in Brazil.

IDIS’ presence at the conference reinforces its commitment to strengthening philanthropy, civil society, and knowledge production oriented toward impact, in dialogue with national and international networks.

Global generosity ranking reveals factors that drive giving across different countries

Publicado em 12 de junho de 2026 por lxavier

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New research from the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) reveals how people give to good causes in countries around the world and what influences people to be generous. As the leading global study on generosity and civil society, CAF’s World Giving Report uses insights from more than 60,000 people to explore giving across 105 countries.

Around the world, 61% of people donated last year, either directly to people in need, to charity, or for religious reasons. This has declined slightly from 64% in 2024. On average, people donated 1% of their income but levels vary. People in Africa give an average of 1.6% of their income, compared to 0.6% in Europe.

Nigeria is the world’s most generous country, where people give an average of 2.8% of their income to charities, for religious reasons or to people in need. The ten most generous countries are in Africa and Asia.

Download the publication (available in English only):

In Brazil, the results point to a stable scenario, accompanied by important changes in people’s motivations for giving. The percentage of people who made some type of donation in 2025 fell from 62% to 59%. Even so, donations to civil society organisations remained stable in the country, with 28% of people making a monetary donation to NGOs and 19% donating time through volunteering.

According to the survey, 61% of the global population made some type of donation over the past year, whether to civil society organisations, directly to people in socially vulnerable situations, or for religious reasons. On average, respondents destined 1% of their income to these contributions. In Brazil, the average was 0.9% of income.

The survey also indicates that adults aged 25 to 44 donate a proportionally larger share of their income than people over 55. Among the causes supported, religious initiatives rank first, receiving contributions from 31% of respondents. They are followed by initiatives focused on children and young people and on tackling poverty, both supported by 29% of respondents.

Community and trust strengthen the culture of giving

One of the report’s main findings is the relationship between the sense of belonging to one’s community and levels of giving. In countries where more than 80% of the population says they feel a strong connection to their local community, average donations reach 1.7% of income. In countries where less than half of the population shares this feeling, the average falls to 0.6%.

The Brazilian results are directly aligned with this finding. Among the reasons for giving, the share of people who say they contribute to support their local communities increased from 25% to 32%. There was also an increase in the percentage of those who understand giving as a collective duty, rising from 39% to 48% — a figure well above the global average (36%) and the South American average (17%).

The study also found that people tend to support mainly organisations working in their communities (56%) or nationally (55%), compared with organisations operating across several countries (22%).

In addition, factors such as transparency and clarity about the impact of donations appear among the main elements that could encourage greater participation from the population. Globally, 63% of respondents say that greater transparency about how organisations are managed would increase their willingness to donate, and 47% would like to better understand the results achieved by the initiatives they support. In Brazil, it was interesting to see that 27% of donors were influenced to give by media coverage, demonstrating the strength of this institution in driving generosity.

“These shifts point to a more conscious donor, one who understands their role in building collective solutions and is therefore also more demanding. Transparency regarding the use of resources and clarity about the impact generated emerge as essential conditions for increasing donations. Strengthening trust will be decisive in transforming intention into action and consolidating a more robust culture of giving in Brazil,” says Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

IDIS Project Manager Earns Certification in Impact Evaluation protocol from Social Value International; Check Out His Interview

Publicado em 22 de maio de 2026 por lxavier

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Daniel Barretti, Monitoring and Evaluation Manager at IDIS, has obtained the Practitioner Level 2 certification in the SROI (Social Return on Investment) methodology, offered by the British organization Social Value International (SVI). SVI is a global reference in the field and an organization of which IDIS is a network member. With this achievement, Barretti becomes the second Brazilian to reach this level of certification, joining Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, who until then was the only person in the country to hold this title.

SROI is an impact evaluation protocol that analyzes the relationship between the resources invested in a project or program and the social value generated for society by that initiative. The certification is granted by an organization that has been training professionals worldwide in applying the methodology for over 15 years.

“It was a challenging and highly enriching process that required dedication and technical depth in measuring social impact. Throughout the journey, I had the opportunity to broaden my perspective on value creation and to learn from different professionals. This achievement also reflects the support and collaboration of many people who were part of this path,” Daniel says.

According to Social Value International, social value means understanding the importance people place on changes in their well-being and using these insights to inform better decision-making. In this sense, the methodology helps strengthen evidence-based decision-making processes within social organizations.

In the center, Daniel Barretti, during discussion about Monitoring and Evaluation
Foto: Andre Porto

IDIS is currently a reference in the application of SROI in Brazil, with projects carried out for organizations such as Amigos do Bem, Instituto Ayrton Senna, Baccarelli Institute, Petrobras, and Vale.

Learn more about the Monitoring and Evaluation projects carried out by IDIS.

Read the full interview with Daniel Barretti published by Social Value International:

1 – Congratulations on achieving your Level 2: Social Value Practitioner certification! What does this milestone mean to you, and how does it feel tobe only the second person in Brazil to reach this level?

Obtaining L2 accreditation from SVI represents another step in a journey of continuous learning. For me, it means that my practice in monitoring and evaluating social projects has been improving. As for the fact that I am only the second Brazilian to hold this accreditation, I think it reflects the pioneering and enduring nature of the accumulated experience of IDIS (the organization I belong to) in the SROI protocol.

2 – As Monitoring and Evaluation Manager at IDIS, how does SROI fit into your day-to-day work, and what drew you to pursuing formal certification at this level?

Our current CEO, Paula Fabiani, was the first Brazilian certified at SVI Level 3. This brought IDIS a seal and significant expertise in applying the protocol in Brazil. Since then, IDIS has been carrying out a series of SROI assessments and is a national reference on the subject. That said, what motivated me to apply for SVI Level 2 was precisely the idea of continuing and updating our knowledge in applying SROI here in Brazil.

3 – You described the certification process as “challenging and highly enriching.” Can you walk us through what it involved; what were the most technically demanding aspects for you?

I believe that addressing the 8 principles of SROI requires careful and rigorous attention to technical and practical details, as well as transparency and clarity in reporting processes and their respective results. Engaging and collecting impact perceptions from indirect beneficiaries is an example of a challenge, as is making beneficiaries understand the difference between the attribution discount and the counterfactual. On the other hand, such difficulties reveal paths and possibilities for action and consequently lead us to improve our evaluations, making them increasingly participatory, accurate, and transparent.

4 – SROI requires a rigorous approach to quantifying social value, from mapping stakeholders to monetising outcomes. What did the certification teach you about applying these principles in the Brazilian social sector specifically?

As I mentioned, involving indirect beneficiaries is a major challenge, as they are largely distant from the intervention and consequently have a low perception of the impact related to it. However, the accreditation process taught me that it is necessary, first, to identify and test possibilities for mobilization and engagement, and second, to collect the information in the best possible way—but not to fail to collect it—and, most importantly, to describe the limitations and risks of each data collection and respective results analysis process. From a monetization perspective, mixing techniques such as using proxies and anchoring proves to be a powerful approach in terms of combining market value with the social perception of value. Even so, the accreditation process revealed to me that the monetization stage can be even more participatory by validating proxies with the beneficiary audience.

5 – IDIS has applied SROI with organisations including Amigos do Bem, Instituto Ayrton Senna, Petrobras, and Vale. How has your hands-on project experience informed your approach to the certification, and vice versa?

I submitted for accreditation an evaluation that we had recently carried out based on our prior experience with SROI. I understand that prior experience helped me in many ways, but it also brought some ingrained habits of understanding and execution that were sometimes misguided. Thus, the accreditation process certainly served to critically reflect on and update our practices in greater alignment with the SVI principles.

6 – You mentioned that this achievement reflects the support of many people along the way. Who were some of the key voices or collaborators, and what did learning alongside others from different professional backgrounds bring to the experience?

Well, today we are a large Monitoring and Evaluation team at IDIS, and we exchange a lot of ideas about our daily work practices. So, I would say that, to some extent, everyone on the team helped me through our meetings, debates, and reflections, even if they weren’t directly about my accreditation process. More directly, three people contributed greatly to this process: Ana Beatriz, who was the analyst most involved with me during the execution of that evaluation before I submitted it for accreditation; Denise Carvalho, Director of Monitoring and Evaluation at IDIS, who not only encouraged me but also helped me with the reflections and revisions I had to make during the accreditation process; and finally, Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, who was the biggest motivator for me to pursue this accreditation process and not give up after a first attempt.

7 – Social value measurement is still maturing as a discipline in Latin America. What do you see as the biggest barriers to wider social value and SROI adoption in Brazil, and what would you say to other practitioners considering certification?

To begin with, I would say that we still have a barrier when it comes to impact evaluations in general. Many organizations that claim to evaluate impact are actually monitoring process or product indicators, such as the number of participants. Impact evaluations, like SROI evaluation, require human, technical, and financial resources that are often not anticipated when planning initiatives. Finally, I think that Brazil’s large territorial size and consequently its great cultural and socioeconomic diversity bring an even greater challenge regarding monetization. In Brazil, for example, we do not have an official proxy bank like the one in the United Kingdom, and I believe such an effort would not be feasible precisely because of the great territorial differences within our country.

I highly recommend that other practitioners go through the certification process, as it enables you to reflect critically on your practices, on the best ways to adapt and conduct them to the Brazilian context, and finally, because I believe it is a rich approach that blends qualitative and quantitative data and allows us a very insightful reading of social initiatives from the perspective of those who actually experience these initiatives in practice.

8 – What’s next for you? Are there areas of social value practice you’re hoping to develop further, and what do you hope this achievement unlocks for IDIS and for the field?

Certainly. Two lessons from my accreditation process that I really want to put into practice are: first, a more qualified and robust process for listening to and engaging indirect beneficiaries; and second, making the evaluation even more participatory by validating partial results, as well as the choice of proxies, for example, also with the beneficiaries, in addition to validation with the organization executing the initiative.

Paula Fabiani named to the TIME100 Philanthropy 2026 list of the 100 most influential leaders in philanthropy

Publicado em 18 de maio de 2026 por lxavier

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TIME has named Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, to the second-annual TIME100 Philanthropy list recognizing singular figures who are shaping the future of giving. Paula is the first Brazilian person to be included on the list.

The recognition highlights her work in strengthening strategic philanthropy and the culture of giving in Brazil, as well as her contribution to connecting the country with international discussions on social investment and sustainable development.

According to Paula Fabiani, her inclusion in the TIME100 Philanthropy list reflects the collective progress of the field in Brazil. “I hope this recognition brings greater visibility to Brazilian philanthropy. In recent years, we have seen the field develop consistently, with stronger collaboration, greater professionalization, and a growing focus on sustainability through endowments. Brazil has a vibrant, creative civil society with a strong capacity for innovation, and it can play an increasingly leading role in global discussions on social impact and sustainable development.”

Economist graduated from the University of São Paulo, with an MBA from the Stern School of Business – New York University and a PhD in Business Administration from Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV-SP), Fabiani has built her professional trajectory by connecting academic knowledge, institutional engagement, and public advocacy in support of social impact. Author of two books on Endowments and a book on Early Childhood, Fabiani is also certified in the SROI (Social Return on Investment) impact assessment methodology by Social Value UK.

Paula Fabiani during TIME100 Philanthropy ceremony

At the helm of IDIS, she has directly contributed with technical support to hundreds of companies, families, foundations, and institutes, and led initiatives that became national benchmarks, such as the Brazil Giving Research, the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, and The Brazilian Endowment Coalition. Her work was instrumental in the approval of Law No. 13,800/2019, which regulates endowments in Brazil. This represents a structural milestone for strengthening philanthropy in the country and ever since the field has undergone significant expansion: more than 60 endowments have been created since 2019, and Brazil now has 128 mapped active endowments. In addition, she is one of the founders of Commitment 1%, an initiative by IDIS and MOL Institute that encourages companies of all sizes and sectors to donate at least 1% of their annual net profit to socio-environmental causes.

In 2024, when IDIS received a significant donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, it became possible to put into practice a long-standing ambition: the creation of an endowment dedicated to strengthening strategic philanthropy and the culture of giving. Paula Fabiani has been leading fundraising efforts for the Promoting Philanthropy Endowment, the first of its kind in Brazil, engaging local investors. Today, the fund’s assets exceed BRL 10 million and continue to grow.

Recognition by TIME magazine places Brazil on the global map of strategic philanthropy and highlights the maturity of an ecosystem that Fabiani helped build. In addition to leading IDIS, she also participates in national and international networks and advisory boards, including the UNICEF Advisory Council and the Steering Committee of the Global Philanthropy Forum, and she is co-founder of the Brazilian chapter of Catalyst Now.

IDIS team celebrating the achievement

Together for Health Program Launches 2025 Annual Activity Report

Publicado em 18 de maio de 2026 por lxavier

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Together for Health (Juntos pela Saúde, in Portuguese) is an initiative of the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES), managed by Institute for the Development of Social Investment (IDIS), developed in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil.

In 2025, the project reached a decisive stage of consolidation and implementation, operating in 64 municipalities in the North region, 298 municipalities in the Northeast region, and 12 projects simultaneously under execution.

The year also marks the achievement of 72.9 million BRL invested, 4,167 healthcare units benefited, 20,731 pieces of equipment distributed (including healthcare, IT, and furniture equipment), 17,545 direct beneficiaries, and 9.7 million indirect beneficiaries. By 2026, the program is expected to reach 113 million BRL in investments.

Download the 2025 Together For Health Annual Activity Report here (available only in Portuguese)

About the Projects Implemented in 2025

Among the projects currently underway, Tributaries expanded national prenatal care and hypertension control protocols to six municipalities in western Pará, including the development of clinical guidelines and the training of Primary Health Care (APS, in Portuguese) professionals. CARDIO strengthened cardiovascular care in municipalities across the states of Paraíba, Ceará, and Pará through the implementation of specialized care corners in 386 Basic Health Units (UBS, in Portuguese). Meanwhile, Social Protection Health Cycle supported public management and the qualification of APS teams in 32 municipalities across Pará and Maranhão, totaling 664 training sessions and engaging more than two thousand professionals.

On the technological innovation front, epCertify with Hiperdia Care Pathway implemented digital solutions for monitoring hypertension and diabetes in ten municipalities in northeastern Brazil, benefiting 88 UBS facilities and more than 198,000 people indirectly. Impulso Previne expanded the strategic use of public Primary Health Care data to 243 municipalities across 15 states, supporting active patient monitoring and improvements in healthcare indicators. Complementing this agenda, NoHarm used artificial intelligence to enhance patient safety by analyzing more than 28,000 prescriptions and strengthening clinical management in 341 UBS facilities, including in remote territories.

In the field of health surveillance, the AESOP – Alert-Early System of Outbreaks with Pandemic Potential advanced the epidemiological monitoring of respiratory diseases, reaching 479 municipalities in 2025, with plans to expand to more than 2,000 municipalities across 16 states. SUS in the Amazon established healthcare support hubs in riverside communities in the state of Amazonas, expanding access to in-person care, telemedicine, and dental services.

Focused on comprehensive care, Weaving Threads of Comprehensive Health Care in the Amazon strengthened maternal and child healthcare and the monitoring of chronic conditions in six municipalities in Pará, while the project United for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer expanded HPV vaccination coverage in ten municipalities in Ceará, achieving results above 90% in some of the territories served. Meanwhile, V.E.R. – Vision in Network promoted visual screenings and access to diagnosis in Serra Talhada, city in the state of Pernambuco, using telehealth services and eyeglass donations to reduce barriers to eye care access.

IDIS 2025 Retrospective: We Hoped and We Made It Happen!

Publicado em 11 de maio de 2026 por lxavier

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For more than two decades, we have chosen to believe — and act — so that philanthropy can be an active force in building a fairer and more supportive Brazil.

In 2025, this commitment remained strong. ‘Hope in action’ was the theme of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum and also the guiding thread behind our work. Faced with the complexity of the global polycrisis, it is easy to feel paralyzed, with the future obscured by uncertainty. But we cannot wait. It is time to act, collaborate, mobilize efforts, and believe that a more equitable world is possible. Philanthropy serves as a beacon, pointing toward new alternatives and possibilities, transforming hope into movement.

Whether through internal initiatives or collaborations with other organizations in the sector, collective action fueled our work based on the three pillars of knowledge generation, consulting, and impact projects. Along this path, we continued fulfilling our mission of inspiring, supporting, and expanding private social investment and its impact. These stories were brought together in our Activity Report, available only in brazilian portuguese.

However, here’s some of our key achievements throughout the year.

IDIS in Numbers

Our consulting team led 39 projects covering areas such as strategic planning, ESG agendas, endowment structuring and management, donation management, and impact assessment.

In the knowledge area, we continued our vocation of reflecting on trends, analyzing scenarios, and systematizing concepts and methodologies. We launched 50 new products, including publications, articles, technical notes, and events. We published the fifth edition of Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy, held another edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum — once again in a hybrid format — and produced the Brazil Giving Research 2024 and the study Paths Toward a Broader and More Strategic Action in Family Philanthropy in Brazil. We also supported the development, adaptation, and translation of studies from international partner organizations, such as CAF’s World Giving Report 2025. Altogether, our content received 62 thousand visits.

The impact projects implemented and led by IDIS continued to advance. Within the Transforming Territories program, the year in which the program celebrated its fifth anniversary was marked by progress in strengthening community foundations both individually and collectively, sharing knowledge, and expanding the model across Brazil. Currently, 15 participating organizations are active in ten Brazilian states. To give greater visibility to the concept of territorial community philanthropy and strengthen the institutional communication of community foundations, the Transforming Territories Web Series was produced, presenting 14 real stories of impact, belonging, and community leadership.

Throughout the year, The Brazilian Endowment Coalition, led by IDIS, continued its advocacy work, which included several strategic meetings and the submission of technical documents, ensuring the issue remained prioritized within the legislative agenda. Culture is one of the causes with a strong tradition of funding through endowments, and in 2025 the Ministry of Culture published Normative Instruction No. 26, regulating fundraising through the Cultural Incentive Law for the establishment or expansion of cultural endowments under Law No. 13,800/2019. In this area, we also launched another edition of the Endowment Performance Yearbook and continued updating the Endowment Monitor, tracking the development of the field in Brazil.

In 2025, the Together for Health, an initiative of the Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES) managed by IDIS, completed its portfolio, with two projects finalized and 12 simultaneously under implementation. Beyond structuring partnerships and selecting initiatives, the program focused efforts on sustaining execution and monitoring activities. By 2026, approximately BRL 113 million will be allocated through a matchfunding model (50% from partners and 50% from BNDES) to 14 projects aimed at supporting healthcare initiatives, especially primary care services, diagnostics, prevention, and screening.

The 1% Commitment, a partnership between IDIS and Instituto MOL, brings together companies of different sizes and sectors committed to voluntarily donating at least 1% of their annual net profit to causes of public interest. In just one and a half years, the initiative brought together 22 signatory companies committed to donating at least 1% of their net profits through financial resources, products, or pro bono expertise.

We also launched AI.3 – Artificial Intelligence for the Third Sector. Google.org, Google’s philanthropic arm, announced an investment dedicated to artificial intelligence training for the nonprofit sector. IDIS took the lead in implementing the program, reinforcing our commitment to accessible innovation aligned with the public interest. With technical partnership of Canal SabIAr, we designed a comprehensive AI training program for NGOs across Brazil, including mentorships for effective implementation of solutions and follow-up activities to identify the program’s impact.

Global Presence and Partnerships

We believe that diversity of opinions, backgrounds, life stories, and experiences enriches our work and increases our potential for impact. Therefore, in 2025, we continued celebrating diversity and investing in the power of partnerships.

We also participated in thematic networks, reflecting, co-creating, endorsing, and implementing initiatives. We contributed to advancing important agendas aimed at strengthening the democratic environment, private social investment, and the culture of giving in Brazil.

The People Behind IDIS

Those who make up IDIS are the ones who build our history every day. IDIS has grown not only in terms of projects, impact indicators, events, and partnerships, but also in people. We ended the year with 56 team members, which led to the creation of new people-management processes and policies.

With a hybrid work model, throughout the year we promoted a series of integration, training, and knowledge-sharing initiatives. Part of these actions was led by the Diversity Committee, composed of IDIS team members, which also coordinated the fifth edition of the IDIS Census.

Representatives from the Mott Foundation conduct in-person visits to follow progress of the Transforming Territories Program across three regions of Brazil

Publicado em 22 de abril de 2026 por ilopes

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From March 24 to April 1, representatives of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, one of the leading philanthropic foundations in the United States, visited Brazil to learn from and reconnect with community foundations in the cities of Porto Alegre, Maceió, Valinhos, Campinas, and São Paulo. The delegation included Neal Hegarty (Vice President – Programs), Nick Deychakiwsky (Senior Program Officer), Gabriella Abrego (Program Officer), Jenifer Veloso (Communications Officer), and Daniela Gomes (Program Officer), all from Mott Foundation.

The Transforming Territories Program, supported by the Mott Foundation and Movimento Bem Maior, works to foster and establish Community Foundations (CFs) and currently includes 14 participants. This model operates within defined geographic areas, mobilizing local resources and strengthening civil society organizations that develop solutions to social, environmental, and economic challenges within their own communities.

The agenda brought together eight community institutes and foundations, with activities held across five cities. These figures reflect the initiative’s significance, made even more meaningful by the direct impact of its actions in territories where each effort contributes substantially to local development.

Representatives from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, IDIS and Fundações Gerações in Porto Alegre

Fundação Gerações: the importance of local coordination

The visit began in Porto Alegre, where the delegation met with leaders from Fundação Gerações to learn about the organization’s strategy and initiatives, including the creation of the Fundo Porto de Todos – the first community fund in the state, established during the 2024 floods, which left 496 cities impacted, 150,000 people displaced, and even the state airport underwater for several days. The visit also included participation from ICOM, another program participant operating in Greater Florianópolis, in the neighboring state of Santa Catarina.

The group also witnessed firsthand the impact of projects supported by the foundation through the fund, such as the Cooperativa de Produtos Orgânicos Pão da Terra (loosely translated as Pão da Terra Organic Products Cooperative), which brings together associated families engaged in agroecological production of vegetables, baked goods, grains, and mushrooms. In the municipality of Canoas, they visited the NGO Chimarrão da Amizade, which promotes social inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities and their families, alongside meetings with philanthropists and local social ecosystem representatives.

The agenda also included meetings with companies and local philanthropists to explore opportunities for collaboration and community engagement with the foundation.

“Fundação Gerações is an excellent example of how a community foundation can mobilize local actors to strengthen civil society in a given territory. After the floods, it coordinated efforts with public authorities, companies, and civil society to respond to the emergency. This highlights the importance such organizations can have locally”, said Rosana Ferraiuolo, Program Manager of Transforming Territories at IDIS.

Delegation visiting the NGO Chimarrão da Amizade in the municipality of Canoas

“It was an honor to deepen our dialogue with the Mott Foundation team and demonstrate, in practice, how community philanthropy is strengthening initiatives across our region”, said Karine Ruy, Executive Director of Fundação Gerações.

Organic Products Cooperative in Eldorado do Sul (Porto Alegre)

Mundaú Mundo: community leadership and local articulation

The next stop was the city of Maceió, in the state of Alagoas. Mundaú Mundo, a community foundation focused on capacity building, empowerment, and strengthening organizations, promotes climate justice, local culture, and economic development. Representatives from the Instituto Comunitário de Sergipe (ICOSE), another program participant, also joined the visit.

The delegation participated in activities with supported projects, including the Cooperativa de Marisqueiras (loosely translated as Shellfish Gatherers’ Cooperative), which supports around 40 women shellfish gatherers in processing and marketing sururu from Lagoa Mundaú, improving income and working conditions. The agenda included meetings with current and potential corporate partners, as well as community leaders from various municipalities, highlighting the multi-stakeholder collaboration that defines CFs.

In the Vergel neighborhood—an area with high social vulnerability—the group visited an innovation lab currently under development within the community. In its initial phase, it will provide access to technology, including laptops and computer training courses, aiming to expand opportunities, strengthen digital skills, and support local development through technological inclusion.

Women from the shellfish gatherers’ cooperative in Maceió

“Our goal was to showcase the impact we generate in the territory through the organizations we directly support. It was a strategic agenda designed to present the breadth of our work and the reach of our initiatives, including field visits that demonstrate both the role of the Mott Foundation and the validation of this impact locally”, said Carlos Jorge da Silva Santos, President of Mundaú Mundo.

FEAV and Instituto Cacimba: education, culture, and entrepreneurship in urban and regional contexts

From the Northeast, the delegation traveled to the Southeast, arriving in the state of São Paulo. In Campinas, they met with leaders from Fundação FEAC, a former program participant that now serves as a supporter.

A key highlight in the region was the Casarão FEAV, a property donated by Fundação FEAC that enabled the organization to expand its activities in the neighboring city. The space hosts courses, training programs, and social initiatives, including SOS AVC Valinhos, now an independent organization. The history of the JovemTEC program was also presented, which prepares public school students for admission to technical schools and is now managed by the Círculo de Amigos do Patrulheiro (loosely translated as Patrol Members’ Circle of Friends).

In the capital, the visit included a meeting at IDIS, where, in addition to Mott, representatives from the Transforming Territories program supporter, Movimento Bem Maior, were present. The final destination was the east side of São Paulo. The visit to the Instituto Cacimba, in the São Miguel Paulista region, also included representatives from the Fundo Comunitário Perifasul M’Boi Mirim, another participant in the program, and program partners such as Comunitas, Instituto ACP, and the Fundação Tide Setubal.

Walking tour through the União de Vila Nova neighborhood (SP) during a visit to Instituto Cacimba

During a walking tour, the group visited Uni-Diversidade da Quebrada, a space where Instituto Cacimba, together with Instituto NUA, develops projects focused on strengthening the União de Vila Nova neighborhood through education and culture. Initiatives include painting workshops, marketing and sewing courses, and “Desnegócio,” a program that fosters local entrepreneurship. The team presented the organization’s trajectory, detailed its projects, and guided the group through the spaces where activities take place.

They also explored expansion areas such as Parque Jacuí, where future plans and ongoing challenges were discussed.

“Our work is rooted in the community’s own demands. The initiatives presented show how local strengthening, combined with strategic partnerships, can generate concrete opportunities for education, income, and territorial development,” said Hermes de Sousa, President of Instituto Cacimba.

“In Brazil, ICOM was the first community foundation, established in 2005. Today there are 14, many of them well-structured, with strong local knowledge and the ability to mobilize resources. Their development requires a gradual and careful process—more about support than external direction. I like to compare it to blowing on embers: too hard and the fire goes out; too softly and it won’t ignite,” said Nick Deychakiwsky, Senior Program Officer at the Mott Foundation.

The visit reaffirms the relevance of the Transforming Territories Program as a strategy for strengthening community philanthropy in Brazil. Throughout the meetings, the central role of local foundations and institutes became evident in mobilizing local resources, engaging leadership, and building solutions aligned with the realities of each territory. Moving forward, Transforming Territories continues to advance this work.

Register for online: Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2026

Publicado em 16 de abril de 2026 por ilopes

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The 15th edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum is already scheduled: on Thursday, August 27. For this year, the event brings as its central theme philanthropy “Between Essence and Reinvention.”

Once again, the event will take place in a hybrid format: in person for invited guests at Casa Melhoramentos, in São Paulo, and with a free live transmition on YouTube throughout the day.

At the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2026, we will explore the dynamic tension between permanence and transformation in philanthropy. In a context of accelerated social, political, technological, and climate changes, philanthropic actors are challenged to rethink their role in the world.

“Between Essence and Reinvention” positions philanthropy at a point of inflection. On one side lies its essence: ethical commitment, long-term vision, autonomy, the ability to take risks, and a focus on structural transformation. On the other side lies reinvention: digital disruption, new financial mechanisms, participatory governance, decolonial approaches, collaborative ecosystems, and adaptive strategies in the face of systemic crises. In this context, what must remain non-negotiable, and what needs to evolve for philanthropy to remain relevant and effective?

With the theme “BETWEEB ESSENCE AND REINVENTION”, the event will take place in person for invited guests and will be livestreamed for everyone interested in following the discussions.

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR THE LIVE STREAMING

Registration for in-person will be sent soon.

Confirmed Speakers

Among the confirmed speakers are Claudia Buzzette Calais (Fundação Bunge), Mario Haberfeld (Onçafari), Rafael Ribeiro (Formigas-de-Embaúba), Ricardo Levisky (Levisky Legado) and Vitor Hugo Neia (Fundação Grupo Volkswagen).

Organizers and Partners

The Brazilian Philanthropy Forum is an initiative of IDIS – Institue for the Development of Social Investment, Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), and Global Philanthropy Forum (GPF).

The Forum counts on Strategic Partner´s from Movimento Bem Maior and Fundação Bradesco; Gold Partner from RD Saúde; Silver Partner from Fundação Sicredi; Bronze Partner´s from Fundação ArcelorMittal, Fundação Grupo Volkswagen, Levisky Legado, and Instituto Sicoob; Institutional Partner´s from Fundo de Fomento à Filantropia and UNICEF. Media Partners are Alliance Magazine and Stanford Social Innovation Review Brasil.

Brazilian Philanthropy Forum

The Brazilian Philanthropy Forum offers a space for the philanthropic community to come together, exchange experiences, and learn from their peers, strengthening strategic philanthropy to promote the development of Brazilian society. The event has gathered more than 1500 participants among philanthropists, leaders, and national and international specialists. On IDIS’ YouTube channel, playlists are available with recordings from all previous editions. Check it out!

Architecting the Future: 2026 Global Philanthropy Forum reveals the pillars for the future

Publicado em 14 de abril de 2026 por lxavier

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By Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, and Denise Carvalho, Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, to Alliance Magazine

The Global Philanthropy Forum (GPF) 2026, held in San Francisco from March 18 to 20, served as a pivotal stage for reimagining the structural foundations of social investment. Representing IDIS, the Institute for the Development of Social Investment, Paula Fabiani, CEO, and Denise Carvalho, Director of Impact Assessment, led a prominent Brazilian delegation of 24 leaders. The 2026 edition was particularly significant as it marked the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Global Philanthropy Forum, a milestone that invited reflection on a quarter-century of advancing global philanthropy and fostering a community of purpose-driven leaders. As the organization that annually spearheads the Brazilian presence at the Forum, IDIS continues to bridge local innovations with global philanthropic trends, fostering a cross-border exchange of strategies and visions.

Under the evocative theme “Architecting the Future: Operating Systems for a New Era of Philanthropy,” the summit moved beyond the discussion of isolated projects. Instead, it focused on the “operating systems”—the underlying rules, incentives, and cultural norms—that dictate how capital is deployed for the public good. The consensus among participants was clear: the world is not merely navigating a period of transition, but a fundamental change of era, demanding a radical update to the philanthropic playbook.

One of the most profound discussions focused on philanthropy’s unique ability to act as “society’s risk capital.” In a landscape where governments are often constrained by political cycles and corporations by quarterly results, philanthropy remains the main sector with the flexibility to fund high-risk, high-leverage initiatives. This urgency is underscored by a gloomy global backdrop; the Forum took place amidst escalating international conflicts and humanitarian crises that have redefined the geopolitical landscape. These wars serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of our systems and the immediate need for philanthropy to address the human cost of global instability with moral consistency and a refusal to remain paralyzed by political finger-pointing. The Forum also highlighted that for philanthropy to be truly transformative, it must embrace its role at the “frontier”—backing unproven models, supporting institutional verification, and tackling systemic issues like climate stewardship and democratic resilience that traditional markets tend to avoid.

The Brazilian delegation observed a growing urgency for coordinated action. With rising global inequality and eroding trust in institutions, the philanthropic sector is being called upon to provide the collective vision that other sectors currently lack. This requires a shift from fragmented, individual efforts to a more integrated approach where philanthropic capital acts as a catalyst for broader systemic change. A strategic meeting was held to discuss, alongside key Latin American organizations—including partners from the CAF Global Alliance, and other regional representatives—the idea of creating a dedicated space to discuss philanthropy specifically within the Latin American context. This initiative aims to strengthen the regional voice and foster a collaborative ecosystem tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of the region.

The necessity to rethink the nature of capital was another relevant theme. The Forum proposed a paradigm shift: moving away from viewing wealth as a static “stock” to be guarded, toward seeing it as a flow that must serve life. This perspective challenges traditional endowment management and grantmaking cycles, suggesting that the true value of philanthropic capital lies in its movement and its ability to influence the much larger pools of private and corporate capital.

By repositioning wealth as a tool for impact rather than an end in itself, philanthropists can drive a more equitable distribution of resources. Discussions explored how philanthropic “risk-taking” can de-risk social investments for private investors, effectively pulling more capital toward solving the world’s most pressing challenges.

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) occupied a central place in the 2026 agenda. While AI offers unprecedented opportunities for the social sector—from data-driven impact assessment to personalized social services—it also poses significant risks of exacerbating existing inequalities. The Forum called for the establishment of “moral covenants” and robust regulatory frameworks to ensure that technology remains a force for good.

There is a recognized gap between the technological capabilities of the corporate world and the resources available to the social sector. To bridge this divide, philanthropy must invest in the digital infrastructure of civil society, ensuring that nonprofits are not just consumers of technology, but active participants in shaping an ethical, human-centered digital future.

Ultimately, the summit reinforced that the most critical component of any philanthropic “operating system” is not technical, but human. Trust, collaboration, and moral consistency were identified as the essential pillars for architecting this new era. The discussions underscored that the future of philanthropy cannot be built in isolation; it requires a commitment to listening to diverse voices and centering the experiences of frontline communities.

GPF has certainly tackled important subjects the concern global challenges, however, it lacked global and diverse points of view. Only a small number of speakers came from outside the United States, with the majority based in the U.S. While this imbalance is understandable—especially considering the current difficulties imposed the the US to access the country — it must also be said that it represented a missed opportunity. The event could have drawn more extensively on perspectives from different regions with long histories of operating under difficult conditions, offering valuable lessons and inspiration for developing new philanthropic models suited to both local and global contexts.

As we return with these insights, the mission is to translate such reflections into local action, strengthening the impact of philanthropy and social investment in Brazil. The challenges of our decade require leaderships that are as courageous as collaborative.

“We must be the leaders we want to see”.

Innovative Financing, Integration with Public Policies, and Technology Will Shape Brazilian Philanthropy in 2026, Says IDIS

Publicado em 16 de março de 2026 por lxavier

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Report highlights limited preventive action in the face of the climate crisis and the need for more structural strategies in Private Social Investment

The climate crisis, declining trust in institutions, and the need for more sophisticated financial models may redefine the priorities of Brazilian philanthropy. This is the conclusion of the report Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy 2026, released by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment. The study analyzes global and national trends that impact Private Social Investment and argues that the sector is at an inflection point: increasing resources alone is not enough; it is necessary to strengthen legitimacy, incorporate climate as a cross-cutting strategic criterion, and advance innovative financing mechanisms.

The study is structured around eight strategic perspectives that guide the analysis of the philanthropy landscape in Brazil in 2026: institutional trust and legitimacy, innovative financing, community participation, integration with public policies, artificial intelligence, legacy, the family philanthropy ecosystem, and—cutting across all of them—climate as a structuring criterion for strategic decision-making.

According to Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, “the climate crisis is an unavoidable issue for philanthropy and requires integration across work in multiple causes. In this sense, Brazilian philanthropy needs to reaffirm its purpose and strengthen a long-term vision, in dialogue with global movements and growing socio-environmental demands. This path involves the continuous review of practices and priorities, with the willingness to learn, adjust course, and adapt”.

Trust as a strategic asset

Data from the Edelman Trust Barometer 2026 indicate the rise of what has been called an “insular mindset”: 7 out of 10 people hesitate to trust those who think differently. In Brazil, the Brazil Giving Research 2024 reveals that only 30% of respondents perceive NGOs as trustworthy. In this context, the report highlights that transparency is necessary but not sufficient. Strengthening governance, responsible communication, and connections with society becomes essential to rebuild legitimacy.

Innovative financing and the regulatory environment

Instruments such as blended finance, hybrid funds, and matchfunding are gaining relevance, but still face regulatory barriers and low legal predictability. The gradual implementation of Brazil’s tax reform starting in 2026 may open opportunities to align incentives with the public role of philanthropy and expand the scale of innovative models.

This perspective is already materializing in initiatives such as Together for Health, from the The Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES), managed by IDIS. The initiative adopts a matchfunding model, combining public capital with non-repayable private resources to strengthen Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS) in the North and Northeast regions.

Access the full report and explore the details of all eight perspectives:

After COP30 in Brazil, Philanthropy must maintain its environmental commitment ahead of COP31

Publicado em 16 de março de 2026 por mnegrao

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By Luisa Lima, Communications and Knowledge Manager at IDIS, and Marcelo Modesto, ESG Manager at IDIS

Belém was both the setting and the message. Hosting the COP in the Amazon made the urgency of protecting forests, rivers, and territories tangible, while promoting the transition of the energy matrix and advancing the bioeconomy with social justice. There were countless lessons, examples, connections, demands that made themselves heard, and data that guide action.

Each Climate Conference is certainly a milestone, producing directions and resolutions. However, change only happens through concrete actions carried out between each cycle. In a year that begins with oil at the center of geopolitical movements, it is necessary to reaffirm the commitment to the climate, to the environment, and to our very condition for existence. And it is essential to act. Philanthropists and Social Investors: those of you who were in Belém and wrote long LinkedIn posts—have you included actions addressing our climate challenges in your plans? Have you considered how you will respond to emergencies, support communities so they become more resilient, and invest in adaptation?

IDIS works to strengthen strategic philanthropy and the culture of giving in Brazil. Although environment and climate are not our primary thematic focus, they are increasingly cross-cutting issues, especially in responses to emergencies, many of them resulting from extreme climate events.

During COP30, we formed a plural and supranational coalition — IDIS, Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), GIFE, Latimpacto, RD Saúde, SITAWI Finanças do Bem, and WINGS (Worldwide Initiatives for Grantmaking Support), with the collaboration of Catalyst 2030, Comunitas, and Rede Comuá — and promoted Philanthropy Day, bringing together the voices of communities, practical examples of ongoing initiatives, and reflections on how we can accelerate transformations.

Four lessons for Philanthropists and Social Investors

First, philanthropy has a catalytic role. Climate solutions require resources in the trillions, with governments and the private sector playing leading roles. Philanthropy, even though it contributes a smaller share of funding, is decisive because it can test models, take risks, respond quickly, and demonstrate pathways that can later be scaled by other actors. The sense of urgency must move us forward, and boldness is required.

In addition, philanthropy can reinforce the centrality of territories and climate justice. Solutions developed with communities—not only “for” them—were a consensus during the COP. This implies distributing power, treating “beneficiaries” as partners and co-creators, supporting local leaders, community foundations, and institutes, and strengthening capacities for disaster prevention and response.

Moving forward, Brazilian philanthropy has a long track record of collaborative and network-based action. This collective approach multiplies reach and influence. Platforms and alliances among social investors, civil society organizations, academia, and the private sector can accelerate learning, coordinate investments, and enable the systemic changes the world needs.

Finally, philanthropy can play a decisive role in advocacy. Organizations and social investors can use their influence to strengthen public debate, highlight evidence, and advance policies that unlock solutions in areas such as energy, adaptation, and bioeconomy. This includes monitoring agendas, proposing regulatory frameworks, and giving visibility to successful experiences.

If COP30 has placed a spotlight on the Amazon, it is up to philanthropy to keep the light on between one conference and the next. Our role is to create the conditions for solutions to emerge, mature, and scale—with boldness, partnership, and public commitment. This is how we can respond to the major climate challenges of our time.

Promoting Philanthropy Endowment Reaches BRL 10 Million in Assets

Publicado em 13 de março de 2026 por lxavier

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Created by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, the pioneering endowment dedicated to strengthening private social investment and the culture of giving in Brazil, the Promoting Philanthropy Endowment, has reached BRL 10 million in assets.

Since its launch in 2024, the endowment has attracted nearly one hundred donors, including philanthropists who have made significant contributions, such as the Pipponzi Family, Armínio Fraga, José Luiz Egydio Setúbal, Luis Stuhlberger, Milu Villela, Neca Setubal, Teresa Cristina, and Candido Bracher. The funds raised were doubled through a donation from American philanthropist Mackenzie Scott to IDIS, and there are still BRL 3.3 million available for matching contributions.

“We believe that philanthropy is a powerful tool for social development in our country. We know that much has been accomplished, but there is still much to be done, and IDIS plays a fundamental role in expanding awareness and maturity around this topic in Brazil, which is why it has our support,” say Ticiana and Edson Queiroz, also major donors to the endowment.

According to the 2024 Endowment Performance Yearbook, Brazilian endowments reached a record BRL 770.4 million raised in 2024, a volume 48.4% higher than the previous year. Allocations to causes also grew, with BRL 2.6 billion donated to causes of public interest. The results demonstrate that endowments are consolidating themselves as relevant instruments for the long-term financial sustainability of causes and organizations in the third sector.

Throughout 2025, returns from the Promoting Philanthropy Endowment enabled key initiatives related to knowledge production and field-building within the social impact sector. These included the Brazil Giving Research 2024, the study “Pathways for a broader and more strategic role of family philanthropy in Brazil”, Philanthropy Day at COP30, and advocacy initiatives supporting philanthropic endowments. They also supported projects developed in partnership with other organizations, such as the Discover your Cause and the Movement for a Giving Culture. For 2026, it is estimated that BRL 1 million will be available to support new projects.

Launch event of the Brazil Giving Research 2024

“For more than a decade, IDIS has been dedicated to strengthening endowments in Brazil. With the launch of the FFF, we adopted best practices in governance and investment to ensure long-term resources for strengthening strategic philanthropy and the culture of giving, offering our contribution to accelerate positive transformations and reduce inequalities in Brazil,” says Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS

Become a donor

Donations of any amount can be made directly on the Philanthropy Promotion Endowment webpage. For gifts of 50,000 USD or more, please contact comunicacao@idis.org.br

What is an endowment?

Endowments are structures created to provide financial sustainability for public or private nonprofit institutions and/or to support programs and projects of public interest. In general, donated funds remain invested in financial assets, and only the investment returns are used to finance initiatives supporting a given cause or to cover all or part of the operating costs of socio-environmental organizations. Establishing an endowment allows its founders to perpetuate a cause or an institution, leaving an important legacy for society.

Davos Focuses on AI and Leaves the Climate Crisis Aside

Publicado em 12 de março de 2026 por mnegrao

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by Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, to Folha de S. Paulo

The World Economic Forum, held annually in Davos, is one of the main barometers of the priorities guiding global political, economic, and business leaders. The meeting reveals, both through what is widely discussed and what is not, which agendas are shaping decisions that affect development, international stability, and the planet’s future.

In a context of simultaneous crises – climatic, social, economic, and geopolitical -, Davos offered an opportunity to observe how these dimensions are articulated within global discourse. Anxiety about the geopolitical future’s uncertainty was evident in conversations in cafés and during breaks between sessions.

Under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue”, the Swiss town hosted a program that included heads of state and government, as well as numerous parallel events promoted by countries, companies, banks, consultancies, multilateral organizations, and civil society groups, spaces where narratives, solutions, and priorities are actively contested.

It was in this environment that I participated in a series of debates and meetings, including gatherings such as Brazil House, where I met the renowned climatologist Carlos Nobre, who remains consistently clear about the prospects for the global climate agenda.

While artificial intelligence was treated as a structuring axis of the future economy – with debates about productivity, competitiveness, regulation, and ethics – it was frustrating to see the climate crisis appearing, when mentioned at all, disconnected from these same discussions. As if it were possible to think about innovation, growth, and prosperity without considering the environmental limits that shape any long-term development project.

At the same time, Davos also hosted important discussions on philanthropy, responsible investment, impact economy, and new financial arrangements. A question that ran through many of these conversations was how to attract more capital to initiatives that generate positive social and environmental impact.

Examples such as Patagonia’s governance model were cited as references in institutional innovation, capable of aligning mission, business, and impact consistently. There was also frequent discussion of the use of “blended” structures that combine philanthropic capital with resources aimed at financial return. A positive signal came from the United Kingdom, with the creation of the Impact Economy Office, a government department dedicated to structuring and strengthening the impact economy.

Another point of convergence in the discussions was the need for collaboration. Partnerships among governments, the private sector, and civil society organizations were presented not merely as desirable, but as mandatory, given the complexity of today’s challenges.

During my participation as a speaker at the parallel event “The Art of Creating Value,” I shared the case of Juntos pela Saúde, an initiative of BNDES (Brazil’s National Bank for Economic and Social Development) managed by IDIS (Institute for the Development of Social Investment). In partnership with private donors, the initiative allocates resources to strengthen Brazil’s public health system (SUS) in the country’s North and Northeast regions. I also presented evidence of the transformative power of philanthropic giving through the example of MacKenzie Scott, who has directed US$26 billion to 2,700 organizations around the world, 28 of them in Brazil.

The overall impression that remains is one of dissonance between the agendas dominating global discourse and the magnitude of the crises we face today. Davos points to trends, but it also exposes silences. The challenge lies in transforming technological innovation, financial instruments, and multilateral agreements into integrated responses capable of addressing simultaneously the climate crisis, social inequalities, and geopolitical instability.

For Brazil, this reflection takes on even greater significance. In the post-COP30 cycle, the country still has the opportunity to position itself at the center of global debates on climate, social justice, democracy, and biodiversity.

Davos shows that there are people, institutions, and leaders genuinely committed to the future of the planet, but it also makes clear that many challenges remain. Hope alone is not enough. It must translate into political, economic, and institutional choices that are consistent with the urgency of the crises we face.

Territories in Connection: Exchanges Strengthening Community Foundations in Brazil and Around the World

Publicado em 16 de dezembro de 2025 por lxavier

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It is within territories that knowledge takes shape and meaning: each experience, each encounter, and each collective gesture becomes living learning, which not only helps address local challenges but also inspires new ways of thinking and acting in the world. It is from this perspective that the Transforming Territories Program (TT) operates, strengthening and supporting territorial based Community Foundations (CFs) in Brazil. During the 2024–2025 program cycle, one of TT’s main strategies was to encourage exchanges among participating CFs and with international organizations. In total, six exchanges were carried out, involving 10 organizations and more than 30 leaders, across four countries and seven Brazilian states.

Among the program’s core premises is the creation of a fertile environment in which these organizations can thrive and learn continuously. Along this path, exchanges emerge as a powerful development strategy: by connecting different CFs in Brazil and around the world, they allow each organization to recognize—both in itself and in others—new ways to move forward, translating experiences into collective learning that resonates far beyond the territory visited. The practice of exchange expands repertoires, sparks reflection, and builds the trust necessary for learning to be transformed into concrete action, strengthening both the organizations and the ecosystem of place-based community philanthropy.

In 2025, the Transforming Territories Program participated in an exchange with the Comunidad de Organizaciones Solidarias (COS), supported by Connecting Communities in the Americas (CCA). In parallel, we accompanied several CFs in the program through exchange processes also made possible by CCA. This movement takes place at a particularly significant moment of strengthening exchanges and learning within the CF collective, which has become increasingly participatory through working groups and joint initiatives. In this context, in the first half of the year alone, we carried out four exchanges among organizations in the group and, in addition, promoted an in-person meeting of TT leaders at FEAV (Forum of Social Assistance Organizations of Valinhos), in Valinhos, in the interior of São Paulo—a symbolic milestone for the collective, as it took place in the territory of one of the CFs itself.

“Getting the house in order” – before and after the exchange

Much like preparing to welcome a cherished guest, exchanges prompt host organizations to revisit their own practices and rethink what they wish to share with others. This process of “getting the house in order” goes far beyond logistics: it becomes a moment of self-assessment, in which organizations revisit institutional presentations, organize documents and practices, and foster closer connections among territorial groups through new combinations and shared perspectives. These gestures, though seemingly simple, have deep and lasting effects: they strengthen institutional identity, expand community articulation, and generate learning that continues to reverberate even after visitors depart, contributing concretely to organizational development.

Cajamarca Community Foundation in Maceió

Carlos Jorge, president of Mundaú Mundo, took part in the CCA exchange with the Cajamarca Community Foundation in Peru, as well as in the visit to the Sergipe Community Institute (ICOSE), within the tripartite CF exchange supported by CCA. For him, these experiences lead organizations to reframe their role within the territory and awaken a renewed perspective on opportunities already present in the CF ecosystem. His account highlights how exchanges function as a strategic action for institutional strengthening: by practicing alterity, organizations not only learn from others but also see themselves more clearly, recognizing strengths and weaknesses and transforming this process into a driver of development.

“With the learning exchanges that CCA has been able to offer to 36 organizations in nine countries, we see a growing and interconnected ecosystem that can overcome challenges that working alone cannot. It has been incredible to hear the stories of how community leaders are inspiring one another and sharing strategies and tools so that each can work more effectively in their own territory,” comments Lisa Schalla, Project Director at Connecting Communities in the Americas.

When welcoming the Coterráneos program (Chile), the TT team carried out its first visit to the Perifasul M’Boi Community Fund following the approval of its new bylaws, which formalized the CF as an independent organization. This milestone was symbolic not only for the institutional achievement itself, but also for enabling Coterráneos to closely experience a São Paulo territory led by a newly established CF and to relate this experience to the process they are developing with CFs in Chile.

Coterráneos team visiting the Perifasul M’Boi Community Fund

Another significant milestone took place in Paraty, when the Paraty Community Institute (ICP) hosted the team from Fundación Punta de Mita. The visit coincided with the Festa do Divino, a celebration deeply rooted in local culture, and gained further strength by engaging the community in a traditional scavenger hunt, creating an authentic space for exchange between organizations and the community. For the newly formalized ICP, it was an opportunity to present itself to the city, affirm its local identity, and strengthen recognition among different social actors.

Territories and dialogues

The diversity of Latin America and the uniqueness of each CF led us to the expression: “if you’ve met one CF, you’ve met just one CF.” This variety is, in fact, a source of richness and strength. The multiplicity of histories and contexts, combined with shared challenges and similarities in political and economic environments, makes exchanges even more valuable. They celebrate territorial diversity while simultaneously building bridges of learning that inspire, bring realities closer together, and pave the way for the circulation of local knowledge and the creation of new social technologies.

“Participation by CFs in initiatives like this is essential. Often, day-to-day work places us in an intense rhythm that distances us from strategic thinking and genuine exchange. Exchanges like those promoted by CCA pull us out of this automatic mode and remind us that there is much to learn from those on the other side of the bridge. They renew us, challenge us, and connect us—as organizations and as people,” shared Cristine Lenz, from ICOSE.

As Cristine notes, stepping out of an accelerated pace and adopting a new perspective invites us to experience transformative learning, capable of impacting how organizations operate. In other territories, we encounter organizations that, even in different contexts, face similar dilemmas and inspire us to envision new solutions and reframe our own challenges.

Learning that transforms

We refer to exchanges as a methodology because they do not happen by chance: they are designed and practiced as a structured process that integrates preparation, experience, and systematization of learning. This intentionality transforms encounters into applied knowledge, strengthening both each organization individually and the CF ecosystem as a whole.

What this trajectory shows us is that exchanges have become consolidated as a strengthening strategy, as they bring together, in a single movement, the opportunity to look inward and to open up to the new. In preparing to host or visit another organization, CFs revisit practices, organize information, and reflect on their role in the territory. In contact with other realities, they exercise alterity, recognizing similarities and differences that inspire creative solutions adapted to each context.

ICOSE, FEAV, Mundaú, and FUNDAES teams in an exchange in Sergipe, where ICOSE is located

This process initiates cycles of continuous learning that extend beyond the moment of exchange and unfold into concrete changes in management and in relationships with the community. More than an activity, exchanges constitute a high-impact, low-cost organizational development pathway, capable of expanding repertoires, strengthening identities, and transforming territorial diversity into a source of collective learning power.

By promoting networked innovation, strengthening relationships, opening new perspectives, and stimulating the circulation of local knowledge, exchanges demonstrate that when territories learn together, they root knowledge, inspire innovation, and build the future that the Transforming Territories Program believes is possible.

By Carla Irrazabal and Rosana Ferraiuolo, analyst and program manager of the Transforming Territories Program

IDIS 2025 Retrospective: together we´ve put hope in action

Publicado em 16 de dezembro de 2025 por lxavier

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Every day, we work to promote a better future for this and for the next generations. We dream, plan, act, monitor, and evaluate impact, always focused on contributing to a fairer and more supportive world.

In 2025, this commitment remained strong. ‘Hope in action’ was the theme of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum and also the guiding thread that led our actions throughout the year. In face of the complexity of the global polycrisis, it is easy to feel paralyzed, with the future horizon obscured by uncertainty. But waiting is not an option. We must rekindle the flame of our resilient humanity, cultivate trust in solidarity and in ourselves. It is time to act, collaborate, mobilize forces, and believe that a more equitable world is possible. Philanthropy is a lighthouse, pointing the way to new alternatives and possibilities, transforming hope into movement.

In 2025, we moved forward with courage, always hoping in action.

IDIS Team at the 2025 end-of-year reunion

To hope in action is a about people!

With a team of 60 professionals, we provided consulting, produced knowledge, and implemented impact projects, working with networks and always believing on the plurality of perspectives. And so, we dreamed, planned, and wrote great stories in 2025.

The consulting team carried out 31 projects in areas such as strategic planning, ESG, endowments, donation management, and impact evaluation. We maintained an average client satisfaction score above 9, with a high recommendation rate, reflecting our commitment to quality.

Discover the stories here.

Impact projects expanded. With support from Google.org and technical partner Canal SabIAr, we launched IA.3 – Artificial Intelligence for the Third Sector. The first training action attracted more than one thousand organizations, and starting in 2026, we will offer an intensive program for 250 civil society organizations across Brazil, helping to generate positive examples of ethical and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in support of public-interest causes.

In partnership with Instituto MOL, we strengthened the Commitment 1%, a movement of companies leading the promotion of positive socio-environmental transformations. To date, there are 22 signatories, including those that already follow the practice and others committed to reaching the benchmark of donating 1% of net profit within two years. The initiative is supported by Cyrela, Instituto Cyrela, PwC, and RD Saúde, in addition to sector organizations that are part of the advisory committee and others that contribute their technical expertise.

Within the Transforming Territories program, dedicated to strengthening community foundations and institutes in Brazil, we launched the web series Transforming Territories – 14 real stories of local impact, led by Community Foundations and Institutes (CFIs) that connect leadership, resources, and knowledge to transform realities with consistency and purpose. In addition, once again, we brought together participants from all over the country in São Paulo for the Annual Meeting.

We continued with Together for Health, a partnership with BNDES that will allocate more than BRL 100 million over four years to strengthen public health in the North and Northeast regions. Through donations from BNDES and other supporters, the program will benefit 14 civil society organizations.

The advocacy agenda in Brazil also advanced. Leading the Brazilian Endowment Coalition, we achieved an important victory, ensuring that endowments receive appropriate tax treatment under the new Tax Reform system in Brasil. This achievement resulted from broad civil society mobilization, with leadership from the Coalition and the Alliance for Strengthening Civil Society. On another occasion, IDIS had the opportunity to promote dialogue with the Ministry of Culture and its leadership, Margareth Menezes, on philanthropic endowments, which resulted in the publication of Normative Instruction which allows the use of culture tax incentives for fundraising.

Throughout the year, we launched 50 knowledge products, including reports such as Perspectives on Philanthropy in Brazil; Pathways to a More Strategic and Broader Role for Brazilian Family Philanthropy; the fourth edition of the Endowment Performance Yearbook; and the fourth edition of the Brazil Giving Research, reaching more than 47,000 people. Highlights also include another edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, which once again gathered more than one thousand people in a hybrid format, and the debut of IDIS Coffee: Philanthropy in Debate with the launch of a Rockefeller Foundation-supported new study.

At COP30, together with other partners, we promoted Philanthropy Day, elevating the debate on the role of private social investment in climate finance. We were also present at local and global events such as the American Evaluation Conference (Kansas City, USA), GIFE Congress (Fortaleza, Brazil), FIFE (Curitiba, Brazil), Global Philanthropy Forum (San Francisco, USA), Latimpacto’s Impact Minds (Medellín, Colombia), Philea Forum (Lisbon, Portugal), and the International Seminar Science Meets Philanthropy (São Paulo, Brazil). Through the production and dissemination of content like this, we reach more people and advance our mission.

People and diversity

As projects grew, so did our team. People-related actions kept pace with this expansion: we carried out the third internship program, the second edition of the mentoring program, continued the leadership development program, and began its expansion to coordinators and analysts. We also continued strengthening the IDIS Alumni Network—made up of people who have worked with us and can continue contributing to our mission, even from a distance.

With four years of existence, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee promoted listening sessions, awareness actions, and the third edition of the IDIS Census. Among the results, the mapping identified that 58% of the team identify as white, 29% as Black, and 13% as Asian. Among the actions developed, highlights include a training session held during LGBTQIAP+ Pride Month, a conversation between Selma Moreira and the IDIS team, and the distribution of books addressing the topic.

Security for the future

Created by IDIS, the pioneering endowment fund dedicated to strengthening private social investment and the culture of giving in Brazil—the Promoting Philanthropy Endowment—reached BRL 10 million in assets.

Since its launch in 2024, the endowment has nearly one hundred donors, including philanthropists who made significant contributions, such as the Pipponzi Family, Armínio Fraga, José Luiz Egydio Setúbal, Luis Stuhlberger, Milu Villela, Neca Setubal, Teresa Cristina and Candido Bracher, and Ticiana and Edson Queiroz. The funds raised were doubled through a donation from American philanthropist MacKenzie Scott to IDIS, and there is still BRL 3.3 million available for matching.

Throughout 2025, the endowment returns enabled relevant knowledge production and articulation initiatives for the social impact sector, including the Brazil Giving Research 2024, the study Pathways to a Broader and More Strategic Role for Family Philanthropy in Brazil, Philanthropy Day at COP30, and advocacy actions for Philanthropic Endowments. Projects in partnership with other organizations were also supported, such as the Discover Your Cause platform and the Movement for a Culture of Giving. For 2026, an estimated BRL 1 million will be available for allocation to new projects.

Management, sustainability, and recognition

In line with IDIS’s growth, we implemented new operational and financial processes. Internal policies were also updated, and we carried out a consistent risk-mapping effort, resulting in the development of a matrix with guidelines for addressing each risk.

A structural change reflected our growth in recent years: the relocation of the IDIS office. We remained at the same address and floor, now with a structure that offers greater comfort and integration for the team.

It was an intense year, full of achievements and also recognition! Once again, we earned the Great Place to Work certification, reflecting our commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, transparent, and ethical work environment that values the well-being of employees, suppliers, and partners. For the sixth time, we were recognized as one of the 100 Best NGOs in Brazil, and also as the Best Philanthropy / CSO Support NGO of 2025.

Débora Acioly, Manager of Prospecting and Partnerships, at the 2025 Best NGOs awards ceremony.

Writing this retrospective is always moving and brings back many of the year’s key moments. It wasn’t easy—never is—but it was collective.

Dear IDIS community, board members, partners, supporters, family, and friends: thank you very much! Each of you is an important part of this journey.

May 2026 bring us even more hope, courage, and achievements.

With affection,

Paula Fabiani

Belém: A Historic Milestone for COP30 and Climate Action

Publicado em 11 de dezembro de 2025 por mnegrao

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This article was originally published in Alliance Magazine on January 9, 2025

By Luisa Lima, Head of Knowledge at IDIS; and Marijana Sevic, Head of CAF International

For those who doubted, Belém proved not only ready but the ideal place to host COP30 in Brazil. Nature is everywhere—living proof that the environment and climate matter. This event marked a historic milestone by bringing the global climate agenda to the heart of the Amazon, a region vital for climate solutions and biodiversity.

It was remarkable to witness the diversity of voices gathered from across the globe: government leaders, private sector executives, civil society representatives, social movements, youth groups, climate experts and non-experts, alongside the citizens of Belém, eager to follow the discussions.

Brazil’s leadership was pivotal—not only as host but as a nation on the frontlines of climate impacts, offering innovative models for adaptation, resilience, and inclusive development.

A Shared Commitment: Philanthropy and Climate Solutions

We came from different parts of the world—the UK and Brazil—with distinct COP experiences and perspectives. Yet, for one day, we joined forces to raise awareness of the role of philanthropy and the power of partnerships in climate financing and solutions.

CAF – Charities Aid Foundation and IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, together with Latimpacto, GIFE, Sitawi, and WINGS, supported by RD Saúde, convened Philanthropy Day – Innovative Partnerships for a Sustainable Future. This was a call to unite around our shared commitment to advancing global philanthropy and accelerating climate solutions that benefit all.

Why Philanthropy Matters in the Climate Agenda

The climate crisis is no longer a distant threat, it is a present reality, impacting communities globally and locally. In Brazil alone, the past year brought ten extreme climate events, including unprecedented floods, droughts, and fires. Progress cannot rely solely on international agreements or public policy. It demands coordinated action across all sectors, strategic resource mobilization, and ongoing collaboration.

Philanthropy and socio-environmental investors play a central role in this ecosystem. They bring agility, innovation, and a willingness to take risks where others may be constrained. Philanthropy seeds new solutions, empowers local leadership, and catalyses broader change. It directs capital to generate positive impact, fosters networks, and amplifies voices historically marginalised. Innovative blended finance models, though challenging, are yielding valuable insights and meaningful results.

Highlights from Philanthropy Day

The event reflected these priorities, inviting the public to engage, learn, and collaborate. It offered an immersion into new philanthropic dynamics accelerating climate solutions, presenting practical and inspiring experiences from diverse actors tackling environmental challenges. Strategies ranged from community adaptation and post-disaster reconstruction to structural actions addressing climate justice, socio-environmental development, technological innovation, energy transition, and equitable public policies.

Philanthropy is far from monolithic. It encompasses individual giving, family foundations, corporate social investment, community philanthropy, and impact capital—each bringing unique strengths, flexibility, and innovation. It builds networks and alliances that amplify impact and drive systemic change. Collaboration across local, national, and international stages unlocks catalytic funding, champions innovation, and builds resilient communities through inclusive, flexible, and sustainable models. As Brazilian philanthropist Ilana Minev said: “Everyone wins when we combine expertise and efforts.”

Voices from the Event

Introducing each panel, community leaders shared powerful statements. Rose Apurinã, Executive Vice-President of the Brazilian Indigenous Fund Podaali, reminded us: “It’s not just about financial resources. It’s about shifting power, building alliances, and amplifying local voices. Because the answer to the climate crisis is not one actor or one sector—it is all of us, together.”

In the closing session, Erika Miller, Head of Climate at WINGS, summarised: “Collaboration needs humility, long-term vision, transparency, and clear communication. It doesn’t happen by accident – it takes commitment and a real willingness to share space. Philanthropy is diverse, but at its core, it is a connector. And that connective tissue is exactly what our sector needs to leverage if we want to meet the scale of the climate crisis.”

Looking Ahead

The future of climate action depends on this collective effort. COP30 is a moment to reflect, connect, and commit—to harness the full potential of philanthropy in building a just, resilient, and sustainable future for all. Let us embrace the collective construction of new pathways, valuing courage, active listening, and diverse alliances.

Philanthropy has enormous potential to drive climate solutions, but only if we act together.

Brazilian delegation on the Global Philanthropy Forum 2026

Publicado em 11 de dezembro de 2025 por mnegrao

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Global Philanthropy Forum 2026 will take place from March 18-20 in San Francisco, California, and will once again include the longstanding Brazilian delegation organized and led by IDIS, strengthening connections among participants and deepening engagement with the global philanthropic community. Delegation participants also benefit from discounted event registration.

Each year, the Forum convenes more than 250 leaders, decision-makers, and changemakers from global philanthropy and related sectors, representing, according to the organizers, over US$480 billion in philanthropic assets. In 2026, attendees will gather for a programming under the theme “Architecting the Future: Operating Systems for a New Era of Philanthropy.”

In 2025, the Brazilian delegation played a prominent role in the Forum, with four speakers and 32 participants contributing actively and sharing diverse perspectives on Brazil’s philanthropic landscape. In the same spirit, many participants from the Global South, including India, Pakistan, Latin America, and African countries, shared optimistic reflections on building multi-stakeholder partnerships in contexts where uncertainty and adaptation have been part of daily life for decades.

Interested in joining the 2026 delegation?
Please get in touch with us at guilhermes@idis.org.br.

Endowment Performance Yearbook reports USD 473 million allocated to causes by Brazilian endowments in 2024

Publicado em 11 de dezembro de 2025 por lxavier

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Endowments are stronger than ever in Brazil. This is what the 2024 Endowment Performance Yearbook shows, launched by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment – and the Coalition for Philanthropic Endowments. With 92 participating funds and BRL 139 billion (approximately USD 25.3 billion) in total assets, the study indicates the consolidation of these structures as instruments of sustainability for causes and organizations in the country. Lawyer and professor Heleno Torres, Head of the Department of Economic, Financial and Tax Law at the University of São Paulo Law School, wrote the foreword.

“In a context of consolidation of endowment in Brazil, the Yearbook’s historical data series from 2019 offers parameters to support managers’ decision-making”, says Andrea Hanai, IDIS project manager.

From the management of an accumulated asset base, only the earnings are used to fund social, environmental, cultural, scientific, or educational projects, ensuring the continuity of initiatives. According to the Yearbook, the main cause supported by the Brazilian funds is education (63%), followed by research and knowledge (27%) and social assistance (23%).

The fourth edition of the publication presents information on cash flow, allocation, returns, responsible investment policy and governance. The figures show growth in fundraising (BRL 770 million – approximately USD 140 million, +48% vs. 2023), BRL 2.6 billion (approximately USD 473 million) allocated to causes, and advances in governance, with 77% of funds having formalized investment policies and 71% undergoing external audits.

However, challenges remain: more than 80% of endowments are concentrated in only two states of the country – São Paulo e Rio de Janeiro, and diversity in boards are quite low.

The fourth edition of the publication reinforces the importance of endowments as drivers of long-term impact and was made possible with Master support from Fundação Bradesco, Fundação Itaú and Movimento Bem Maior, as well as support from 1618 Investimentos, ASA – Associação Santo Agostinho, Fundação Grupo Volkswagen, Fundação José Luiz Setúbal, Fundação Maria Cecília Souto Vidigal, Mattos Filho, Pragma Gestão de Patrimônio and Wright Capital Wealth Management.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Drawing on information from 92 endowments, the 2024 Endowment Performance Yearbook presents a portrait of the field based on a significant sample that is 24% larger than in the previous edition. Bringing together a six-year historical data series (2019–2024), the survey confirms trends and introduces new insights.

With the aim of offering not only a snapshot of endowment funds in Brazil, but also a reference point for managers, in some cases the analyses were carried out by grouping endowments according to their asset size:

– Bracket 1: assets below BRL 10 million

– Bracket 2: assets from BRL 10 to 100 million

– Bracket 3: assets from BRL 100 to 500 million

– Bracket 4: assets above BRL 500 million

This executive summary presents the key highlights.

1. Sample Profile

– Record number of participants: 92 funds, representing 76% of the mapped universe (121 funds as of Dec 2024).

– Total assets of BRL 139 billion — almost 12 times the amount reported in the 2021 Yearbook.

– Prevalence of small and medium-sized funds (76% up to BRL 100 million).

– Strong geographic concentration: São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro host more than 80% of funds; no responses from the Northeast region.

– Majority established without an initial lump-sum contribution and with ongoing fundraising (46.7%).

– Accelerated expansion after Law 13.800, from 2019, with new funds concentrated in the smaller brackets.

– Low formal adherence to Law 13.800/19: only 22% are structured under this framework, despite the regulatory milestone already in place.

– Beneficiaries: 47% of funds support the managing institution itself; education is the predominant cause (63%).

– Still marginal participation in the budget of supported institutions — for most, the endowment accounts for less than 10% of revenues.

2. Cash Flow

– Fundraising on the rise: BRL 770.4 million in 2024 (+48% vs. 2023).

– Extreme concentration: Top 5 funds receive 79% of donations; Top 10, more than 91%.

– Average adjusted donation rate stable in 2024 (12.8%), but with strong disparities across brackets.

– Redemptions increasing: BRL 2.8 billion in 2024 (+33% vs. 2023).

– Most redemptions are directed to causes (92%), with only 8% covering overhead.

– Efficiency rises with size: larger funds direct more than 90% to causes; smaller funds, 44%.

– Average redemption rates are higher among smaller funds (19.8% mean, 4% median) — indicating some aggressive redemption behaviors.

– Redemption rules: predominance of “real-return” rules (45%); more sophisticated rules, such as the Yale model, are still incipient (5 funds).

– Compliance with redemption rules is high (87%), but 13% failed to comply, generally those using real-return rules.

3. Financial Management

– Return targets: only 47% of funds have explicit targets; the majority still operate without them.

– Benchmark basis: IPCA (consumer inflation index) predominates (71%), reflecting a focus on preserving the real value of assets.

– Achievement of targets is inconsistent: only 29% met their targets in 2024 (a sharp drop from 72% in 2023).

– Average return in 2024: 64% of CDI, equivalent to IPCA +2.19% (down from IPCA +6.17% in 2023).

– Bracket 1 posted the best performance (8.8%); Bracket 4, the worst (3.5%, below inflation).

– Portfolio allocation: predominance of fixed income not indexed to CDI (55%), low international diversification (less than 2%), and a near absence of impact investments.

– Larger funds are more sophisticated, but more exposed to volatility.

– Liquidity: 54% of assets can be converted within 30 days; larger funds lock in a higher share over longer horizons.

4. Responsible Investment

– Only 26% of funds have a fully implemented responsible investment policy.

– ESG integration is the most common practice (21 funds).

– Impact investing is nascent: 6 funds invest indirectly, 5 directly.

– Blended finance is almost non-existent (1 fund).

– Reasons for non-adoption: lack of priority (18 funds) and operational barriers (returns, lack of products, shortage of managers).

– Investment policy explicitly tied to the fund’s cause: only 13% apply such an approach; 23% report that there are no products aligned with their causes.

5. Governance

– Governance structures are widely adopted: Boards of Directors (73%), Investment Committees (67%), Audit Committees/Boards (65%).

– General assemblies: high average number of members (19.5), with the presence of independent members (84%), women (31%) and a still very low share of Black, Brown, and Indigenous people (PPI) (11%).

– Boards of Directors: strong independence (79%), women (37%), PPI (19%).

– Investment Committees: independence (78%), but low diversity (women 29%, PPI 31%).

– Audit Committees/Boards: independence (85%), women (44%), PPI (13%).

– Formalized investment policy in 77% of funds.

– Management models: predominance of in-house management (55%), while large funds rely more on external management (67%).

– External management is mostly non-discretionary (63%), keeping final decisions with the fund.

– External auditing is present in 70% of funds.

– Returns by management model: in 2024, in-house management outperformed external management (8.6% vs. 4.4%).

6. Outlook

– Fundraising in 2025: 51% expect an increase; optimism is concentrated among smaller funds.

– Disbursements in 2025: 44% expect to increase; 22% do not plan to disburse anything.

– Returns in 2025: 64% expect higher returns; only 1 fund forecasts a decline.

– Risk in 2025: 80% expect to maintain current risk levels; only 3% project an increase.

– Main challenges: fundraising (62%) is the dominant concern, especially for smaller funds. Larger funds are more concerned with returns, the regulatory environment, and strategic disbursements.

– Expectations vs. reality: the optimistic forecasts made in 2023 did not materialize in 2024.

– Fundraising: only 39% raised more or maintained levels, versus 78% expected.

– Disbursements: only 55% increased or maintained levels, versus 78% expected.

Download the full publication here (available in Portuguese only)

Note: values in US dollars were calculated using an approximate exchange rate of USD 1.00 = BRL 5.50 .

IDIS is recognized for the sixth time among the 100 Best NGOs in Brazil and best NGO in Philanthropy

Publicado em 10 de dezembro de 2025 por lxavier

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Good management practices are decisive for social organizations to expand the impact of the causes they champion. That is what the Best NGOs Award recognizes by assessing governance, transparency, financial sustainability, communication, and management among organizations across the country. IDIS received, for the third time, the title of Best NGO in Philanthropy, Volunteering, and Support for Civil Society Organizations in Brazil. In addition to the award in the special category, for the sixth year, IDIS was also recognized as one of the 100 best NGOs.

“Reaching the Best NGOs list for the sixth time is a milestone that reinforces our responsibility toward the philanthropy ecosystem in Brazil. Each recognition is an incentive for us to continue improving our management and delivering more impact through private social investment,” says Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

Throughout the year, IDIS has made a series of investments to strengthen the Institute and its projects. Highlights include ongoing monitoring of indicators, investment in management platforms, and increased training and development of the team. As a result, consulting projects have expanded with new clients, the relationships with existing partners got stronger; impact initiatives such as advocacy endowment funds, Transforming Territories, Together for Health, Commitment 1% and IA.3 – Artificial Intelligence for the Third Sector; have flourished; and important knowledge products were launched, such as Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy 2025, Pathways to more strategic and broader action in family philanthropy and the forth edition of the Brazil Giving Research.

“These achievements reflect the ongoing effort of our entire team, board members and partners. We have invested in processes, technology, indicator monitoring, and people development, always aligned with our mission to inspire, support, and expand private social investment and the positive change it generates,” adds Paula.

We congratulate all the organizations that, across different causes and territories, work every day for Brazil’s socioeconomic development and that were also recognized in this edition of the award.

The list of the 100 Best NGOs can be found on the official website of the Best NGOs Award (available only in Portuguese).

Rockefeller Foundation–supported study proposes transforming philanthropy in Latin America and the Caribbean

Publicado em 10 de dezembro de 2025 por lxavier

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A new report, “Five Agendas to Drive the Transformation of the Philanthropic Sector in Latin America and the Caribbean”, supported by the Rockefeller Foundation and produced by The Resource Foundation and Dalberg Advisors, examines the current role of philanthropy in the region and proposes an innovative, locally grounded approach to strengthen outcomes for Latin American and Caribbean communities and populations. The study concludes that philanthropic giving is far lower than in other parts of the world, even as needs continue to grow.

However, according to the authors, philanthropy in Latin America and the Caribbean has the potential to mobilize more than US$ 5 billion per year if just 1% of the region’s private wealth were activated—an amount comparable to the total international aid currently received.

The study also identifies key structural challenges facing the philanthropic sector, including a lack of strategic investment and public distrust, and calls on philanthropic leaders to rethink how resources are managed.

“Latin America and the Caribbean have enormous philanthropic potential that has yet to be activated. We need philanthropy that goes beyond temporary solutions and works toward structural, sustainable change,” said Lyana Latorre, Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean at the Rockefeller Foundation.

The study was presented during the first edition of “IDIS Coffee: Philanthropy in Debate”, a space designed for leaders of Brazilian organizations to engage in exchanges and reflections on how to make social investment more strategic, increasing resources and the capacity to engage across their value chain.

The first edition brought together around 35 leaders over the course of the morning, featuring presentations of studies and research, as well as debates.

Turning generosity into sustainable impact

The study shows that philanthropic culture in the region is less formalized than in other parts of the world. According to the World Giving Index, private donations represent only 0.2% to 0.3% of GDP- well below developed economies such as the United States (1.5%) or Canada (1%) and up to 50% lower than comparable economies such as Indonesia or South Africa (both around 0.4%).

According to the IDB, in its 2024 publication “The Complexities of Inequality in Latin America and the Caribbean,” the contrast is even greater when considering that the richest 10% earn 12 times more than the poorest 10%. The United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) notes that nearly 200 million people live in poverty and 70 million in extreme poverty, totaling about 270 million people. This structural inequality is worsened by the effects of climate change, as shown by the Climate Finance Vulnerability Index (CliF), which places eight countries in the region among the most vulnerable in the world, combining exposure to extreme events with low financial capacity.

A call to strengthen trust and unlock local resources

In this context, international aid has also been reduced drastically, as many countries are cutting their cooperation budgets. This poses a major challenge for Latin America and the Caribbean. In response, the new report highlights the urgent need to strengthen local and regional philanthropy, ensuring continuity for transformative initiatives that benefit communities.

Another major challenge is the lack of trust: according to Latinobarómetro, only 27% of Latin Americans trust NGOs, which limits people’s willingness to donate through formal channels. In addition, there is a strong presence of so-called “silent philanthropy” or invisible generosity, in which many people make direct donations to communities or local causes without these resources being recorded or strategically coordinated.

In contrast to this lack of trust, the region’s population demands concrete actions and tangible results. According to a recent Rockefeller Foundation survey, 78% of Latin Americans support international cooperation if it demonstrates effective results—a rate higher than the global average of 75%.

“Across the world, philanthropy plays a critical role in bringing allies together, mobilizing resources, and scaling solutions that improve people’s lives and well-being,” said Elizabeth Yee, Executive Vice President of Programs at the Rockefeller Foundation. “Building on our track record in the region, we are proud to stand alongside philanthropic organizations and other partners in Latin America and the Caribbean as they work to build a healthier, safer, and more prosperous future.”

Five agendas to transform philanthropy

Based on this diagnosis, the study proposes five strategic agendas to transform philanthropy in Latin America and the Caribbean. These agendas emerged from a broad listening process, designed with full awareness of the diversity and complexity of the region’s philanthropic ecosystem. More than 70 regional leaders—including philanthropic organizations, companies, civil society groups, and local actors—shared their perspectives through interviews and focus groups. The process was also informed by an analysis of more than 40 reports and studies, ensuring a solid and diverse evidence base.

1 – Radical collaboration: Promote a cultural shift in how organizations work together. Co-investment without co-creation is merely coordination, not genuine collaboration. The study proposes moving from isolated projects to sustained alliances, with shared governance structures, common goals, and joint evaluation mechanisms.

2 – Mobilizing local resources: Encourage a new generation of donors who see philanthropy as a tool for social transformation, not merely assistance. The challenge is to broaden funding sources, integrate new actors (families, entrepreneurs, and emerging companies), and create incentives—both governmental and market-based—that enable sustained participation. The current reality is not a lack of wealth, but an inability to activate it.

3 – Purpose-driven investment: Prioritize the quality of resources over volume. The study highlights the need to design more strategic investments that measure returns in terms of social impact, sustainability, and institutional strengthening—not only immediate outputs. When resources are treated as charity, reach is limited; when applied as social investment, they can drive systemic change.

4 – Local leadership: Treating communities solely as beneficiaries creates dependency. It is necessary to recognize communities’ knowledge and capacity to manage their own development, ensuring they are partners in the process. Philanthropic agendas must adapt to territorial realities, respect local knowledge, and build solutions aligned with the cultural, economic, and environmental contexts of each place.

5 – Professionalization of the sector: strengthening the philanthropic system should not be seen as an administrative expense. It is necessary to invest in modern infrastructure, with better information systems, specialized talent, and transparency and accountability mechanisms that increase the sector’s legitimacy and effectiveness.

“Philanthropy in Latin America and the Caribbean has enormous latent energy. The capital exists, and so does the talent. What we need now is to activate them with purpose, build trust, and show that investing in the region is not charity, but a development strategy,” said Beatriz Guillén, Executive Director of The Resource Foundation.

The gift of now: what Brazil teaches the world about philanthropy

Publicado em 6 de novembro de 2025 por lxavier

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This article was originally published in Alliance Magazine on November 5, 2025

By Alejandro Álvarez von Gustedt, VP of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors Europe

I was delighted to return to Sao Paulo to attend the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum that took place on October 1st. Organized by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment and the Global Philanthropy Forum, it offers an unique space for the philanthropic community to gather, exchange experiences and learn with their peers.

This year’s theme, ‘Hope in Action,’ could not have been more timely. It explored how philanthropy can respond to the immense social and environmental challenges confronting both Brazil and the world—challenges so complex that they can easily lead to inaction.

Alejandro speaking in the Brazilian Philathropy Forum. Photo: Caio Garça

It was an outstanding event – not only because it was extremely well-curated at a particularly beautiful venue, the Casa Melhoramentos, which unlike most conference venues features big open windows to the outside world, plenty of natural light and a much more conducive environment for connecting and letting serendipity work its magic.

The depth and breadth of the discussions was outstanding. Sessions covered a wide range of topics, and angles of how philanthropy can catalyze hope and real action at a time when the overwhelming scale of societal challenges can lead to paralysis. Each conversation and angles were so wide and rich that they cannot all be listed here but included such meaningful ones as the role of corporates, pathways for increasingly impactful family philanthropy, social entrepreneurship and the the role of new technologies.

I was honored to share the stage with such distinguished leaders such as Aron Zylberman, Executive Director of Cyrela Institute, and David Saad, President and Executive Director of Natura Institute, with the masterful moderation by Thais Nascimento, Program Coordinator at GIFE, a Brazilian association of institute, foundations and companies. Together, we explored how corporate philanthropy can be truly effective in catalyzing real, positive impact for a range of companies’ stakeholders, including the communities they operate within, and the companies and people involved in their value chains, and for society more broadly. Cyrela and Natura are in fact great examples of this.

Further, we also discussed how corporate philanthropy and social investment should be in the interest of any company as they ultimately not only generate social returns but also, as a result, tangible and intangible benefits for the companies themselves. A key takeaway from our conversation was the shared conviction is that true, sustainable impact begins with communities themselves. It requires recognizing their agency and engaging them with genuine deep listening and authentic collaboration.

On a purely personal level one of the most memorable moments for me was listening to and learning from Daniel Munduruku, from the Uka Institute – House of Ancestral Knowledge, who so beautifully and almost poetically represented the indigenous people’s non-linear concept of time. His reflection about their focus is on the ‘now’, their living the present as precisely that: a present, as in a gift.

As always when I visit Brazil, I walked away with a big positive energy boost caused by the contagious optimism, dynamism, can-do mindset, creativity and resourcefulness of the philanthropy and social impact community there. I know Brazilians tend to be very self-critical and to look to ‘the North’ for inspiration but I honestly believe that those of us in the North have a few things to learn from Brazil’s social innovators, especially in reminding us what it takes to put ‘Hope in Action.

Hope is collective: strengthening local infrastructure for resilient philanthropy

Publicado em 6 de novembro de 2025 por lxavier

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This article was originally published in Alliance Magazine on November 5, 2025

By Felipe Bogotá, executive director of TerritoriA

Hope is not a solitary feeling. It is something we build together. Across Latin America, philanthropy is discovering that resilience and transformation emerge not from isolated acts of generosity, but from collective infrastructures of trust. This spirit was palpable at the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2025, organized by IDIS, which brought together a vibrant network of leaders, organizations, and communities under one shared call: put hope into action.

During the Forum, I shared my views on how to enhance interdependence and resilience in philanthropy. My perspective draws inspiration from the growing Latin American movement of 56 Community Foundations, which by the end of 2024 had mobilized more than U$D 75 million to strengthen work in the field, catalyzing the local initiatives that have been caring, working, helping and dreaming their own territories.

Felipe Bogotá, executive director of TerritoriA, during the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum. Photo: Caio Garça

One of the moments that truly brought me hope was the Transforming Territories manifesto video, presented by the collective of Community Foundations participating in the homonymous project led by IDIS, with support from the Mott Foundation and Movimento Bem Maior. The web series features fourteen Community Foundations across Brazil that are strengthening local infrastructure in unique and inspiring ways—each one showing that hope becomes tangible when communities take the lead in shaping their own futures.

This movement reminds us that systemic transformation doesn’t start with scale; it starts with relationships, trust, and rootedness. Building on both the Forum’s discussions and the lessons emerging from these community foundations, I offer four concrete actions for the philanthropic ecosystem:

Fund local intermediaries as trust hubs
Frontline organizations and community-based groups need an anchor—a place where donations, knowledge, and coordination converge. Territorial Foundations are built for this. Multi-year, core support to these hubs creates continuity beyond project cycles.
Adopt participatory governance by default
Structures like community panels, citizen juries, or giving circles can determine where resources go—guided by clear criteria and community consent. When decisions are taken with people rather than for them, philanthropy evolves from charity into collaboration. Donors become partners, and beneficiaries become co-owners.
Shift to flexible and catalytic funding
Trust and resilience grow when we finance learning, adaptation, and risk. General operating support, matching pools, first-loss guarantees, and recoverable grants signal, “We’re with you as you figure it out,” not “Prove it before you start.”
Institutionalize learning loops
Share not only what succeeded but also what failed, what changed, and what’s next. When organizations narrate their uncertainty with rigor, they model honesty, and honesty is the soil of trust.

The invisible infrastructure that makes resilience possible

As a member of the Community Foundations movement in Colombia, an organization dedicated to philanthropic infrastructure at the local level, I am convinced that mechanisms, channels, and scenarios with incentives and enablers are essential for the future of philanthropy and well-being in local communities.

The region (I think the world too) will continue to face shocks—economic, climatic, political. Resilience is not only about having more money; it is about having trusted local institutions able to act quickly, include many, and stay accountable. When trust infrastructure is strong, a funding cut or a storm doesn’t paralyze the system; it re-routes energy through existing, legitimate channels.

Finally, I believe that philanthropy could contribute to big problems in the world; for example, the lack of trust that has been impacting our democratic systems. If we develop a strong philanthropic ecosystem we will inspire different actors to mobilize actions to enhance transparency, relationships and share vision. I am convinced that those things can help to build not only a more effective philanthropy, but also a more cohesive and hopeful society, committed to the common good.

When technology meets care: innovation, data, and social investment are redefining public health for a more equitable future

Publicado em 6 de novembro de 2025 por lxavier

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This article was originally published in Alliance Magazine on November 5, 2025

By João Abreu, co-founder and director of ImpulsoGov

In many parts of the world, technology has transformed the way societies deliver services, but not always the way they deliver care. In Brazil, where more than 170 million people depend on the public health system (SUS), representing about 80% of the population, the challenge goes beyond modernizing healthcare. It is about ensuring that innovation drives inclusion, transparency, and prevention.

Across the philanthropic landscape, a growing movement is exploring how data, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure can help bridge persistent inequalities in access to health. The focus is shifting from technology as an end in itself to technology as a tool for collective wellbeing. I had the opportunity to discuss this topic at the 2025 Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, during the panel ‘Innovation and Technology: From Dystopia to Utopia,’ moderated by Pedro Rossi, Vice President of The Global Fund for a New Economy, alongside Camila Valverde, Executive Director of the ArcelorMittal Foundation, and Eduardo Saron, President of the Itaú Foundation.

Plenary ‘Monitoring as a Bridge-Building Tool’, during the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum. Photo: Caio Garça

From treatment to prevention

Brazil’s universal health system is one of the world’s most ambitious public health systems, providing free, universal healthcare to a population larger than the UK and Germany combined. It has long been a symbol of public commitment to equality. Yet, the system still faces the challenge of reaching millions of citizens with timely, preventive care. Diseases that are potentially preventable continue to affect vulnerable populations who often lack consistent follow-up or early screening.

This is where philanthropy has begun to play a decisive role, financing innovation that helps the public sector act before crises emerge. By investing in digital tools, open data platforms, and local capacity building, philanthropic organizations are helping transform health management from reactive to preventive. Prevention, however, depends not only on medical capacity, but on information ecosystems that enable health teams to identify risks early and respond efficiently.

The use of digital tools in Brazil’s public health system is demonstrating that innovation, when designed for equity, can reach scale without sacrificing purpose. A notable example is Impulso Previne, a free, digital platform we developed at ImpulsoGov to support preventive health strategies within the SUS. It compiles and analyzes public data on essential indicators — from cancer screening to maternal health — and presents them in a simple, actionable format for local health professionals. By identifying which patients have overdue exams or unmonitored conditions, and linking them directly to responsible teams, the system helps municipalities act faster and more effectively. Also, the platform’s range of functionalities includes automating patient outreach with mobile reminders for check-ups and chronic disease follow-ups.

It has demonstrated measurable positive impacts on public health outcomes. According to an internal evaluation, within one year, thanks to the initiative, 1,540 women completed more than six prenatal consultations, 1,468 women received dental prenatal care, and 69,120 people received ongoing hypertension monitoring.

Impulso Previne is financed by the Together for Health program, part of the Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES) efforts and managed by the IDIS (Institute for the Development of Social Investment). The projects are financed through a matchfunding model with BNDES. Impulso Previne, in particular, is co-financed by Umane and it was previously by Dynamo Institute.

The broader role of philanthropy

For Brazil’s philanthropic sector, innovation in health is not merely a matter of efficiency; it is an ethical choice. Supporting preventive health technologies offers one of the most direct ways to reduce inequality, particularly for people who are disproportionately affected by systemic barriers to care.

This concept was also emphasized during the 2025 Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, organized by IDIS, which fostered reflections and dialogue on how philanthropy can act as a catalyst for meaningful change in times of crisis, reinforcing the urgency of turning hope into action. Participants discussed topics such as climate change and its social impacts, the role of companies in transformation, technological challenges and innovations in the social sector, and the importance of collective resilience and interdependence to design a fairer future.

The panel ‘Monitoring as a Bridge-Building Tool,’ featuring Ana Fontes, Founder of Rede Mulher Empreendedora (RME) and Instituto RME; Jessie Krafft, CEO of CAF America; and Leticia Born, Associate Director for Global and Latin America at Co-Impact, and moderated by Wesley Matheus, Secretary for Monitoring and Evaluation of Public Policies and Economic Affairs at Brazil’s Ministry of Planning and Budget, brought valuable reflections on the importance of conducting impact monitoring while maintaining a balance that enables funding mechanisms to foster autonomy and trust among implementing organizations.

One of the topics discussed was the relevance of unrestricted funding, which is not limited to the delivery of specific project outcomes but can instead support institutional development, research, and innovation. In addition, participants emphasized the importance of collaboration between different organizations and funders working toward shared goals, and the need to view philanthropy not only through a short-term lens but also as a driver of systemic change, grounded in trust and transparency.

In the context of healthcare, the experiences emerging from Brazil show that technology — when combined with collaboration, trust, and a preventive mindset — can truly drive transformation. Philanthropy plays a vital role in ensuring that innovation serves people first, helping build systems that are not only smarter, but fairer and more humane.

Hope is not illusion, it is strategy

Publicado em 6 de novembro de 2025 por lxavier

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This article was originally published in Alliance Magazine on November 5, 2025

By Fátima Lima, Sustainability Director at MAPFRE and Representative of Fundación MAPFRE in Brazil

There are moments in one’s professional journey that touch us more deeply, awakening not only our technical gaze but also the human sense of the mission we carry. Being present at the 14th edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, promoted by IDIS, was precisely that: a passage. More than an institutional participation, my presence there, representing Fundación MAPFRE, was the living expression of a commitment that, for 50 years, has transcended discourse and materialized into concrete actions that create lasting social impact.

It was an atmosphere of listening, courage, and collective willingness to face the challenges of our time. The theme chosen for this year — “Hope in Action” seemed to echo in every word, gesture, and exchange that took place. But this verb was not conjugated in the future tense; it was lived in the present. The ‘hope in action’ we spoke of at the Forum is daily action, movement, a political and ethical choice not to conform.

As the representative of Fundación MAPFRE in Brazil and a guest on the panel ‘Companies Sowing Transformation’, I had the privilege of sharing our vision of Fundación MAPFRE’s role — founded by MAPFRE and celebrating its 50th anniversary this year — in building long-term social impact through a consistent global strategy adapted to local realities.

The IDIS Forum is a convergence point for worlds that often operate in silos: the corporate sector, civil society, traditional philanthropy, and new forms of social investment. Listening to Indigenous writer Daniel Munduruku in the opening session reminded me that time is not a straight line — it is ancestry and also seed. And that, in order to hope in action genuinely, we must recognize our history and decide with whom we truly wish to walk.

Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2025 during the panel Companies Sowing Transformation. Photo: Andre Porto

A growing trend in philanthropy continues to move me deeply whenever it is publicly voiced: the shift from a logic of charity to a logic of justice. Philanthropy is maturing as it recognises that donating is not enough — structures must be transformed. Intervention alone is insufficient — we must listen. Helping is not enough — we must walk alongside.

On our panel, together with colleagues from Fundação Bradesco, Fundação Sicredi, and L’Oréal, we discussed what it means to be a company that sows. Sowing requires time, patience, and a long-term vision. At Fundación MAPFRE, we believe that investing in social impact also means investing in our own organizational culture. Projects that promote education, inclusion, and safety are not only beneficial for the community — they are transformative for everyone involved, driven by our Corporate Volunteering Program. Engaged people transform environments, and healthy environments generate exponential impact.

One statement that stayed with me, made by a panelist on climate change, was: ‘Philanthropy must stop being reactive and become preventive. We cannot wait for a disaster to act.’ The climate crisis and the social inequality we face demand that we be more than donors — we must be allies, co-creators, co-responsible agents.

This perspective of generating truly lasting social impact, especially in crisis contexts, reflects our purpose of acting with empathy and responsibility. In the face of major climate disasters, such as the one that struck Rio Grande do Sul, we mobilized efforts to support those most in need — donating more than R$ 1.6 million to affected families. This swift response demonstrates the importance of philanthropy as a driving force for social transformation and community rebuilding in times of adversity.

Looking out over the auditorium filled with diverse leaders — from corporate institutes to grassroots organizations — I realized that an important maturation is taking place in Brazil’s social sector. We are indeed acknowledging that real impact requires collaboration, humility to recognise that no one transforms anything alone, and courage to keep turning hope into action as a daily practice, even when the world outside challenges us constantly.

This month, Fundación MAPFRE is also honoring maestro João Carlos Martins with the Lifetime Achievement Award in Madrid — recognising not only his musical genius but also his tireless dedication to social projects through the Bachiana Foundation. His life journey embodies values that inspire us: courage, resilience, and a deep belief in the transformative power of art as a path toward a more just and humane society.

Finally, I see that Fundación MAPFRE’s support of this powerful gathering reflects much of who we are. After all, we are present where dialogue happens. We stand alongside those who build bridges. We believe that philanthropy cannot be reduced to numbers — it must embody listening and connection. It must inspire and be inspired.

I carry with me stories of transformation, reflections that continue to resonate, and, above all, the certainty that hope is not illusion — it is strategy. When we sow together, the impossible becomes the horizon. And may we all continue to ‘Hope in action’.

To leave your comfort zone, act with local listening

Publicado em 6 de novembro de 2025 por lxavier

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This article was originally published in Alliance Magazine on November 5, 2025

By Carola Matarazzo, CEO of Movimento Bem Maior

At the 2025 Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, the theme wasn’t centered on metrics, innovation, or scale, though all of these remain relevant. It was built around a term: hope in action. Not a noun, but a verb. Not a feeling, but a movement. In the spirit of past themes like collaboration and boldness, this year took a step further into action, choosing a verb with deep Brazilian roots and layered meaning.

In Portuguese, esperança means “hope,” but esperançar, a term revitalized by educator, writer and theologian Rubem Alves and widely embraced in the education and social fields, means to hope by doing: to choose, to act, to move toward something better. It’s hope with intention. Hope in motion.

In many ways, esperançar was an invitation to shift our posture. To act differently. Because to truly leave your comfort zone, you don’t need to cross physical borders, you need to cross internal ones: of control, detachment and certainty. And that shift begins, always, by listening.

Carola Matarazzo during the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2025. Photo: Andre Porto

In English, “hope” is already a verb. But in Portuguese, this transformation from noun to action carries symbolic weight. It signals a move from intention to commitment. It reminds us that, especially in a country like Brazil, where complexity is structural and inequality historical, to hope is to act. And, as Indigenous leader Daniel Munduruku reminded us during the event: ancestrality is not the past, it is the present.

For those of us working in philanthropy, this shift is urgent. Because comfort in philanthropy doesn’t stem only from where we sit, but from how we act.

Many of us operate with good intentions but outdated logics. We hold onto centralized decisions, standardized metrics, universal solutions. And while we speak of transformation, we often cling to control. Strategy without listening becomes imposition. Measurement without learning becomes vanity. And donating, without acknowledging and believing it is a social movement, becomes maintenance of the status quo.

What I witnessed at the Forum, in conversations, silences, moments of shared discomfort, was a growing collective awareness: to truly leave our comfort zone, we must start by listening. And not globally. Locally.

Listening locally means recognizing the power of those already doing the work, often far from the spotlight. It means honoring the legitimacy of local philanthropists, leaders who live the realities we try to “impact.” These are the people practicing what some call acupuncture philanthropy: identifying key pressure points in their communities and activating change with precision, trust, and deep relational intelligence.

The Brazilian philanthropic field is slowly, but steadily, embracing this logic. Moving from speaking for to building with. From delivering programmes to redistributing power. From occupying space to cultivating partnership. The territory, once seen merely as a beneficiary, is finally being acknowledged as a source of strategy, innovation, and leadership.

At Movimento Bem Maior, this reflection is at the heart of our movement. We believe that systemic change is driven by building collaborative infrastructures that sustain complexity. This means mobilizing not only financial resources, but also reputational and political capital, forming networks of support that move with clear intention. It means drawing from the collective intelligence embedded in local communities, listening deeply to those who face the challenges and are already designing solutions. And it requires intentional alliances that bridge sectors, perspectives, and institutions. These alliances must not be merely symbolic, but structurally committed to lasting transformation.

To “cross borders” does not necessarily mean going far; it means going deeper. To move toward complexity, contradiction, and co-creation. To truly leave your comfort zone, you need to shift your posture. It is in that shift that we begin to see that many of the answers we seek are already here, in the territories, in the relationships, in the people who have long been sustaining life at the margins.

Esperançar reminds us that hope is not a concept. It is a verb. And listening is one of its most powerful forms.

Hope in action: Reflections from the Brazil Philanthropy Forum

Publicado em 6 de novembro de 2025 por lxavier

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This article was originally published in Alliance Magazine on November 4, 2025

By Patricia McIlreavy, president and CEO of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy.

Recently, I participated in Esperançar, Hope in Action, at the IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment Brazil Philanthropy Forum.

Over the course of the day, despite the incredibly difficult environment of funding withdrawals and increased climate risks, what resonated for me was the focus on solutions and positivity. Words like hope, love and legacy surfaced again and again.

These weren’t offered as Pollyanna-isms or naive optimism. Instead, they were a collective acknowledgement that the time is now for us to explore new solutions, to move beyond the inertia of what was, and to be invigorated by what can be.

Patricia McIlreavy was one of the speakers at the Forum, on the panel “Hope in Action in Times of Climate Change”. Credits: Andre Porto

During the opening session titled, ‘Hope is Ancestral,’ Daniel Munduruku challenged those of us in the room to ask ourselves: Are we being good ancestors? To look at the now of our legacy and ask ourselves, will what I do today remain?

It was a question that stood in stark contrast to events I attended just a week earlier during the UN General Assembly in New York, where many seemed to be grieving for today, rewriting yesterday and holding a profound sense of gloom for tomorrow. That grief is legitimate. The structures and systems that once supported millions in need have been dismantled without clear transitions, leaving vast trust and skills gaps in their wake.

And yet, in Brazil, a country where communities face uncertainty and a disproportionate vulnerability to the growing frequency of climate change-related hazards, I couldn’t help but see the dichotomy in the approach to philanthropy. The ask of philanthropy wasn’t one of saving or gap-filling. It was an invitation: to collaborate strategically, to incubate community-led initiatives and to experiment with innovative finance.

During the session ‘Companies Sowing Transformation’ on corporate social responsibility, the challenge to the room was to think in terms of systemic transformation. Jargon was notably absent. Instead, speakers urged us to reframe our thinking from ‘How can we help?’ to ‘How can we be part of the change you are pursuing?’

In David Kim’s ‘Humanity: The Origin of Hope” session, he posed the question: “Who are we and what ought we to be?”. It’s an excellent question for all of us to explore and examine. Here are a few ideas to get us started:

See what is already present

Local, national and regional actors are, and have been, ready and willing to lead their own development and disaster recovery efforts. Is it always perfect? Of course not. But neither is the international aid system.

What does work? Collaboration, clarity and shared capital.

What gets in the way? When we muddy collective solutions with ego-driven mandates or existential thinking that centers the donor rather than the community.

Recognise that not all philanthropy is big-dollar philanthropy

The Brazil Giving Research 2024 reported that 50 per-cent of the population donated in response to emergencies last year, often outside their home states. The recent CAF World Giving Report 2025 noted similar trends, demonstrating that generosity is not the exclusive domain of the wealthy. Rather, it is deeply rooted in community, shared purpose and a belief in mutual aid.

Stop getting in our own way

The Brazil report and the latest Edelman Trust Barometer both highlighted a decline in trust in nonprofits. As I wrote in ‘Turning Urgency into Opportunity’, ‘Trust, accountability, and compelling storytelling matter, not just to raise funds in the first weeks, but to earn the public’s confidence in the months and years that follow.’

As philanthropists, we must model trust. We must work towards partnerships that stop conflating having the money with having the solutions.

It’s easy to look to the future with despair. Yet, there are a million reasons to look to it with hope. These reasons exist in the courage of those already leading change, in the generosity of those who give what they can, and in the conviction that together, we can do something today that makes us good ancestors for tomorrow.

In the words of Paulo Freire, a Brazilian philosopher, ‘I am not hopeful because I am naïve, but because I am stubborn.’

May we all hold fast to that stubbornness and continue to seek to be the best ancestors we can be.

Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2025 reflects on the challenges and responses of philanthropy nowadays

Publicado em 3 de novembro de 2025 por lxavier

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How can we put hope in action in philanthropy? How can data, technology and artificial intelligence drive social transformation? What influence does family philanthropy have? And how can philanthropy actually lead us to a more equal society?

These and many other questions guided the discussions at the 14th Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, held on October 1st, 2025, and organized by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment. The event brought together influential leaders from Brazilian and global philanthropy, as well as representatives from civil society and the private sector.

With the theme ‘Hope in Action’, the Forum was organized in partnership with the Global Philanthropy Forum and Charities Aid Foundation.

“It’s easy to feel paralyzed, with the future clouded by uncertainty. But I look around and see you – people who dedicate themselves every day to causes like education, health, climate, human rights, income generation, racial equity, culture, and so many others. You are not just waiting – you are acting,” emphasized Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, in her opening remarks.

Climate urgency and socio-environmental justice

“Disaster is the vulnerability to the event, not the event itself”. With this reflection, Patricia McIlreavy, President and CEO of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, opened the first panel, which addressed climate change and socio-environmental justice. She was joined by Alice Amorim, from the COP30 Presidency, Viviana Santiago, from Oxfam Brasil, and moderator Malu Nunes, from the Boticário Group Foundation for Nature Protection.

Her words connected with the broader theme of the session: that crises reveal inequalities already present, and philanthropy’s response must prioritize people. The panel emphasized placing communities at the center of decision-making, fostering multi-stakeholder alliances, and integrating environmental and equity agendas.

The role of corporations and social investors

Discussions also explored how companies can become agents of transformation — going beyond grant-making to embed purpose in their value chains and strategic partnerships. Philanthropy, in this view, becomes not only a moral duty but a strategic investment in both society and business.

“In these moments of uncertainty and difficulty, the role of social investors and corporations has not changed”, said Alejandro Alvarez von Gustedt, Vice President of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors in Europe. “The environment may have shifted somewhat, but what we need to do to achieve impact by supporting communities remains essentially the same: the path is engagement and partnership. Above all, within communities, we must listen, collaborate, and build those partnerships. That’s how we can maximize the social return on every dollar or real invested”.

When it comes to the influence of family philanthropy, Carola Matarazzo, Executive Director of Movimento Bem Maior and Chair of the GIFE Governance Council, opened the discussion by revisiting the historical evolution of family giving in Brazil and the lessons learned along the way. She highlighted family governance as a key pillar and reflected on how different generations have contributed to shaping new approaches, often guided by the idea of transforming inheritance into legacy.

Innovation, technology and trust

The Forum also explored how digital tools, monitoring systems, and shared platforms can help philanthropy scale and become more agile, while emphasizing that innovation must remain rooted in listening, equity, and trust.

In the panel “Putting Hope into Action, Not Just Waiting: Monitoring for Bridge Building”, participants reflected on how data, power balance, and trust intersect in evaluation processes. Meanwhile, “Innovation and Technology: From Dystopia to Utopia” showcased practical experiences demonstrating how technology can strengthen public management, drive structural change, and promote a culture of evidence-based learning focused on social transformation.

The closing plenary brought together leaders from diverse sectors and countries, reinforcing the importance of collaboration across perspectives to build a more just and prosperous future.

“We certainly face enormous challenges, but we have seen throughout today that they do not paralyze us,” said Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, in her closing remarks. “As Paulo Freire, who coined the term ‘hope in action’, once said, ‘I am not hopeful out of stubbornness, but out of existential and historical necessity.’ Today we celebrated the dreams – and the persistence – of people who act in pursuit of a more just and sustainable world.”

Watch the full event here:

About IDIS

We are IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, a civil society organization founded in 1999 and pioneer in technical support to social investors in Brazil. With the mission to inspire, support and promote strategic philanthropy and its impact, we serve individuals, families, companies, corporate and family run institutes and foundations, as well as with civil society organizations, in actions that transform realities and contribute for the reduction of social inequality in the country. Our actions are based on the tripod of generating knowledge, offering advisory and developing social impact projects that contribute to the strengthening of the ecosystem of strategic philanthropy and of giving culture.

IA.3 – Artificial Intelligence for the Third Sector

Publicado em 18 de setembro de 2025 por lxavier

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IDIS initiative offers free training for NGOs to apply Artificial Intelligence to boost causes and institutional activities, including concepts, tools, practical exercises, and guidance for ethical and responsible use

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not something new. The history of AI began in the 1950s, going through cycles of excitement and disappointment, and recently boomed, with the launch of accessible tools like Gemini and ChatGPT, among others. In a matter of months, it became part of our daily lives, like the internet in the 1990s and the smartphone in the 2000s, but much more quickly. Its adoption has caused transformations, and it could not be different in the third sector.

The most recent survey conducted by the Brazilian Federal Government reveals that there are almost 650,000 active civil society organizations throughout the national territory. Commonly known as NGOs, these institutions form the third sector and play an essential role in promoting rights, reducing inequalities, and creating innovative solutions to social and environmental challenges, operating in different areas such as education, health, or human rights.

A survey launched by Canal SabIAr, in partnership with Instituto Beja, on the use of AI in the third sector revealed that only 6% of respondents reported advanced integration of the technology in their operations, while 58% are still in the early stages of experimentation or planning, and 11% have not yet started adopting AI. There is a growing interest in exploring the possibilities that AI offers, especially in areas such as communication and data analysis, but the lack of knowledge and training are barriers to progress.

In the third sector, for example, AI can help map social needs, measure project impact, and expand the reach of campaigns and access to resources. Democratizing access to AI can strengthen organizations, making them more efficient and sustainable, but investing in training is essential to prevent technology from increasing existing inequalities, reinforcing biases and injustices, and exceeding ethical and data security limits.

IA.3

To empower NGOs operating in Brazil in the use of Artificial Intelligence, IA.3 – Artificial Intelligence for the Third Sector was created, providing conditions for them to incorporate this technology in a conscious and strategic manner. Conceived by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, with support from Google.org and technical assistance from Canal SabIAr, the project will last three years and aims to encourage the adoption of the tool in daily activities, as well as promote innovative solutions developed by the social sector itself.

“With IA.3 we aim to benefit over a thousand NGOs across the country, offering accessible and practical content, contributing to democratize the use of Artificial Intelligence to promote positive socio-environmental impacts. Organizations that are interested in deepening their knowledge will also have access to more a complete training”, explains Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

Structured in a multi-step learning journey, ranging from basic content to in-person meetings and individualized mentoring, third sector organizations can register to participate in the program that will work as follows:

Training webinar

The first activity will take place in October. This is a free webinar open to those interested in learning more about concepts and tools of artificial intelligence, opportunities for use in the third sector, and precautions for its application. Practical examples, prompt models, and successful stories will be used to make the content accessible and with immediate implementation.

Intensive training

Between October and November, there will be a public call that will select 200 organizations to receive 30-hour training over 4 months, combining live online classes, asynchronous content, and practical activities.

Brazilian third sector organizations of all sizes and causes can register, provided they have a minimum internet infrastructure and can make at least three team members available to participate in the training (hired or volunteers). The selection will adopt criteria that balance different types and sizes of social organizations, as well as diversity criteria.

The selected organizations will be divided into two groups, the first will start the training in February 2026 and the other in February 2027. Each organization will have access to an AI toolkit, as well as an annual license for a paid platform to test in their daily activities.

In-person meeting and individualized mentoring

Representatives from the 30 organizations with the best performance in each intensive training class will participate in a two-day in-person meeting in São Paulo, Brazil, with all expenses paid, to deepen the use of AI in their causes, build concrete solutions, exchange experiences, and strengthen collaboration networks. It is scheduled to take place in the second semester of the training year. Individualized mentoring will also be offered for six months, contributing to organizations overcoming implementation challenges.

Impact assessment and knowledge dissemination

To monitor the variety of applications and the contribution of the use of modern technologies for third sector organizations, the project will adopt a robust experimental evaluation methodology, comparing organizations that took part in the training with those that did not, which will receive the training later.

In addition to measuring concrete results, the evaluation will support the development of a groundbreaking study with practical examples of the impact of using AI, with quantitative and qualitative data, to be launched at an event with leaders and specialists at the end of the program.

Why it is important to talk about Artificial Intelligence in the third sector

By democratizing access to Artificial Intelligence, IDIS not only responds to an emerging demand but reaffirms its belief that innovation must be inclusive, accessible, and aware of its multiple impacts, from the way it consumes energy to the way it can reproduce or correct social inequalities. In this way, we use technology to promote a more equitable and sustainable development for everyone. “IA.3 creates conditions for technology to be incorporated as a lasting resource, strengthening both NGOs and the philanthropic ecosystem as a whole,” says Fabiani.

This project is made possible with support from Google.org, the philanthropic arm of Google. “We believe that artificial intelligence can be a powerful tool, and by supporting initiatives that promote technical training in AI, Google contributes to more organizations having access to resources that enhance their efficiency, sustainability, and reach. Our commitment is to use technology to generate positive transformations and adherence in society,” declared Fábio Coelho, president of Google Brazil, when announcing the support.

International seminar marks Philanthropy Day at COP30

Publicado em 18 de setembro de 2025 por lxavier

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Event highlights the importance of philanthropic capital for climate financing aligned with socio-environmental justice

Philanthropy and impact capital will have a prominent place at COP30 in Belém. On November 17, Philanthropy Day will be held, a free event that will bring together socio-environmental investors from companies, foundations, and business and independent institutes, as well as representatives of organized civil society to discuss the role of private capital in accelerating climate solutions. The event takes place at Casa Balaio, in the Nazaré neighborhood, from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM, with prior registration required. Simultaneous translation will be available.

Going to COP30? Click here to register.

Promoted by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, CAF – Charities Aid Foundation, Latimpacto, Sitawi, and WINGS, and with RD Saude as partners, national and international organizations that work directly to strengthen the philanthropic field, the meeting proposes an immersion in new philanthropy dynamics. The program includes speakers from different countries and will present practical and inspiring experiences of actors engaged in addressing contemporary environmental challenges.

According to Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, the event will highlight how philanthropy can multiply its impact and states that “The advancement of the climate agenda does not result only from international agreements and public policies. It requires coordinated action among different sectors of society, mobilization of strategic resources, and continuous collaboration.”

Strategies will be discussed ranging from support for community adaptation and post-disaster reconstruction to mobilization for climate justice, socio-environmental development, technological innovation, energy transition, and equitable public policies.

ImpactMinds 2025: Connections, Culture and Impact

Publicado em 12 de setembro de 2025 por lxavier

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by Fabio Lupo, Prospecting and Partnerships Manager at IDIS

Representing IDIS, I participated in ImpactMinds: Collective Makers, promoted by Latimpacto, which brought together in Medellín, Colombia, more than 700 people from different countries and organizations committed to strengthening the impact ecosystem in Latin America. The event created a space for exchange and learning, where the social challenges of Latin America were at the forefront.

Brazilian delegation at ImpactMinds 2025

On the very first day, participants were invited to explore the city through visits to cultural institutions, communities, and local organizations. I chose the itinerary that included the Museum of Antioquia, where I had the opportunity to learn about the institution’s behind-the-scenes work, its educational programs, and to visit the Fernando Botero exhibition. The artist’s donations were fundamental to the museum’s recognition and relevance, highlighting the transformative power of cultural philanthropy.

Marcos Manoel, IDIS’s Director of Projects, who also took part in the event, chose to visit Comuna 13 — one of Medellín’s most emblematic neighborhoods, marked by a history of violence, but today a symbol of social transformation, urban art, and community resilience. The visit organized by the event allowed participants to discover local initiatives, graffiti murals telling the community’s story, and projects that foster inclusion and development.

Over the following days, I joined panels and workshops that addressed key topics for advancing private social investment and impact businesses. One highlight was the discussion on unlocking finance for initiatives that generate positive socio-environmental impact. The complexity of the issue was explored from different perspectives — from the role of blended finance and innovative instruments to the regulatory and cultural challenges that still restrict the flow of capital to transformative solutions.

Another recurring theme in the conversations was the importance of social investors trusting the organizations they support, recognizing them as experts in their causes and knowledgeable about the contexts in which they operate.

The event was also marked by a strong connection with Colombian culture. The generosity, warmth, and hospitality of the hosts created a welcoming environment that encouraged dialogue and the building of bridges between different actors in the fight against inequality in Latin America.

The closing session of ImpactMinds featured the participation of Brazilian Indigenous leader Vanda Witoto, who spoke about ancestry, territory, and resilience. It was also announced that the next edition of the event will take place in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil, in 2026 — a symbolic and strategic choice that places the Amazon biome at the center of discussions on climate resilience and socio-environmental justice.

IDIS’s participation in ImpactMinds reaffirms our commitment to strengthening the impact ecosystem in Latin America and to seeking solutions that promote social justice, equity, and sustainability. We return with renewed ideas, potential partnerships, and the certainty that together we can unlock pathways to a fairer and more inclusive future.

Community Philanthropy is the theme of the Transforming Territories Program Web Series

Publicado em 11 de setembro de 2025 por lxavier

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With an invitation to reflect who are the responsibles to transforming territories, IDIS, together with the collective of Community Foundations (CFs), launched the Transforming Territories Web Series. The production brings real stories of impact, belonging, and community leadership promoted by CFs in different regions of Brazil. There are 14 episodes focused on transformation within the territories of participating organizations, covering cities such as Manaus, São Paulo, Maceió, Porto Alegre, and many other metropolitan areas.

One of the episodes highlights the work of Instituto Cacimba, which operates in Jardim Ângela, São Paulo (SP), acting as a bridge between youth, local culture, and the construction of collective solutions for the territory. The episode also features the work of Escola de DesNegócio, a project by Instituto NUA supported by Cacimba, whose goal is to train, support, and accelerate businesses in the urban periphery, boosting entrepreneurship and the local economy through the generation of shared wealth for the territory and its community.

“We believe community philanthropy can be an important driver of social transformation in Brazil. While it is already well established abroad, we had to ‘jaboticabar’ this model to fit our Brazilian reality. The launch of this web series is a major milestone for the Transforming Territories program and for all the organizations that take part in it. Through these videos, we can see the scope of action of Brazilian Community Foundations and the diversity present in each of their territories. This web series was built collaboratively with the FICs, which made it even more remarkable,” says Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

Paula Fabiani with organizational leaders during a meeting held in March

The web series presents initiatives developed by organizations that are deeply familiar with the challenges and opportunities of their territories, working through dialogue, listening, and community mobilization. They are:

– Alagoas: Mundaú Mundo

– Amazonas: Manauara Associação Comunitária

– Espírito Santo: FUNDAES – Federação das Fundações e Associações do Espírito Santo

– Maranhão: Instituto Baixada Maranhense

– Minas Gerais: Associação Nossa Cidade e JEQUI – Instituto Comunitário de Desenvolvimento e Inovação do Vale do Jequitinhonha

– Rio de Janeiro: Fundo Comunitário da Maré e Instituto Comunitário Paraty

– Rio Grande do Sul: Fundação Gerações

– São Paulo: Fundo Comunitário Perifasul M’Boi Mirim, FEAV – Fórum das Entidades Assistenciais de Valinhos e Instituto Cacimba

– Santa Catarina: ICOM – Instituto Comunitário Grande Florianópolis

– Sergipe: ICOSE – Instituto Comunitário de Sergipe

The production, supported by Movimento Bem Maior, is part of the Transforming Territories program, an initiative by IDIS in partnership with the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, which promotes the creation and strengthening of Community Foundations in Brazil. The program’s purpose is to foster local development through collaborative, transparent strategies aligned with the real needs of the population.

ABOUT TRANSFORMANDO TERRITÓRIOS

The Transformando Territórios Program is an initiative of IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation to foster the creation and strengthening of Community Foundations (CFs) in Brazil. It does so through donor and civil society engagement, knowledge sharing, and technical support.

Learn more about the program and its participants at www.transformandoterritorios.org.br.

IDIS launches publication with a profile of philanthropists and proposals to promote family philanthropy in Brazil

Publicado em 9 de setembro de 2025 por lxavier

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A new mapping proposes ways to increase the number of donors, the volume of funds donated, and the social impact generated by high-net-worth families

Brazil is experiencing a paradox: while the number of millionaires and billionaires in the country grows, the volume of donations made by wealthy families seems stagnant and far below its potential. To understand the scenario and identify ways to change this reality, IDIS – the Institute for the Development of Social Investment launches the publication Paths to a Broader and More Strategic Action in Family Philanthropy in Brazil, the result of interviews, unpublished data, and contributions from experts and active philanthropists.

According to Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, “in decisive moments, especially in the face of emergency demands, people with high net worth make donations. The challenge is channelling this energy into structural and long-term actions. There is, undoubtedly, room not only to involve new families and individuals in philanthropic activities, but also to expand the volume and impact of those who already donate.”

Overview: expressive potential, still timid impact

The study presents a portrait of family philanthropy, globally and in Brazil. In this modality, there is a strong influence of individual and family values, often a desire to leave a legacy or give back to society what has been achieved, in addition to a greater propensity for risk and greater freedom in choosing causes than the social investment practiced by companies.

Among the global trends observed, movements such as the Giving Pledge and the Generation Pledge have driven the public commitment of holders of large fortunes to donate a relevant part of their assets. In May 2025, for example, Bill Gates announced his intention to donate practically all of his fortune, estimated at around $108 billion, over the next 20 years.

The Brazilian scenario was detailed through interviews with specialists and an online survey, which included the participation of 35 philanthropists, whose practices are, for the most part, already well-structured and involve expressive annual donations – 40% indicate donating a volume exceeding R$5 million per year.

The sample revealed that although education — including basic, professional and technical education — leads as the most mentioned cause, family philanthropy in Brazil may be expanding its scope and opening up to more sensitive and structurally challenging topics. Topics such as the environment and sustainability mobilize 26% of respondents, while 17% show interest in initiatives aimed at influencing public policies. The fight against hunger and the reduction of inequalities also appears among the priority causes, with 14% of the mentions. There are also examples of families involved with issues such as public security, strengthening democracy and the decriminalization of drugs.

The mapping also identified that the decision about donations is usually shared within the family unit. Spouses participate in decision in 65% of the cases, followed by children (59%), and siblings (49%). These data demonstrate that the practice of donation often emerges from a collective process, sustained by affective bonds, shared values and the desire for legacy. On the other hand, for administrative management and execution issues, 65% indicate that they rely on the support of professionals who are expert professionals.

Among the main obstacles mapped by the study are the perception civil society organizations’ lack of capacity to deliver social impact efficiently — a factor mentioned by 20% of respondents. Furthermore, 17% pointed to the absence of adequate tax incentives for individual donations as a hindrance to the expansion of the practice. Another impediment is the lack of knowledge about causes and institutions to be supported, mentioned by 3%, in addition to the fear of personal and property security — a concern quite present among high-income families in Latin America.

How to make family philanthropy broader and more strategic in Brazil

The study points out three complementary paths for the expansion of family philanthropy and identifies ongoing actions and gaps, proposing coordinated action with more collaborations. The strategic map, which presents practices that can be carried out to reach a new level, was built with the participation of active philanthropists.

More high-net-worth individuals and families involved in philanthropy. This includes raising awareness among new donors and the next generation of philanthropists, creating spaces of belonging and peer exchange, empowering advisors who influence decision-making, and broadening the public discussion about the social role of wealthy families.
Increase in the average amount donated by each individual and family. Here, the focus is broadening trust and strengthening the governance of NGOs, in addition to stimulating changes in the regulatory and fiscal environment that favor donation.
More capital has been mobilized with medium and long-term commitments aimed at solving structural problems. The study highlights the need to diversify financial instruments used by philanthropists, foster advocacy and build cross-sectoral coalitions capable of generating impact at scale.

A call to action

For IDIS, the launch of the study opens a new chapter in Brazilian philanthropy.

“Change does not depend on an isolated agent. It requires the engagement of everyone involved in the ecosystem: philanthropists, consultants, lawyers, accountants, communicators, NGO managers, and public policy makers. What we propose is an invitation to coordinated action, with clear goals and joint strategies”, highlights Felipe Insunza Groba, project manager at IDIS.

The current context – marked by deep inequalities, socio-environmental and institutional crises, and a growing urgency for systemic solutions – demands a new generation of philanthropists willing to act with intention and strategy. “Brazil has enormous potential for socio-environmental transformation through family philanthropy. But, to that happen, a mindset shift is needed: moving away from one-off giving or emergency response and building a continuous, coordinated approach aimed at generating positive impacts,” adds Groba.

The initiative had the support of Itaú Foundation, Beja Institute, Movimento Bem Maior and Sociedade Beneficente Israelita Brasileira Albert Einstein.

About IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment

IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment – was founded in 1999, and is an independent social organization. It is the first organization to strategically support social investors in Brazil. Its objective is to inspire, support and expand private social investment and its impact, promoting actions that transform realities and contribute to the reduction of social inequalities in the country. Its performance is supported by the generation of knowledge, consulting, and carrying out impact projects, which contribute to the strengthening of the philanthropy ecosystem and the culture of donation.

Save the date: Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2025

Publicado em 18 de agosto de 2025 por mgama

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The 14th edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum is already scheduled: on Wednesday, October 1st. Once again, besides the in-person event in São Paulo that is exclusive for guests, the event will also take place online.

Check out the event agenda:

In the face of the complexity of the global polycrisis, it is easy to feel paralyzed, with the horizon of the future shrouded in uncertainty. But we cannot simply wait. We need to rekindle the flame of our resilient humanity, cultivate trust in solidarity and in ourselves. More than ever, it is time to act, collaborate, mobilize forces, and believe that a more equitable world is possible. Philanthropy serves as a lighthouse, guiding the direction of new alternatives and possibilities, putting hope in action. Let us move forward, with the courage to hope.
In this edition, join us to explore stories and practices.

With the theme “Hope in Action”, the event will take place in person for invited guests and will be livestreamed for everyone interested in following the discussions.

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR THE live streaming

CONFIRMED SPEAKERS

Among the confirmed speakers are Alejandro Alvarez von Gustedt (Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors), Aron Zylberman (Cyrela Institute),Camila Valverde (ArcelorMittal Foundation), Daniel Munduruku (Indigenous writer), Fátima Lima (MAPFRE in Brazil), Tião Rocha (CPCD – Popular Center for Culture and Development), Murilo Nogueira (Bradesco Foundation), and Viviana Santiago (Oxfam Brazil). International guests include David Kyuman Kim (Being Human) and Patricia McIlreavy (Center for Disaster Philanthropy).

ORGANIZERS AND PARTNERS

brazilian philanthropy forum

Brazil Giving Research: volume of individual donations in Brazil reaches BRL 24.3 billions ($4.5 billion) in 2024

Publicado em 18 de agosto de 2025 por lxavier

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The research points to a more demanding donor and brings a special chapter on donations for emergency situations

Strongly influenced by the socioeconomic context and emergency situations, the donation scenario in Brazil presents a new pattern. The new edition of Brazil Giving Research reveals more selective donation practices, an increase in the amounts donated, and a greater demand for transparency from beneficiary institutions. In 2024, 78% of Brazilians over 18 years old and with a family income higher than minimum wage (approximately $280) made at least one type of donation, whether of money, goods/food, or time, in the form of volunteer work.

GET TO KNOW THE MAIN RESULTS HERE:

The biannual research is an initiative of IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment – and presents a detailed overview of the perception and donation practices of Brazilians. The research has as one of its main lines of analysis the concept of institutional monetary donation, made to NGOs and/or socio-environmental projects and campaigns, and does not consider donations of alms, tithes, or money to acquaintances.

According to Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, “The Brazil Giving Research provides fundamental data to understand the advances and challenges regarding this practice, and reinforces the importance of promoting trust in NGOs, in addition to continuing to foster the giving culture in Brazil”.

The research, conducted by Ipsos at the request of IDIS, has national coverage, with representation in all regions of the country, and was carried out through an online collection of 1,500 interviews. The margin of error of the study is 2.5 percentage points.

The estimated value of the donation volume in 2024 was BRL 24.3 billion ($4.5 billion), higher than the BRL 14.8 billion ($2.7 billion) recorded in 2022 and adjusted to current values. The median of annual individual donations increased from BRL 300 to BRL 480.

The practice is less frequent, occurring fewer times a year, but more strategic: most donors claim to choose causes carefully (86%) and seek information before donating (83%). On the other hand, 49% have stopped donating after negative news about organizations, which highlights the importance of trust as an essential asset for the sector. The loyalty also showed a decline: only 49% maintain the habit of donating to the same institutions every year – in 2015, it was 69%.

The donor profile in 2024 reveals a more balanced and qualified scenario. Men and women exhibit similar donation rates, marking a new equating between the genders. The highest incidence is among adults aged 30 to 49 — an economically active and stable age group — and among people with higher education, of whom more than half make donations (57%). The practice is also more prevalent among individuals with higher household income, particularly highlighting the growth in the brackets between 4 and 6 times the minimum wage and above 8 times the minimum wage. Geographically, the North, Central-West, and South regions recorded higher rates, influenced by the occurrence of emergency situations in 2024. The study also reveals a shift in the ecosystem of influence: community and religious networks are gaining more space; with traditional approaches such as calls or emails losing effectiveness.

With extreme climate events of great magnitude occurring in Brazil in 2024, such as floods in Rio Grande do Sul state, droughts in the Amazon rainforest, and fires in the Pantanal biome, the Brazil Giving Research brings a special chapter on donations made for emergency situations. Among its highlights is the fact that half of the Brazilian population donated to an emergency in 2024, with more significant donations than observed during the pandemic, suggesting a greater willingness to donate in times of crisis. It was also revealing that 60% of the monetary donations for these purposes were directed to locations outside their own state, demonstrating not only national solidarity but a deep instinct to act, even when the need is far from home.

According to Patricia McIlreavy, CEO of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP), who contributed to the research, “The organizations closest to the affected communities are also the most capable of providing solutions, but they need resources before, during, and after disasters.”

As emergency donors also tend to donate in other situations, McIlreavy highlights how in Brazil there is an enormous potential to engage the emergency donor in more structural actions, which involve addressing the causes of vulnerabilities and long-term recovery.

THE PROPORTION OF INCOME ALLOCATED TO DONATIONS ACCORDING TO THE WORLD GIVING REPORT

The World Giving Report 2025, a new study by the UK-based Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) – represented in Brazil by IDIS – introduces for the first time an indicator that measures generosity across countries based on the share of income allocated to donations, whether directed to organizations, people in vulnerable situations, or religious purposes. According to the report, Brazil ranks 48th, with an average of 0.93% of Brazilians’ income devoted to social and environmental causes – a result above the South American average of 0.73%.

The research surveyed more than 50,000 people across 101 countries to understand solidarity on a global scale, referring to donations made throughout 2024.

In Brazil’s case, although trust levels in social organizations are slightly above the global average (the country scores 10 points on a 15-point scale, while the global average is 9.2), they remain below their full potential, indicating that there is still significant room for improvement. Moreover, Brazilians tend to prioritize donating to local and national organizations rather than international institutions. This preference may be linked to the desire for greater understanding and proximity to the causes and organizations they support.

You can learn more and download the full study here.

About the Brazil Giving Research

The Brazil Giving Research was created with the purpose of mapping in depth the perceptions, postures, and donation practices among Brazilians, with a special focus on monetary contributions. The study investigates the factors that drive or hinder the act of donating, providing a comprehensive understanding of individual donor behavior in the country. Since its first edition, which analyzed the year of 2015, the research has consolidated itself as the main source of data on the giving culture in Brazil, with new editions in 2020, 2022, and 2024. Throughout this journey, it has been contributing to the development of more effective strategies for resource mobilization, providing valuable aid for public policies, third sector initiatives, and institutional actions that aim at making the culture of donating in Brazil more solid, conscious, and sustainable.

Organization and supporters

The 2024 Brazil Giving Research is an initiative of IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment. Ipsos was responsible for carrying out the research and Fundação Bradesco, Fundação Itaú, Fundação Sicredi, Movimento Bem Maior, Galo da Manhã, Instituto ACP, and Instituto MOL, were the financial supporters. Teresa Bracher also contributed.

About IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment

IDIS is an independent social organization founded in 1999 and a pioneer in providing technical support to social investors in Brazil. With the mission of inspiring, supporting, and expanding private social investment and its impact, it works alongside individuals, families, companies, foundations, and corporate and family institutes, as well as civil society organizations in actions that transform realities and contribute to reducing socio-environmental inequalities in the country.

New study finds people in wealthy countries donate significantly less than low-income countries

Publicado em 21 de julho de 2025 por lxavier

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World Giving Report presents unprecedented data that analyses the share of income donated in 101 countries

The World Giving Report 2025, a new study by the UK-based Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), represented in Brazil by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, presents for the first time an indicator which measures the generosity of countries based on the share of people’s income destined to donations – them being directed to organizations, individuals in socially vulnerable situations, or religious motives. According to the report, Brazil ranks 48th, with an average of 0.93% of Brazilians’ income being donated to social and environmental causes – a result above the South American average of 0.73%.

The survey interviewed more than 50,000 people across 101 countries in order to better understand global solidarity and it refers to donations made throughout 2024. One of the main findings from the study is that, proportionally, poorer countries are the ones which donate more: the donation rate in these countries was of an average of 1.45% of the people’s income, more than double the 0.7% seen in wealthier nations. In Africa, this percentage reaches 1.54%, while in Europe it is just 0.64%.

Nigeria leads the global generosity ranking, with citizens donating 2.83% of their income to public interest causes. In contrast, three G7 countries are among those that least donate in relative terms: France (0.45%), Germany (0.39%) and Japan (0.16%). The United States, on the other hand, reached an average of 0.97% of income donations, placing 46th in the ranking, tied with Singapore.

Download the publication:

Trust in organizations and the government’s role

At a time when social organizations around the world are facing financial difficulties, people say they would be more willing to donate if they had more money (45%), if they knew more about how their money would be used (36%) and if they better understood the impact the organization could have (35%).

Another highlight from the report shows that, globally, people are more generous when their governments actively encourage giving. When this occurs, individuals also tend to have greater trust in the institutions and view them as more important to society.

In Brazil, although trust levels in social organizations are slightly above the global average (with the country scoring 10 on a 15-point scale, compared to the global average of 9.2), they still fall short of their full potential, indicating that there is significant room for improvement. Brazilians also tend to prioritize local and national organizations over international ones when it comes to donating. This preference may be linked to a wish for greater understanding and proximity to causes and organizations they support.

“It is notable that giving does not necessarily correlate with wealth or even security, but rather on the perception of necessity – and very often we perceive those closest to us to be most in need. During these challenging times, there is much we can learn about the power of connection, and the nature of compassion for our fellow citizens, whether they be across the street or around the world”, says Neil Heslop, CEO of the Charities Aid Foundation.

Together for Health Program launches 2024 annual activity report

Publicado em 15 de julho de 2025 por mfleury

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The document details the work carried out on the second year of the program and the main results achieved so far, as well as the main activities and projects planned for 2025, ensuring transparency towards society and partners.

Launched in 2023, Together for Health (Juntos pela Saúde, in Portuguese) is an initiative of the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES), managed by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, developed in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil.

In partnership with private donors, the Program aims to gather resources to support and strengthen the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil, where approximately 75 million people live, and where 9 out of 10 people depend exclusively on SUS (IBGE, 2020). The high demand presents significant challenges, including low availability of doctors, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to population health data.

Download the 2024 Together for Health Annual Activity Report here (available only in Portuguese)

Main achievements

Together for Health program: expanding resources for the North and Northeast regions of the country

2024 represented the second year of the Together for Health program, whose mission is to strengthen the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) and implement structuring measures, including primary, medium, and high complexity care, as well as urgent and emergency health care services, and support for diagnoses of various diseases.

The results achieved in the year demonstrate that we are on the right track, utilizing well-applied resources and having a positive impact in several territories.

Check out the main actions carried out and the program numbers between 2023 and 2024:

– Expansion of actions, with the implementation of 14 projects, two of them having been concluded

– More than 113 million BRL (approximately 20,3 million USD) will be invested in the reinforcement of Brazilian public health until 2026

– 139 municipalities impacted

– 10,461 health care professionals impacted (direct beneficiaries)

– 1,345 health units mobilized (Basic Health Unit (UBS) or Public Center of Psychosocial Attention (CAPS))

– 16,890 professionals trained

– 4,382 technological equipment provided (e.g. 1,865 tablets, 421 blood pressure devices, 412 Wi-Fi routers, 329laptops, 261 oximeters, etc.)

– 4,332,429 SUS users impacted (indirect beneficiaries)

Since the beginning of the program, Together for Health has already invested:

– 31,7 million BRL (approximately 5,7 million USD) in technology solutions and

– 18,3 million BRL (approximately 3,3 million USD) in infrastructure and health equipment.

Launching the public notice

In 2024, a significant milestone for the program was the launch of the public notice called Primary Health Care Enforcement Initiatives (in Portuguese, Iniciativas de Fortalecimento da Atenção Primária à Saúde), promoted in partnership with Umane, which received over 40 project proposals. The public notice aimed to support projects with solutions for Primary Health Care, prioritizing initiatives which integrated new technologies, digital health and innovation.

– These projects will receive through the public notice around 17 million BRL (approximately 3 million USD)

– So far, 39 municipalities have been directly impacted, with a goal of reaching 50 municipalities in the Brazilian states of Alagoas, Bahia, Ceará, Maranhão, Pará, Paraíba, Pernambuco, Rio Grande do Norte, Roraima e Sergipe.

Learn about all the projects developed throughout 2024, via public notice or structured promotion:

Dashboard of Mental Health Indicators

Carried out by ImpulsoGov and supported by RD Saúde, the project had the purpose of expanding access to data and simplified information for mental health managers in Brazilian municipalities. The initiative ended in August 2024.

Impulso Previne – Cycle 1 and Cycle 2

Implemented by ImpulsoGov, in partnership with Dynamo Institute (cycle 1) and Umane (cycle 2), it consists of a digital solution that centralizes data, analysis, and recommendations on the main indicators of Primary Health Care on a single platform. The project has two cycles. The first cycle was completed in June 2024.

Social Protection Health Cycle

The project is carried out by the Health Promotion Center (Cedaps), and supported by Vale Foundation, aiming to strengthen Primary Health Care in SUS, increasing the capacity for diagnosis, planning, operationalization, monitoring and evaluation of services through shared work plans organized by the health needs of local populations.

NoHarm: Intelligence for Patient Safety

Implemented by the Institute of Artificial Intelligence in Health, in partnership with Umane, the project has the objective of improving the safety and management of patients in Primary Health Care through the integration of technologies and the strengthening of operational processes.

epCertify with Hiperdia Care Pathway

The project is carried out by the epHealth Institute, in partnership with Umane, and aims to strengthen the monitoring of chronic diseases, especially hypertension and diabetes.

United for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer in Brazil

This project is implemented by the Brazilian Women Group, in partnership with Umane, and aims to contribute to the elimination of women’s mortality caused by cervical cancer.

In 2025, new projects will be implemented:

– AESOP – Alert-Early System of Outbreaks with Pandemic Potential: executed by the Molecular Biology Institute of Paraná (IBMP), in partnership with Umane.

– CARDIO: implemented by Beneficência Portuguesa (BP), with the support from the Novartis Foundation.

– SUS in the Amazon: carried out by the Sustainable Amazon Foundation (FAS) in two different cycles, the first cycle in partnership with Umane and the second cycle with the support of the Vale Fund.

– Tributaries: executed by the Institute for Health Policy Studies (IEPS), in partnership with Umane.

– V.E.R – Network Vision: executed by the Altino Ventura Foundation (FAV), in partnership with Umane.

– Weaving Threads of Comprehensive Health Care in the Amazon: developed by the Support Center to the School of Public Health of the University of São Paulo (USP) in partnership with Umane.

Why must underrepresented groups participate in philanthropic governance?

Publicado em 30 de junho de 2025 por mfleury

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Article originally published on Exame in 10/11/2024

*By Viviane Elias Moreira and Andrea Hanai

Viviane Elias Moreira: “It is urgent, therefore, that philanthropy approaches diversity with greater commitment and conviction and with less hesitation, thus creating increasingly respectful, fair and welcoming spaces.” (Leandro Fonseca/Exame).

It is estimated that we make approximately 35,000 decisions every day, ranging from simple to complex. Although decision-making is always present in our daily lives, it is not always trivial. Our choices can be decisive for our own lives or affect the future of nations, organizations or the lives of thousands, even millions, of other people.

When we delve into institutions, we encounter this crucial yet often overlooked subject: Governance. The concept encompasses systems, principles, rules, structures and processes that lead people to make more informed, assertive, sustainable, balanced, inclusive and transparent decisions.

Today, we will specifically discuss governance in socio-environmental investment. Reflecting on how choices are made regarding the allocation of resources to specific projects or organizations. The provocation proposed in this text aims to invite everyone to step out of their comfort zone, that routine or privilege that sometimes enforces itself on us.

When it comes to philanthropy, the sector must recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion in its processes, objectives and purposes, viewing it not only as a moral responsibility but as a strategic resource for true social transformation. Many philanthropic initiatives already consider diversity as a criterion for allocating resources, and many civil society organizations have adopted affirmative policies in their hiring processes.

However, the inclusion of people from different backgrounds, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, abilities and beliefs in social and workspaces goes beyond representation; it is about creating environments where these diverse voices are actively heard, encouraged and valued. For this to happen, the participation of these groups in governance decision-making processes is fundamental, bringing with them the richness of strategic decisions that consider a plurality of perspectives, conferring legitimacy to actions.

When underrepresented groups gain space and are strategically heard in decisions surrounding philanthropy, there is a redistribution of opportunities and resources which positively impact and align with the modern definition of philanthropy, going far beyond financial donations to social causes, involving a broader and more structured set of actions aimed at systemic and sustainable positive impact.

When philanthropy embraces diversity as an essential value for its realization, the potential for impact is even greater, echoing in other ways, whether by promoting more social justice, stimulating economic development or driving innovation and competitiveness. In Brazil, where social inequalities are deeply rooted in issues of race, gender and geographic location, fostering these practices has exponential transformative power.

Achieving equality in diversity topics is still challenging in operational spaces. The scenario becomes even more critical in deliberative governance bodies. At the current pace, it will take about 20 years to achieve parity between men and women in the composition of deliberative councils, for example, according to the GIFE Census 2022/2023, which surveyed 137 civil society organizations, mostly linked to family and corporate philanthropy. In terms of race, despite advances, the percentage of white people on councils is still 92%. Black individuals make up 7%, Asians 1% and there is only one indigenous person mapped in this space.

It is clear that changes in the governance of already established organizations may require time, which could justify the slow pace at which underrepresented groups are being included in deliberative instances. However, it is concerning that new civil society organizations and new decision-making processes in established organizations are being created without considering diversity and inclusion.

A recent study by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, which provides data on 74 endowment funds in Brazil, reveals that we have the presence of black or indigenous people in only 43% of General Assemblies, 36% of Deliberative, Curator or Administrative Councils, and only 11% of Investment Committees. A numerically very low presence, which in none of the instances exceeds 8% of members.

A slightly better scenario is observed when considering gender. Women are present in most Councils and Committees, but still do not occupy half of the seats in these bodies. Finally, another interesting aspect is the fact that 78% of the endowment funds (58 out of the 74 in the survey) were created after 2010.

Philanthropy is one of the most efficient ways to drive systemic changes that are not only capable of reducing social inequality but also of building a more just, equitable and inclusive society, creating a country with truly equal opportunities for all.

If we want to preserve the legitimacy and relevance of our philanthropy and our organized civil society, we need to take diversity and inclusion more seriously, not only in the actions and projects carried out but also in the decision-making process around our strategy and performance.

Therefore, it is urgent that philanthropy approaches diversity with greater commitment and conviction and less hesitation, thus creating increasingly respectful, fair,and welcoming spaces.

Viviane Elias Moreira is a fiscal counselor at IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment and Andrea Hanai is a project manager at IDIS.

Philea 2025: Equality in Focus, Justice on the Horizon

Publicado em 17 de junho de 2025 por mfleury

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By Luisa Lima, Communications and Knowledge Manager at IDIS and organizer of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum.

The opening plenary of the annual meeting of the Philanthropy Europe Association brought together nearly one thousand individuals, including foundation members and representatives of intermediary organizations, predominantly from across Europe, but also from other parts of the world, like myself. These were people united by a shared belief that the world can improve, that innovative approaches are possible, and that our actions have the power to create positive impacts and drive transformation. It was fitting that the starting point for the event was the global challenges we face today — issues that demand urgent action. Despite the growth in wealth, we continue to witness deepening inequalities, the rise of racism and intolerance, disengagement from public life, climate change, wars, and genocides. Such daunting realities, may be paralyzing, but we were almost one thousand people who refused to do so, and the event was the place to exchange experiences, learn, connect and reaffirm the notion that we are not alone in striving for change.

This marked my first attendance at the Philea Forum, and I was pleased to see debates revolving around questions similar to those we grapple with in Brazil—yet approached from different perspectives and yielding diverse answers. The guiding theme of this edition, “Power and Equality: A Balancing Act”, framed discussions on funding models, democratic governance, power dynamics, enterprise foundations, impact investment, intersectoral collaboration, and impact evaluation, among others. All of these topics were infused with the idea that philanthropy infrastructure has the potential to drive meaningful change. Unfortunately, attending all the sessions was not possible, as many ran simultaneously.

One discussion that particularly resonated with me was about the significance of funding communities and grassroots organizations. There appears to be a prevailing sense of urgency—a call to “think and act simultaneously,” as articulated by Bruno Maçães, Senior Advisor at Flint Global, and “go where it matters”. This underscores the importance of supporting those on the ground—community foundations, social movements, and leaders striving to transform systems. In multiple sessions, I heard about the necessity of fostering trust and embracing risks, acknowledging that less control comes with these approaches. Flexible funding, long-term commitments, and contributions beyond financial resources were recurring themes. Philanthropists possess connections, networks, knowledge, influence, and more—valuable assets that can be leveraged for greater impact. Collaboration emerged as a compelling strategy to accelerate progress, with inspiring examples of successful initiatives shared throughout the event. At IDIS, in partnership with the Mott Foundation, we have been leading the Transforming Territories program since 2021, a network that now comprises 15 community foundations and institutes operating with a geographic focus. Initially, the concept had to be introduced in Brazil, and it has since undergone significant maturation.

Philanthropy, as Adama Sanneh, co-founder and CEO of the Moleskine Foundation, aptly stated, “is a means, and we should aim to do something useful.” It is neither static nor evolving in a straight path. Philanthropy must have direction, yet remain adaptable and responsive to the challenges faced by societies. As discussions highlighted, no problem is ever definitively resolved. Issues like gender equality or the strengthening of democracy, though advancing, illustrate that progress cannot be taken for granted.

I often leave such gatherings feeling reenergized. Beyond the insights and inspirations, they offer reassurance in the existence of a committed community, ready to collaborate and united by shared goals and ideals. Interestingly, I also appreciate encountering more questions than answers — they are rarely straightforward or obvious. Thoughtful questions are invaluable, serving as catalysts to explore localized solutions upon returning home.

A few quotes that stayed with me:

“To change the world we must take risks and be dreamers.” Mall Hellam, Executive Director, CEO of the Open Estonia Foundation

“Most of the models have been invented; they must now be applied. Walk the talk and accelerate localization.” Alejandro Álvarez von Gustedt, Vice President, Europe of the Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors

“Trust is the air we breathe, and if we don’t have it, we are socially dead.” António M. Feijó, President of the Board of Trustees of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

“To be conscious is to be uncomfortable all the time. It is the start of a learning journey.” Adama Sanneh, Co-founder & CEO of the Moleskine Foundation

Perspectives from Brazilian philanthropy that inspire global practices

Publicado em 16 de junho de 2025 por mfleury

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Article originally published in WINGS, 28/05/2025

By Luisa Lima, Communication and Knowledge Manager at IDIS

In a time of global uncertainty marked by social fragmentation, economic volatility, and pressures on democratic institutions, it’s easy to feel detached from the possibility of collective transformation. In such moments, it helps to look at practices that, while not perfect or universally applicable, offer useful directions.

Rather than becoming paralysed by complexity, many actors in Brazil’s philanthropic ecosystem are experimenting with bold and adaptive strategies. The annual report ‘Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy’, released by the Institute for the Development of Social Investment (IDIS), highlights six key trends shaping the philanthropy landscape in 2025. These trends reflect urgency, creativity and, above all, hope in action – showing how Brazilian philanthropy is responding to national challenges, while offering ideas that may resonate beyond its borders.

Like many countries, Brazil is increasingly affected by climate change and its implications. Floods, droughts, and storms are becoming more frequent and severe, often overwhelming the capacities of public and private sectors to respond. In this context, a growing number of philanthropic efforts are moving from reactive aid toward more structured and systemic strategies. Local Community Foundations (CFs), such as Fundação Gerações and ICOM, are helping lead this shift, creating rapid-response funds that mobilise local knowledge, donor networks, and public-sector partnerships to provide both immediate relief and long-term recovery.

One example is the RegeneraRS Emergency Fund, created after the May 2024 devastating floods in Rio Grande do Sul, a state in the deep South of Brazil. The disaster affected 496 cities, displaced more than 150,000 people, and temporarily shut down the state’s main airport. The fund blends philanthropic capital with credit tools¹ to support small businesses and rebuild affected areas, a locally rooted model with potential relevance for climate-vulnerable regions elsewhere.

Transforming Territories leadership meeting 2025. Photo by André Porto.

Mental health is another critical issue. Brazil faces high rates of psychological distress, and burnout is increasingly common among civil society leaders and workers, especially those from historically marginalised groups. Local organisations are beginning to prioritise a ‘culture of care’, creating spaces for emotional reflection, peer support, and institutional deceleration. While these efforts are still emerging, they point to a global truth: social impact work cannot continue without emotional sustainability. The philanthropy sector must consider embracing mental well-being as a programme area and the basis for civic engagement.

Institutional capacity is also gaining prominence. In Brazil, the conversation around capacity building has evolved beyond technical skills to include strategic governance, leadership development, sustainable funding models, and adaptation to shifting regulations. Supported by actors such as IDIS, GIFE, and BTG Soma, many organisations are undergoing internal transformations. Flexible funding from donors like Movimento Bem Maior and Instituto ACP further reinforces this shift, emphasising trust and long-term resilience over short-term project outputs. Strengthening the backbone of an organisation, rather than just its front-line programmes, is proving essential to meaningful, sustained change.

Volunteerism, too, is being reimagined. Once limited to direct engagement with specific programmes, volunteering in Brazil is increasingly integrated into decision-making and governance. A notable example comes from the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP), the largest museum in Latin America. There, a governance overhaul brought business leaders and professionals onto the board, enabling a financial turnaround, the creation of an endowment fund, and a major operational expansion. This approach to strategic volunteerism offers lessons for other philanthropic ecosystems aiming to build institutional resilience and bridge sectors.

In contrast to some parts of the world experiencing political backlash against diversity and inclusion, Brazil continues to see important progress, albeit not without resistance. Initiatives like the Pact for Racial Equity are using ESG metrics to hold companies accountable, while large institutions such as Itaú Bank have committed to public targets and substantial investment in Diversity and Inclusion. These actions demonstrate how philanthropy can uphold inclusive values, even when political environments are unfavourable. In this context, resistance is not reactionary; it is regenerative.

Finally, the practice of private social investment is spreading. Historically driven by large corporations, the field is now seeing increased participation from small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which make up over 90% of businesses in Brazil. Programmes like Commitment 1%, inspired by the global Pledge 1% movement, encourage SMEs to allocate a share of profits to community development. New regulations, such as CVM Resolution No. 193 mandating sustainability disclosures by 2026, are also nudging smaller businesses toward more socially responsible practices.

Together, these developments reflect an ecosystem in motion, not by universal breakthroughs, but by meaningful experimentation, adaptation, and commitment. Brazilian philanthropy offers signals from a complex and deeply unequal society navigating profound change.

The question for global philanthropy is not whether to replicate these efforts, but how to draw from them, translating local insights into broader strategies that are just as bold, inclusive, and resilient as the challenges we all face.

1. The structure catalyses other initiatives on housing, education, business, and urban regeneration, by making donations and absorbing the risks. It’s the ‘fund of funds’.

IDIS Endorses International Manifesto in Solidarity with Those Affected by Funding Cuts

Publicado em 19 de maio de 2025 por lxavier

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Civil society organizations (CSOs) play a crucial role in promoting social well-being, defending rights, reducing inequalities, and strengthening democracy. The donation of resources is vital for the survival of these organizations, enabling them to continue their activities and achieve their goals.

Since March, however, when the first investment interruptions by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) were announced, we have witnessed successive funding cuts, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty. The abrupt nature of this process has impacted – and continues to impact – numerous organizations that relied on these resources for their survival.

In a context where resilience and adaptability are essential, the global network of organizations that support and develop philanthropy, WINGS – Worldwide Initiatives for Grantmaker Support, launched the manifesto ‘Philanthropy’s solidarity with those impacted by aid cuts: A joint Call to Action’, in solidarity with those affected. The document provides guidelines on how the philanthropic sector can offer support during this challenging time, while also contributing to the strengthening of the collective impact ecosystem.

Among the proposed actions are: more flexible and long-term funding models; the promotion of positive narratives through data and stories that inspire social sector action within society; support for community philanthropy mechanisms; funding of networks; and advocacy for a regulatory environment that enables the effective work of civil society organizations, among other structural topics that contribute to the sustainability of CSOs.

By endorsing this initiative, IDIS reaffirms its commitment to strengthening philanthropy and a Giving Culture, as well as to fostering a more resilient and autonomous civil society.

“I believe that collaboration and empathy among organizations are fundamental to facing current and future challenges. It is also important to protect the progress we have made so that we can continue generating positive impact,” emphasizes Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

As of early May, the manifesto has already been endorsed by 63 organizations from 27 countries. For more information about the manifesto and to become a signatory, visit the WINGS website.

Philanthropy as a key to responding to foreseeable tragedies

Publicado em 12 de maio de 2025 por mfleury

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Article originally published in Nexo Jornal, in Portuguese, 03/12/2025

By Karine Ruy (Gerações Foundation) and Paula Jancso Fabiani (IDIS)

January waters once again flood the news and, unfortunately, the cities and homes of hundreds of thousands of Brazilians. In 2021, floods hit southern Bahia; last year, Porto Alegre; and 2025 begins with São Paulo’s seaside and many other regions will face the same reality.

Brazilian climate-related disasters

In the last couple of years, Brazil has faced major climate change-related disasters. In 2021, heavy rains hit southern Bahia, and northern Minas Gerais, causing severe flooding. The government declared a state of emergency in 163 cities, leaving 26 people dead, 520 injured, as well as 28,224 people were left homeless and 73,032 displaced from their homes.

In May 2024, major parts of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, including the capital Porto Alegre, were affected by severe flooding, leaving 496 cities impacted, 150,000 people displaced and even the state airport underwater for a couple of days.

This year, heavy rains led to severe flooding in the state of São Paulo, causing transport chaos with many flooded streets and subway stations, as well as fallen trees.

On one side, there is the abundance of water; on the other, droughts. Even Amazon, known for its water availability, faced severe droughts, a cruel metaphor that illustrates the lack of financial resources allocated to emergencies such as these. In a scenario where extreme climate events are becoming more frequent and intense, exposing the vulnerability of our communities, 750,000 Brazilians have already been displaced due to natural disasters, whether being floods, droughts, landslides, among others. Globally, by 2023, the number of people displaced due to climate disasters had already surpassed those displaced by war, repression and violence, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

In this context, giving culture is essential. Strengthening philanthropy is crucial in order to promote initiatives that directly support those affected by climate change. Donations and the work of CSOs (Civil Society Organizations) are often the first responses in times of crisis.

The recent experience in Rio Grande do Sul is an example of this. Several CSOs quickly mobilized to raise funds and help families affected by the floods. We saw a peak in donations and historic mobilization. Even with their headquarters flooded, organizations coordinated volunteers, distributed donations efficiently and raised financial resources to mitigate damages.

Photo of a visit made by the Gerações Foundation to the Camélia Institute after the floods that reached Porto Alegre and the nearby region. [Credit: Marcos Pereira Feição].

However, these actions also highlight existing challenges. Some organizations, for example, lacked enough volunteers to manage the large volume of donations, while others saw a dramatic decline in the incoming flow of financial resources as the tragedy faded away from the media spotlight. This is why knowledge of the territory and the regional outreach of local organizations are essential to ensure that resources efficiently reach those who need them most.

A territorial-focused approach emerges as a systemic and long-lasting solution to connect donors with local organizations. In Rio Grande do Sul, the ‘Fundo Comunitário Porto de Todos’, created by Gerações Foundation, supported local CSOs so that they could resume their activities after the floods. Similar initiatives have already been carried out in other regions, such as the ‘Fundo de Chuvas’, in the city of Florianópolis, created by ICOM (Instituto Comunitário Grande Florianópolis), and the ‘Fundo Brumadinho’, managed by Associação Nossa Cidade, which have demonstrated the effectiveness of this type of strategy.

In our current climate reality, tragedies like these, unfortunately, tend to become more and more common with increasing intensity. Being prepared for the next crisis even before the current one ends is essential. Territorial assessments and the ability of local Community Foundations (CFs) to mobilize multiple resources and assets in a structured way are indispensable tools for dealing with emergencies. Local leaders, with territorial knowledge, therefore play a crucial role in the efficient distribution of resources.

Strategic philanthropy may be the key to swiftly and effectively responding to tragedies. If you want to contribute, donate to local organizations, such as Community Foundations. We know disasters will continue to happen. The difference we can make is in how we respond to them. Supporting those who are already on the territory, with experience and commitment to the community, is the best way to minimize the devastating effects of climate change.

What does ESG mean and how is it related to Private Social Investment?

Publicado em 12 de maio de 2025 por mfleury

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In 2005, during the ‘Who care wins’ conference organized by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in collaboration with the United Nations (UN), world leaders examined the role of environmental, social and governance values in asset management and financial research. On that occasion, there was a consensus that these three factors play a key role in long-term investments.

Hence, the creation of the ESG (environmental, social, and governance) agenda was officially established, along with the expectation that companies would report their actions consistently and proactively. The agenda ultimately brought the financial market closer to the sustainability debate. At the same time, this same sector began to consider in its decisions the risks that these issues might present to the value and longevity of private organizations.

In this article, you will be able to better understand what ESG is and how it influences – and is influenced by – other topics such as Private Social Investment.

What does ESG mean?

Although it was created almost twenty years ago, it was only in 2020, during the pandemic, that this agenda gained popularity, gaining strength especially from the stance of major economic stakeholders in favor of corporate sustainability.

First and foremost, it is important to clarify that when it comes to ESG, we are mainly talking about the relationship between the private sector and the financial market. In other words, when considering investing in a company, investors begin to incorporate environmental, social and governance issues into their decision-making process. These elements are considered important to evaluate the investment quality and non-financial risks.

Thus, it is understood that companies start to give more serious consideration to how they mitigate or more proactively address aspects that affect all stakeholders involved and interested in their operations, from collaborators to the surrounding society. This incorporates the ESG agenda into the company so that it is possible to achieve a more sustainable world and society.

“It’s not just about seeing, measuring and managing risks from a broader perspective, but also the active search for the generation of positive results in all of the aspects that surround companies activities”

ESG Practical Guide for Investors, Mattos Filho law firm

Environmental agenda

The ‘E’, meaning environmental, focuses on actions that aim to reduce and mitigate the environmental impact caused by companies through efficient management of natural resources, climate change mitigation, reduction of carbon emissions, waste management, adoption of more sustainable production practices and so on.

Social agenda

The ‘S’ on the ESG agenda addresses matters related to the well-being of people both inside (collaborators) and outside the company, in the communities where it operates. This axis aims to take a careful look at issues that vary from health and occupational safety, diversity and inclusion policies, relationship with the community, and even corporate social responsibility, volunteering and private social investment, among other matters.

Governance agenda

Last but not least, the ‘G’ addresses corporate governance practices. The principles of corporate governance map out practices related to integrity, equity, transparency, accountability and sustainability of its governance. Going from an organization’s boards and committees to its financial and accountability policies.

How does Private Social Investment relate to the ESG agenda?

Private Social Investment, or Strategic Philanthropy, is the voluntary and strategic allocation of private resources for the public good, these being financial, in cash, human, technical or administrative. In order to promote social transformation, this donation needs to be strategically planned, anchored to data, with predefined indicators, careful execution, monitoring of results and evaluation of its impact.

In this regard, when an organization defines the focus and strategy of their donations, it is understood that these practices will be necessarily aligned to the purpose and values of the institution, as well as approach all of the stakeholders impacted by or who impact the company’s actions.

But how does ESG fit in all of this? Well, through strategic philanthropy, companies can direct resources to projects, civil society organizations( CSOs) and initiatives that collaborate for the socioenvironmental development of the community. As we understand that strategic private social investment acts in line with the business, the ESG agenda acts as an ally in the development of these practices, measuring and mitigating financial risks.

It is a two-way street. As the ESG agenda contributes to a more strategic decision-making process in regards to private social investment, private social investment acts as a key tool for achieving ESG goals and pledges.

IDIS actions on the ESG agenda

With the impotence growth of the ESG Agenda, IDIS has been investing on the strengthening of its team with specialists and in the production of knowledge of this topic, including the development of methodologies which aid social investors in their decision-making process.

Access more content on the topic here!

In 2023, an ESG advisory team became official, offering technical support to companies and social organizations who wish to improve their ESG strategies, as well as connect them to their strategic philanthropy practices. Among the services offered are ESG strategy connected to Private Social Investment; risk and opportunity mapping; (re)structuring of socio-environmental projects; establishment of thematic committees; and alignment of indicators and metrics for consistent reporting.

Global Philanthropy Leaders Summit 2025: Embracing Risk in an Era of Uncertainty

Publicado em 19 de março de 2025 por mnegrao

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By Paula Jancso Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, and Felipe Insunza Groba, project manager at IDIS

The 2025 Global Philanthropy Leaders Summit, themed “Embracing Risk: Adaptive Philanthropy in the Age of Complexity,” has just taken place at San Francisco, California, from March 12 to 14, 2025. The gathering has brought together over 200 senior leaders, decision-makers from the philanthropic sector, and key stakeholders from various initiaves, to explore innovative approaches to philanthropy in an increasingly unpredictable world.

At a time of profound global challenges – ranging from rapid technological transformations to mounting threats against democracy and freedom — the summit highlights the critical need for bold, strategic risk-taking. The opening sessions encouraged attendees to reflect on philanthropy’s evolving role and the necessity for reinvention. More than ever, the sector is being called upon to step up and rethink approaches.

Brazilian delegation at GPF

The Brazilian delegation is notable at this year’s summit, with four panelists and 32 participants actively contributing diverse perspectives from their country’s philanthropic landscape. In that sense, many Global South participants – from India, Pakistan, Latin American and African countries – brought messages of optimism about the development of multistakeholder partnerships in their countries, in which uncertainty and adaptation have been present in daily life from decades.

A recurring theme across many discussions has been the urgent need to rebuild trust – a fundamental pillar for effective philanthropy. Participants also explored ways to improve the existing aid system and the orchestration role philanthropy could assume in bridging gaps between sectors. The significance of remittances was another focal point, reinforcing the importance of giving and collaborative action in addressing modern challenges.

Throughout the sessions, participants have been challenged to rethink their approaches to today’s pressing problems. Strategic empathy, reciprocity, and mutuality emerged as principles for fostering stronger, more resilient societies. How can these values be incorporated into philanthropy and governance?

While humanity has an innate ability to adapt, the effectiveness of different philanthropic models and strategies remains uncertain in an era of unprecedented challenges. Despite some hopeful narratives and success stories, there is a palpable sense of caution among attendees – a collective feeling of “holding our breath” as we navigate an unpredictable future. However, even amid deep uncertainty worldwide, investors and social leaders pointed to the need for action and social mobilization, by using tools like storytelling and a deeper connection to communities.

The Global Philanthropy Leaders Summit 2025 continues to push the boundaries of traditional giving, urging leaders to embrace risks, foster collaboration, and rethink their roles in shaping a more equitable world. As the techtonic plates of climate change, AI and global governance move towards unknown directions, the philanthropic sector was called to bring the stabilizer tectonic plates of hope and bold action to this shaky World.

Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy 2025 highlights responses to emergencies and mental health in the third sector

Publicado em 18 de março de 2025 por lxavier

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IDIS presents the fourth edition of the annual report Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy, highlighting relevant movements for social investors and other sector members.

Beyond reflections on the current landscape, the report showcases initiatives and solutions that are gaining prominence and can serve as inspiration and encouragement for new ideas.

Download the full publication:

The survey, produced with the goal of strengthening and projecting the future of philanthropy in Brazil, presents six key perspectives. Among the topics discussed, emergency situations remain a focus for the third year in a row. Mental health also emerges as a priority, with the understanding that when mental well-being is compromised, it also impacts civil society’s engagement in social causes. The theme of Diversity & Inclusion is another prominent issue in the report, amidst controversies and the apparent decline of this agenda in the corporate world.

The concept of institutional development for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) as a means to ensure the sustainability of philanthropic project impacts is another key point addressed in the report. In this context, various interconnected areas are highlighted that enable CSOs to adapt and thrive. Additionally, the involvement of volunteers in the governance structures of organizations has solidified as a growing trend in the sector. Increasingly, the role of volunteers is no longer viewed as a one-time action but is being integrated into the organizational governance and management practices in a structured way.

Finally, the report highlights the initiatives of Private Social Investment by small and medium-sized enterprises, demystifying the idea that such investment is only for large corporations.

“We have reached another year, facing head-on the urgency of challenges and the complexity of solutions. Society is fragmented, and many feel distant from the possibility of contributing to change. It is precisely in moments like these that philanthropy proves to be even more necessary, serving as a space for resistance, innovation, and, above all, hope in action. This project is an invitation to that action,” explains Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

About IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment

Founded in 1999, IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment is an independent and pioneering social organization that supports social investors in Brazil. Its mission is to inspire, support, and amplify private social investment and its impact, promoting actions that transform realities and contribute to reducing social inequalities in the country.

IDIS’s work is based on three pillars: knowledge generation, advisory, and the execution of social impact projects. These initiatives contribute to strengthening the philanthropic ecosystem and fostering a giving culture.

Community leaders from Brazil, Mexico, Peru, and Chile participate in exchanges to enhance their work in local territories

Publicado em 18 de março de 2025 por lxavier

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Peer learning is one of the key principles of the Transforming Territories Program, which supports the strengthening of 15 community foundations (CFs) focused on specific territories in ten states and four regions of Brazil. With the aim of expanding this collaboration beyond Brazil’s borders, leaders from the CFs participating in the program will engage in exchanges with leaders from Latin American community foundations, such as Fundación Punta de Mita (Mexico) and Fundación Comunitaria Cajamarca (Peru). In addition to these exchanges between foundations and community institutes, IDIS will organize an exchange with a supporting organization from Chile, Comunidad Organizaciones Solidarias. This initiative is made possible through a partnership with Conectando Comunidades en América (CCA), an institutional partner of the program.

Learn more about what community foundations and institutes are

The exchanges, however, are not limited to the international scope. There will also be exchanges between Brazilian FICs, promoting a deeper understanding of the territories and broadening access to knowledge generated by local practices. This exchange of experiences between different realities strengthens the support network and the articulation of practices that benefit the involved communities.

Among the objectives of knowledge exchanges with support organizations is learning about building networks of community/territorial foundations, as well as exchanging experiences on the implementation processes of FICs in different contexts, such as those in Brazil and Chile.

“Participating in the exchange of practices and mutual learning between Community Foundationsn is essential to expand local impact and strengthen collective articulation. By observing how social technologies are applied in different contexts and how they can be adapted to local realities, we see the transformative power of collaboration. These learning visits not only expand horizons but also reinforce the importance of building support networks that create broader and more lasting impacts,” says Rosana Ferraioulo, program manager for Transforming Territories

Visits to the territories bring additional layers to the exchanges, which have already begun virtually with foreign organizations. The first of these trips is scheduled for March, when representatives from the Chilean support organization, Comunidad Organizaciones Solidarias, will participate in a meeting with organizations involved in the Transformando Territórios program.

Throughout 2025, representatives from various FICs will make specific visits: Mundaú Mundo (Alagoas) will visit Fundación Comunitaria Cajamarca (Peru), while Instituto Comunitário Paraty (Paraty, RJ) will visit Fundación Punta de Mita (Mexico). Nationally, there will be exchanges between FEAV (Valinhos, SP), FUNDAES (Espírito Santo), and ICOSE (Sergipe).

Paula Fabiani visits Instituto Comunitário Paraty and their supported local initiatives

Publicado em 18 de março de 2025 por mfleury

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Community foundations and institutes, due to their nature of varied causes and focus on the needs and potential of the territory, generate a significant positive impact on the communities where they operate. The CEO of IDIS, Paula Fabiani, had the opportunity to experience this model during her visit to Paraty, where she gained a deeper understanding of the Instituto Comunitário Paraty (ICP).

ICP plays a crucial role in promoting community and territorial development by collaborating within a network, engaging with local social actors, and supporting initiatives in the city’s socio-educational and socio-environmental ecosystem. This model has been gaining increasing strength in Brazil.

During her immersion in the territory, Paula was accompanied by ICP leaders Andreia Estrella and Ricardo Zuppi and was in contact with projects from social organizations that are part of the ICP network.

“Having this exchange with Paula was an experience that brought us a series of positive feelings and insights. We explained how the process of creating the Institute happened, how we initially started gathering as an unofficial network to try to solve problems together. And the support from IDIS was fundamental for us to become an actual institution,” says Ricardo Zuppi.

The meeting was about sharing experiences and learning with each other

One of the stops during the visit was the Instituto Náutico Paraty, an educational and sports project that has been promoting social transformation in the city for 25 years by teaching sailing to children and young people in situations of social vulnerability. The initiative was founded and is led by Gibrail Rameck Junior. Another initiative visited was Rede Alegrias, which includes a project related to the Banco Comunitário (in english, Community Bank). This initiative, led by Instituto Social Rural Jardim do Beija Flor and coordinated by Mônica Calderón, strengthens the local solidarity economy, promotes financial inclusion, and encourages the circulation of the community currency “Alegrias”, driving sustainable development and community well-being.

ICP is supported by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment through the Transforming Territories program. This initiative by IDIS, with support from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, fosters the creation and strengthening of Community Institutes and Foundations in Brazil by engaging donors and civil society, sharing knowledge, and providing technical support.

“Getting to know the work of Instituto Comunitário Paraty was an inspiring experience. It reaffirms the concept that community institutes and foundations are essential for local development, as they work directly on the needs of the territory. It is rewarding to see firsthand the impact of the Transforming Territories program and support this journey,” says Paula Fabiani.

IDIS Participates in fundraising course at Lilly Family School of Philanthropy

Publicado em 18 de março de 2025 por mfleury

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Lilly Family School of Philanthropy held another edition of the Principles & Techniques of Fundraising course in February. Guilherme Sylos, Prospection Director at IDIS, traveled to Indiana, USA, to participate in this intensive one-week training. The course provided participants with a comprehensive overview of fundraising strategies, combining theoretical fundamentals with practical tools to strengthen philanthropic initiatives.

“The program deepened my understanding of fundraising as a strategic matter, reinforcing the importance of donor engagement and impact-driven philanthropy. The knowledge acquired will be essential for strengthening partnerships and expanding the social impact agenda,” said Guilherme Sylos.

Members of the February class

Although the training was centered on the American context, it addressed common and essential topics for organizations worldwide. Subjects such as donor behavior and decision-making, the science behind fundraising, how and when to make major gift requests, and the importance of long-term relationships were covered throughout the course.

During the sessions, key insights were shared on the distinction between pure fundraising and the creation of trust-based relationships, not just with the organization but also with the donor. Building a strong relationship can take months or even years before fundraising efforts yield more significant results.

TRAINING HIGHLIGHTS

Two key points were emphasized repeatedly by different speakers: Planning and Relationship/Trust Building. Asking for a donation or any other type of financial support should only happen after thorough research and strategic planning regarding the donor, whether they are a corporation, a high-net-worth individual, or a foundation.

Once research and planning are complete, a relationship of trust must be built. Through this connection, the fundraiser can also ‘leverage’ with the donor to open new doors. In fundraising strategies, these stakeholders are crucial, as they are already familiar with the organization and can validate its work.

This trend is reflected in the growing concept of Trust-Based Philanthropy, which emphasizes the importance of mutual trust between investors and social organizations, as well as listening to the people and communities impacted. Establishing this trust is also crucial for organizations to secure substantial support.

Another topic discussed in the debates was the new U.S. government and how its actions might impact American and global philanthropy. According to the speakers, there is a sense of uncertainty, yet also optimism. The more hopeful perspective is that foundations and philanthropic families will be moved to increase their international donations, which could benefit Brazil.

Together for Health wraps 2024 with an increase in the project portfolio

Publicado em 10 de fevereiro de 2025 por mfleury

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In 2024, Together for Health, an initiative by the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) managed by IDIS, expanded to all states in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil, covering more than 350 cities.

Overall, more than 100 million BRL will be invested to strengthen public health in the North and Northeast regions throughout a four year period. Through a matchfunding strategy, BNDES and other supporters made donations that have allowed the program to support 14 projects committed to providing healthcare services to the population assisted by the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS).

IDIS Together for Health team in September 2024. Credit: André Porto and Caio Graça.

**Primary Health Care in the Brazilian Unified Health System (*Sistema Único de Saúde – SUS***)

Launched in January 2024, the public notice ‘SUS Primary Health Care in the North and Northeast regions’, was an initiative by Together for Health in partnership with Umane with the goal of supporting projects that would enhance Primary Health Care in cities in the North and Northeast regions with less than one doctor for every 1,000 habitants. Altogether, those selected could receive up to 20 million BRL in matchfunding.

Selection committee for the Primary Health Care notice (June 2024). Credit: Rosana Fraga/BNDES.

Through a thorough selection process, which included Q&A webinars and multiple phases for participants, in July 2024, five projects were selected to receive financial support amongst more than 40 applicants. Therefore, by the end of 2024, some of the selected initiatives, such as ‘United for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer in Brazil’ and ‘NoHarm: Intelligence for Patient Safety’ were already starting their activities.

“We expanded ‘Together for Health’, an impact program in partnership with BNDES and other private organizations, with the goal of strengthening the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) in the North and Northeast regions of the country. This year, we approved ten new projects, five of them selected through the public notice with the support from Umane. Overall, we finished 2024 with 14 projects approved in the Program, with a presence in all of the 16 states of the North and Northeast regions, amounting for a total of more than 110 million BRL invested in those territories until 2026”, said Luiza Saraiva, IDIS manager of Together for Health.

Regional Impact

During the year, the Together for Health team also conducted a series of follow-up and field monitoring visits to the cities participating in the various projects which are a part of the program.

In March, a meeting in São Luís in the state of Maranhão, brought together partners and representatives from 21 out of the 24 cities participating in the Social Protection Health Cycle project. Already in September, the team made a field visit to Lagarto, Sergipe, to follow-up on the results of the Dashboard of Mental Health Indicators project, which concluded its activities in the previous month.

IDIS, BNDES and ImpulsoGov (project executor) teams in Lagarto, Sergipe. Credit: IDIS.

Closing Cycles

In addition to being a year of expansion and implementation of the program, this was also the moment of closure for two projects of the Together for Health initiative. The Dashboard of Mental Health Indicators, supported by BNDES and RDSaúde, and executed by ImpulsoGov, helped expand access to simplified data and information for mental health managers in the 10 participating cities, in order to better guide the management made by the professionals involved in mental health services. Moreover, the first cycle of Impulso Previne strengthened the healthcare management in 19 cities where it operated through the increase in the use of health indicators, especially the cytopathological indicator, which is essential for the prevention of cervical cancer.

Perspectives for 2025

When one door closes, another one opens. We finish 2024 proud of what has been conquered so far. Throughout the second half of the year, the Program saw the formalization of procedural stages of new projects. With the support from public and philanthropic resources to the selected projects, in 2025 , we will be able to expand our work even more, aiming for a more technological and democratic public health system for the North and Northeast regions of the country.

“During the first two years of the Together for Health program, we dedicated ourselves to structure processes, gather supporters and executors, and therefore were able to build a diverse project portfolio with ambitious goals aiming for the strengthening of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) in the North and Northeast regions. For 2025, we hope to empower our partner network, promoting rich exchanges, collective learning experiences and integrating solutions that can enhance the results at the front line. Furthermore, we continue closely following the results accomplished on the territories in order to better comprehend the views of our beneficiaries – SUS health care professionals – and to better understand the impacts of our actions”, highlighted Luiza Saraiva.

Succession in social organizations: act before it is too late

Publicado em 13 de janeiro de 2025 por mfleury

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Article originally published at Nexo Jornal in 23/11/2024

*By Felipe Insunza Groba, Juliana Santos Oliveira and Paula Jancso Fabiani

Succession is a challenge inherent to life and it is tangled with every part of society, being family businesses, where the conflict over inheritances can generate fights that are almost fratricidal, such as the one seen in the TV series ‘Succession’; in politics, where periods of leadership transition are often scared with instabilities; or even at the core of religious doctrines, such as the dispute between shiites and sunnis, the result of a succession conflict that occurred after the death of prophet Muhammad.

Humanity is filled with examples of how succession can be a decisive moment in history, shaping a nation’s future and triggering big social transformations and, in Brazil, it is no different. After almost fifty years of Dom Pedro II’s reign, the monarchy, lacking a well structured succession, started to slowly decay, showing how the absence of planning can weaken even solid institutions.

When we talk about the business world, the recent passing of Silvio Santos, one of the biggest names in Brazilian television and founder of the Grupo Silvio Santos, calls into question the continuity of the company as we know it today. Throughout decades, Silvio built a media and business empire based on his own personal image, leaving a great challenge for his successors to deal with his absence.

And when it comes to the social sector, this pattern repeats itself. Remarkable visionary leaders, gifted with passion and vision, are the soul of many civil society organizations. These people dedicate their lives to a cause and to the common good, captivate people to contribute with their organization and manage it as if they were their own children. However, this same passion that structures and drives these organizations can become an obstacle when it comes to succession, resulting in the so-called founder’s syndrome. This phenomenon, characterized by the founder’s difficulty in delegating responsibilities or preparing new leadership, can establish an extreme dependency on its main spokesperson. Like so, it negatively impacts organizational culture, making leadership transitions much more difficult. The syndrome may also directly compromise the decision-making process, jamming the institution’s capacity for innovation.

Ending or reducing the effects of founder’s syndrome requires a clarity of purpose and planning, with actions that ensure a progressive division of the decision-making process as the organization matures. One of the main approaches is the strengthening of the organization’s governance through the creation of a Board, in which the members are truly independent and have real voice and power in decision-making. This helps because the inclusion of people with different profiles and with no emotional connections with the current leadership allows the renewal of ideas and the mitigation of the excessive influence of long-lasting leaders or even founders, ensuring that governance will be more balanced and representative.

This process is usually not simple once the distribution of power is not limited to technical matters and must consider the emotional connections and vanities inherent to human nature. Gradually sharing responsibilities and delegating assignments before the succession itself is a way to prepare the new generation of leaders and build trust in their capacities, reducing conflicts and possible resistances. Many organizations chose the creation of succession committees, who are dedicated to proposing an action plan, mapping talents and monitoring the succession processes, guaranteeing that they are well conducted.

The organization’s leadership transition, however, must be incorporated into a broader succession and contingency plan. A founder’s withdrawal is just one of the possible changes that may challenge the maintenance of an organization, and a good succession plan must also oversee the replacement of other key leaders and collaborators throughout time. Identifying key seats inside the organization and developing individualized action plans for those positions is crucial. IDIS went through a succession process in which the founder worked closely with the new leadership and the Board to ensure a positive transition for the organization, preserving its culture, values and acquired knowledge. And we currently have been working on the succession process for strategic directors and managers.

To reduce the stigma and fear of succession conversations in an organization, it is important that this topic is frequently discussed in a respectful and honest manner, together with the governance members and collaborators. When it comes to external communication, the best practice is to inform relevant successions to different stakeholders, partners and donors who are assisted by the organization. This assures that all parties involved are prepared and aligned with the transition process, diminishing the feeling of rupture that might be generated by change.

Financial sustainability is another essential factor in guaranteeing smooth succession processes. Endowments represent a strategic solution to ensure the longevity of a civil society organization. These funds, when managed responsibly, can provide enough resources to pay future executives, especially positions occupied by volunteers who will be replaced by paid successors. Beyond ensuring long-term resources, the creation of an endowment fund provides safety to collaborators regarding the future of the organization even after a leadership change.

Although the succession process is filled with uncertainties, when embracing new voices and knowledge, organizations have a chance to review their mission, activities and practices, aligning themselves with the new social demands and strengthening their relevance. Succession, nevertheless, should not be faced only as a challenge, but also as a window of opportunity to promote innovation, a chance to learn with the past to work on the future. The lack of succession planning can compromise the longevity of social projects and undermine thousands of people who benefit from it or even depend on these organizations. To leaders who will be followed, direct involvement with successors is crucial. Engaging with the matter in a proactive manner and before it is too late is the only way to ensure the impacts made in people’s lives are perpetuated.

IDIS 2024 Retrospective: Social Investment is about people

Publicado em 10 de janeiro de 2025 por mfleury

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IDIS Team at the 2024 end-of-year reunion

Every day, we work to promote a better future for this generation and others to come. We dream, plan, act, monitor and evaluate impact, in the hope that we are contributing to a fairer and more supportive world.

In 2024, this work continued at a steady pace, but it was a particularly special year. IDIS completed 25 years, an opportunity to celebrate our past, recognize achievements, lessons, and especially, people. Inspired by the theme ‘Social Investment is about people’, we guided our celebrations with a campaign that reflected what is crucial in our work.

Social Investment is about people because it is made by the actions of people for people. Because it requires dialogue, involves disagreements and consensus, mistakes and success. Because it brings us closer and moves us. This message guided us through in-person and online actions, including an unforgettable event at MASP – Museu de Arte de São Paulo Assis Chateaubriand, a cultural landmark in São Paulo, with reunited those who have been and still are a part of the institute’s history. It was also on this occasion that we launched our institutional video. Watch it here!

A legacy for the future: Promoting Philanthropy Endowment

This historical year was the perfect moment to make an age-old dream come to reality: the creation of the Promoting Philanthropy Endowment. This is the first Brazilian fund dedicated to strengthening philanthropy and giving culture in the country. With a solid financial foundation, we can guarantee project sustainability, multiply initiatives and reach even more people, promoting long-lasting changes. This is a legacy that belongs to all of those who believe in the transformative power of philanthropy.

The endowment closed of the year of 2024 with a patrimony of 9.3 million BRL (approximately 1.52 million USD), which was a result of contributions of varying amounts and a matching made with the donation received from american philanthropist, MacKenzie Scott.

Want to be a part of this history? Click here to donate

Concrete results in an intense year

Our actions are based on a tripod. Our action pillars, advisory, knowledge and social impact projects, have brought us to where we are today. In offering advisory, we followed our mission of supporting social investors to generate more impact through their philanthropic journey. Through the generation of knowledge we have elaborated for the sector materials with the best practices and data so that organizations can generate more positive impact. Moreover, when developing social impact projects with our partners, we were able to deliver actions that strengthen the philanthropic ecosystem as well as giving culture, benefiting organizations, communities and people. Each pillar fuels the others.

This year only, our advisory team carried out 47 projects in areas such as strategic planning, ESG agenda, endowments, grantmaking management and impact assessment. We were also able to maintain an average score of over 9 when it came to client reviews, with a high index of recommendations, reflecting our commitment to the quality of projects.

Get to know some success cases here!

Together with Instituto MOL, we launched Commitment 1%, inspired by the North American movement Pledge 1%. So far, 15 companies have already committed to the movement, including those who already donate at least 1% of their annual net profit and those who have committed to reaching this donation level within two years. The initiative is supported by partners such as Cyrela, Instituto Cyrela, PwC and RD Saúde, as well as other companies from the sector who are a part of the consulting committee.

Through the program Transforming Territories, which is dedicated to strengthening community institutes and foundations in Brazil, we brought together participants from all over the country in São Paulo for the Transforming Territories Seminar. (which compiles four years of experience from this project – ‘How to create a community foundation or institute’ – (available exclusively in Portuguese). This practical guide was developed based on the examples of those who have already transformed their communities.

Representatives of the participants of the Transforming Territories program. Credit: André Porto.

We expanded Together for Health, a partnership with BNDES which will allocate more than 100 million BRL (around 16.4 million USD) to strengthen public health in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil in a 4 year period. Through donations from BNDES and other supporters, the program will benefit 14 civil society organizations committed to the healthcare of users from the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS).

Great advances were also made through advocacy. While leading the Brazilian Endowment Coalition, we achieved an important victory: the approval of Law 2,440/23 at the Committee on Economic Affairs (CAE) of the Senate, and now it follows to the Chamber of Deputies. We also joined the Alliance for the Strengthening of Civil Society, led by Beja Institute, working for the inclusion of this agenda in the Brazilian Tax Reform.

Throughout the year, we launched 39 diverse knowledge contents, including publications such as Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy; Private Social Investment: Strategies that leverage the ESG Agenda and the 3rd edition of the Endowment Performance Yearbook, reaching more than 80,000 people. A highlight of the year was also the realization of another edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, which, once again, reunited more than a thousand people in person and online. We also attended a number of local and global events such as Global Philanthropy Forum, African Philanthropy Forum, Impact Minds (Latimpacto) and Foundations for the Future (United Kingdom).

People and Diversity

With growing projects, also came a growing team. We closed the year with 53 people on our staff. Actions related to people keep this movement going – we had our second internship program, implemented a mentoring program and a development program aimed at leadership figures. An effort was also made to strengthen the IDIS Alumni network, composed of people who have previously worked with us, and who may continue to contribute to the achievement of our mission even from afar.

With three years of existence, our Diversity Committee promoted hearings, teachings and the third edition of the IDIS Census. Amongst its results, the survey identified an increase of 13 percentage points in the proportion of non-white people on the team, when compared to the previous year. Furthermore, among the actions carried out by the committee were a training session with Cida Bento for the board members, as well as a talk with Viviane Moreira with the IDIS leadership group.

Management and Sustainability

Keeping up with IDIS’ growth, we implemented new operational and financial processes. Internal policies have also been updated and a great deal of effort has gone into mapping risks and developing a framework with guidelines on how to deal with each risk identified.

We also completed our strategic planning process which will contemplate the next three years.

Recognitions

For the fifth year, we were recognized as one of Brazil’s best NGOs and, for the second time, as the best NGO in Philanthropy, Volunteering and Support to Civil Society Organizations in Brazil.

On Giving Tuesday, the highlight was Find Your Cause, an IDIS project in partnership with Instituto MOL. Through a partnership with Globo and their platform ParaQuemDoar, we were featured in all of the group’s vehicles, with the right to a promotional video!

It is always very exciting to write this retrospective, looking back at some of the main events of the year. It wasn’t easy, but it was a team effort.

To our team, board members, partners, supporters, family and friends: thank you very much! Each and every one of you is essential to this journey.

May 2025 bring hope, courage and achievement to us all.

Love,

Paula Fabiani

Philanthropic Funds: Definitions, types and how to differentiate them

Publicado em 9 de janeiro de 2025 por mfleury

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*By Letícia dos Santos, project analyst at IDIS

The effort to create a more culturally, socially, and institutionally favorable and fertile environment for philanthropy involves creating structures and mechanisms that can channel philanthropic capital, answering to the motivations and objectives of social investors, while strengthening causes and organizations of public interest.

This is the case of philanthropic funds, instruments created for raising and distributing resources which have increasingly become an alternative for companies, civil society and public institutions that seek to act quickly and robustly to minimize damage in emergency situations, unite efforts and enable social agendas, or ensure the sustainability of institutions and causes in a long-lasting way.

Philanthropic funds are created to receive donations, which may come from different sources and which are destined to provide sustainability to causes or to specific organizations. The basic foundation of philanthropic funds is to, on one hand, ensure reliability in the management and resource allocation process and, on the other hand, create, strengthen or diversify the source of resources for socio-environmental ends. Despite this general basis, they can take on different shapes and functions depending on its goals, which may hinder the understanding of what is a philanthropic fund and its different types.

In this article, we propose the classification of philanthropic funds based on their timeframe, dividing them into three types: temporary funds, permanent or continuous funds and endowment funds.

Temporary funds

In general, temporary funds are created to respond to urgent socio-environmental situations. They are designed to act during a determined time frame, aim to answer emergency demands and normally operate as wide fundraising mechanisms as a way to provide an immediate and significant response. The creators of these types of funds don’t always have a direct connection with the supported cause or institution but possess strong leadership and great mobilization capacity.

Examples of temporary funds are those created during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as the Health Emergency Fund. Created by IDIS, Movimento Bem Maior and BSocial, in 2020, the initiative aimed to strengthen the public health sector’s ability to fight the coronavirus. In seven months, the fund raised BRL 40,4 million (equivalent to about USD 8 million in that year) which were designated to the purchasing of hospital equipment, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for health professionals, medications and COVID-19 tests. (To know more, check out the Health Emergency Fund report and how to create an Emergency Fund, available only in Portuguese).

Temporary funds have also been used to minimize negative impacts caused by climate emergencies. The examples include funds created to support and reconstruct the communities impacted by the floods that hit Rio Grande do Sul – a Brazilian state – in May of 2024, leaving 497 municipalities impacted and 150,000 people displaced. One of them, called RegeneraRS, created by Instituto Helda Gerdau in partnership with Din4mo Lab, despite its temporary nature, aims to support the development of long-term solutions to strengthen the local communities.

Another example is Together for Health, an initiative of the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES), managed by IDIS, with the prospect of raising and distributing BRL 200 million until 2026 (approximately, USD$ 32,9 million). The fund acts to expand access to healthcare in the north and northeast regions of Brazil through notices and structured promotion. To that end, it operates through a matchfunding system, in which for every BRL donated by a supporter, BNDES will donate another BRL to the fund.

Permanent or continuous funds

The second type of funds are the permanent ones which aim to enable and strengthen a cause or institution continuously. Creators of these types of funds are usually closer related or aligned with the cause in question. Although these causes may be just as complex as those that are supported by temporary funds, they are seen as less urgent. Examples include matters such as equity or equality, democracy and environmental preservation.

These funds are instrumental in mobilizing a large number of grantmakers or organizations (them being formally recognized legally or not, such as social movements) around the promotion of causes. When it comes to permanent funds, ELAS+, Agbara Fund and Pacto pela Democracia are examples of those funds created by civil society initiatives and which are dedicated to social justice.

As for corporate social investment initiatives, the Fundo de Investimento Social Privado pelo Fim das Violências Contra Mulheres e Meninas from Avon Institute in collaboration with Accor, represents the transition from a fund initially conceived as a temporary one during the COVID-19 pandemic – when domestic violence against girls and women increased – and which became permanent afterward. It became a strategic instrument for the Institute due to its promotion of the defense of women’s fundamental rights.

Not only in temporary but also permanent funds, the resources that compose them are totally distributed to their own philanthropic purposes. This occurs through a continuous flow of financial and programmatic management, with the aim of ensuring the total allocation of the funds raised.

Endowment funds

Endowment funds are destined to promote long-term financial sustainability for causes and institutions supported. Unlike temporary and permanent philanthropic funds, its operations are not supported by the use of the funds raised, but instead by the management of these resources to generate earnings which will then be put towards the philanthropic activities of the fund. The goal is to ensure the preservation of the retained wealth to allow periodic withdrawals to support the public interest causes or institutions.

In Brazil, this mechanism gained strength especially since 2019, with the enactment of the Endowment Fund Law (Law 13,800/2019), which, as well as creating an institutional and safe environment for its operation, brought visibility for the matter and its importance. In addition, the law also regulated the partnership between the endowment managing organizations and the supported institutions who may be private or public entities.

Major Brazilian endowment funds were founded before the creation of the law, such as the ones from Bradesco Foundation and Fundação Maria Cecilia Souto Vidigal. These funds, created with the goal of building the private social investor’s legacy, are more than 50 years old.

Among other reasons to create an endowment fund are also the promotion of more independence and operational stability for organizations in the long-term, which is the case with the Promoting Philanthropy Endowment, created by IDIS to expand the impact of strategic philanthropy and so, promoting more positive social transformations.

When it comes to public institutions, many of the biggest state and federal Brazilian universities have been building their own endowment funds with the goal to promote even greater academic excellence through university extension projects, support for students sustainability in classes and other initiatives, such as the USP Endowment Fund.

Although philanthropic endowment funds can be divided into different types, in reality, many organizations use a combination of permanent and long-lasting funds for their projects and operations, meanwhile, temporary funds can, eventually, transform into permanent or long-lasting ones.

Therefore, the first thing to be determined when structuring a fund is its purpose: what is the goal for the mobilized resources? From this definition, one is able to outline the possible management and allocation of these resources to achieve the established philanthropic goal, comprehending the origins of those resources and the stakeholders involved in this arrangement.

IDIS launches the 3rd edition of the Endowment Performance Yearbook

Publicado em 14 de novembro de 2024 por mfleury

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The discussion regarding the significance of endowments, as well as their legacy and enduring influence on socio-environmental initiatives, is gaining momentum in Brazil. In an edition that encompasses a historical series from 2019 to 2023, IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment launches the 2023 Endowment Performance Yearbook, presenting a sample of 74 out of 107 eligible funds, which together total BRL156 billion in assets (around USD 26 billion).

Profile of the sample of endowment funds analized in the Endowment Performance Yearbook between 2021 and 2023.

The survey, aimed at endowment managers, reveals that in 2023 funds achieved an average return of 10.6%, the highest since 2020, and that most funds prefer investments in fixed income, cash and equivalents, categories that concentrated 81% of financial investments in endowment funds.

The publication’s foreword comes from Senator Flávio Arns, responsible for drafting Bill 2.440/23, created as a complement to Law 13.800/19 on Philanthropic Endowment Funds. Arns emphasizes that “endowment funds are essential for the social development of our country, as they promote projects and causes that transform the lives of Brazilians.”

According to the Monitor of Endowment Funds in Brazil, a project coordinated by IDIS, 115 Brazilian endowment funds have been mapped, and eight of these were created just this year. Endowment funds bring together a set of private assets with the aim of using income to provide long-term funding for the institutions and/or causes they support. In other words, the creation of an endowment fund perpetuates in the work of an institution or in support of a cause.

The Endowment Performance Yearbook provides a panorama of information on cash flow, allocation, returns, investment policy and the governance of endowments. According to the publication, R$3.5 billion was redeemed in 2023 alone, of which R$3.2 billion (around USD 550 million) was allocated for causes and R$270 million (USD 46.6 millions) was destined for expenses.

Five main causes supported by endowments analyzed by the Endowment Performance Yearbook 2023.

Education continues to be the cause that receives greatest support with 47 funds allocated to the sector. This was followed by research and knowledge, inequality/ economic and social development and social assistance. Most of the funds are concentrated along the Rio-São Paulo axis, with São Paulo accounting for 69% of the total number of participants in the survey.

“The Yearbook presents parameters and references for the work of managers. Now in its third edition, the publication is recognized as a guide for decision-making and has been fundamental to our advocacy actions in search of improved public policies in Brazil,” states Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

Regarding the number of donations received, in 2023, the 74 endowments received a total of BRL 517 million in donations, but the average amount granted per fund remained stable, dropping slightly from BRL 9.3 million in 2022 to BRL 8.8 million in 2023. Also noteworthy is the concentration of donations in just a few funds, confirmed in this edition by the fact that the five funds most engaged in fundraising received 75% of the donations. It’s no surprise, then, that fundraising continues to be the biggest challenge facing managers, especially those responsible for funds with assets of less than BRL500 million.

Another discovery revealed by the survey concerns the low ethnic and racial diversity in governance bodies. Representation from the black, brown and indigenous population on councils and committees is very low and did not exceed 8% of the members in any of the cases analyzed. The information presented in the publication was collected through an online questionnaire, answered directly by the managers of the equity funds.

Check out the full launch event (available only in portuguese):

Main findings of the publication

Bringing together five years’ worth of data (2019 to 2023), the survey confirms trends among several of the points presented and also highlights new developments.

Total donations to endowment funds have grown, but the average remains stable

For the second year running, the total volume of donations to endowment funds has grown. In 2023, the endowments received BRL517 million. Yet this increase may have been caused by the larger sample, since the average amount donated to each one remained stable, with a slight drop, from BRL 9.3 million in 2022 to BRL 8.8 million in 2023.

Assets grow fueled by donations

Between 2022 and 2023, the funds in the sample saw their assets increase by an average of 37.6%, a much higher percentage than the average rate of return, which indicates that the growth is largely due to donations.

The biggest slice of donations goes to a small group

The tendency for donations to be concentrated in a few funds is confirmed in this edition. The top five funds received 75% of the donations. This percentage is very close to that of the previous edition, which was 74%.

Endowment funds contributed BRL 3.2 billion to causes in 2023

The total redemption volume reached the expressive number of BRL 3.5 billion, driven by large funds (with assets of over BRL 500 million) which accounted for 90% of withdrawals. Of the total amount redeemed, BRL 3.2 billion was earmarked for the causes and BRL 270 million was used to finance the funds.

The Rio-São Paulo axis still dominates endowments

More than 80% of the endowment funds analyzed are based in the states of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, with São Paulo alone accounting for 69% of the sample. However, there are representatives from all regions of Brazil in the sample, encompassing 11 states.

Adherence to the Endowment funds Law model is still low

Only 19% of funds operate within the parameters established by Law 13.800/19, known as the Endowment Funds Law. The main reasons for not adhering are the lack of tax incentives and complex governance, both of which were cited by 13% of respondents. Taking into consideration that 70% of the organizations managing the funds in the sample enjoy immunity or exemption from taxes, not adopting the Law’s model could also be linked to a fear of losing their tax status.

Education remains the favorite cause

Education remains at the top of the ranking of favorite causes, with 47 endowment funds in support. Also among the top five are Research/Knowledge (2nd place) and Science and Technology (5th place), two causes also tied to Education. The third and fourth places are occupied by Combating poverty and inequality/economic and social development; and Social Care, both of which each receive support from 15 funds.

NEW ISSUE
Endowments contribute little to the funding sources of supported institutions

Among endowments created for the benefit of the managing organization itself, half contribute less than 10% of the funding sources of the supported institution, while 25% account for all funding. Among the funds that serve an institution other than the managing organization, 96% contribute with less than 10% of the supported institution’s sources of funding.

Portfolio allocation prioritizes fixed income and liquidity

The data confirms fund managers’ preference for fixed income, cash and cash equivalents. These categories concentrated 81% of the financial investments of endowment funds in 2023, maintaining a more or less stable level over the last five years, and giving the portfolio a high degree of liquidity, since 53% of the investments can be redeemed within 30 days.

Average return of 10.6%, the highest since 2020

The average return on the funds in the sample in 2023 was around 10%, with no major variations between the different asset sizes. This is the best figure since 2020, surpassing IPCA by more than 5 percentage points (4.62%), but around 3 percentage points below the CDI (13.04%).

Achievement of return targets in 2023 has the highest percentage in the period analyzed
Of the sample of 74 funds, only 43% adopt a return target. Among them, the IPCA + 5% is the most common target. In 2023, 66% of them achieved their goals, the highest percentage in the period analyzed by the Yearbook.

In-house financial management remains the preferred model for managers
Almost two-thirds of funds (63%) practice exclusively in-house financial management, and this model is more common among those with lower assets.

Funds with external financial management performed better in 2023

Contrary to the experience in 2021 and 2022, when the scenario of rising interest rates benefited the more conservative investment options usually preferred by in-house managers, in 2023, funds that adopted exclusively external management, or even those that adopt both management models combined, showed superior returns, far exceeding the IPCA and almost touching the CDI.

Responsible investment policy is more intention than practice

Only 23% of the funds in the sample adopt a responsible investment policy and implement it. Seven percent declare they follow the policy but admit that it is not yet taken into account across all decisions. Of those that do not have a responsible investment policy, two-thirds say they have plans to implement one.

Most funds have well-structured governance

Most of the funds analyzed have well-organized governance, 78% have Advisory Boards, 66% feature Fiscal Boards and 62% have Investment Committees.

Women are present in governance bodies, but in low numbers
Opening space to a variety of genders on boards and committees is a reality for most endowment funds. Women are represented in 83% of the general meetings, in 90% of the boards of directors, in 74% of the investment committees and in 60% of the supervisory boards. However, when the total number of women is compared to the number of men, we see that women don’t even occupy half of the seats and, in the case of investment boards, account for only 7% of members.

NEW CHALLENGES
Ethnic and racial diversity in governance continues to present a challenge

While women have already managed to win seats on most councils and committees, this continues to be a distant reality for the black, brown and indigenous population (BIPOC). They are represented in 43% of the general meetings, in 36% of the boards of directors, in 11% of the investment committees. However, the BIPOC presence is numerically very low and in none of the instances does it exceed 8% of members.

Fundraising continues to be the principal challenge

The greatest concern for equity fund managers continues to be fundraising, except for those with more than BRL 500 million in assets, for whom profitability is the main challenge. Profitability is also a concern for other funds, almost always appearing in second place, except for foundations with assets of up to BRL 10 million, which cite their own consolidation as the second-biggest challenge.

Managers expect to receive more donations in 2024

When asked about the outlook for 2024, more than half (56%) expected to raise more funds, and 41% said they expected an increase in the amount allocated to causes. Managers were more conservative on investment performance, with 38% forecasting an increase in gross profitability in 2024 and nearly half (48%) expecting last year’s figures to be repeated. But few were willing to risk pursuing profitability, as 88% of managers stated that the portfolio continues to present the same level of risk as in 2023.

Get to know IDIS projects in 2025 and find out how to be part of them

Publicado em 13 de novembro de 2024 por lxavier

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The generation and dissemination of knowledge is one of the pillars for achieving our mission. Through publications, technical notes, articles, courses, training and events, we inspire, support and promote private social investment and its impact.

And we can go even further, and generate even more positive impacts, if we go together. Check out the main knodwledge projects planned by IDIS to be carried out in 2025.

Giving Culture

Fourth edition of the largest and most in-depth quantitative study on the behavior of the Brazilian individual donor. The special chapter will focus on the influence of emergency donations in the giving culture.

Launch forecast: August 2025

Philanthropy and Private Social Investment

14th edition of the most important event aimed at the Brazilian philanthropic community. The program, which includes national and international speakers, will be held in a hybrid format. In 2025, the event is scheduled to take place on September.

Launch forecast: September 2025

Family Philanthropy

Brazil has a great potential for more strategic family philanthropy. In a workshop with active philanthropists, we will create a theory of change for engaging new people, identifying motivations, the necessary conditions for change and defining activities and interventions necessary for this to happen. The result will be systematized in a publication and widely disseminated.

Launch forecast: June 2025

Endowments

Advocacy action to positively influence the regulatory environment and increase the knowledge of society in general about the mechanism, through communication and knowledge actions. The initiative includes the Coalition for Endowment Funds, formed by organizations and people who support the creation of endowments in Brazil. The group, which today has more than a hundred signatories. The project runs throughout the entire year.

Philanthropy and Private Social Investment

Resumption of the regional agenda, taking concepts, trends and practical cases beyond the Rio-São Paulo axis. With the aim of inspiring philanthropists and strengthening regional philanthropic communities, we hope to bring together 50 guests in person in Manaus for a morning of debates.

Come with us! Contact us at comunicacao@idis.org.br to learn more and support the projects.

IDIS celebrates 25 years at the MASP in São Paulo, bringing together the Institute’s collaborators and partners

Publicado em 11 de novembro de 2024 por mfleury

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On October 3rd IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, celebrated 25 years in an event in São Paulo. The celebration took place at MASP – Museu de Arte de São Paulo Assis Chateaubriand, and was attended by collaborators and former collaborators, as well as many colleagues, partners and friends who are a part of the institute’s history. This was another stage of the campaign ‘Social Investment is about people’, celebrating not only the many years of IDIS’ history, but also all the people who have helped build and continue to do so with us.

Audience at the celebration in the MASP auditorium. Credit: Paula Miranda.

The anniversary started with the moving presentation by Maestro João Carlos Martins for an audience of more than 270 guests. He gifted the public with a performance of Playing Love, by Ennio Morricone, followed by a surprise presentation of the brazilian version of ‘Happy Birthday to you’, both on the piano.

Maestro João Carlos Martins at IDIS 25 birthday celebration. Credit: Paula Miranda.

The event was followed by speeches from Luiz Sorge, president of IDIS board, Marcos Kisil, IDIS founder, and Paula Fabiani, current CEO of IDIS.

“Today we’re here to celebrate IDIS’ 25th anniversary. But more than that, we are here to celebrate each and every one of us. To recognize everything that we have accomplished together and to bring new energies to continue our journey. […] It is about people because there is an empathetic approach. It is about people because it involves dialogue, collaboration, disagreements, consensus, mistakes and success, and it moves us”, said Paula during the opening of the event.

Then it came the time to talk about the future of private social investment in the country. The philosopher and economist Eduardo Giannetti stepped onto the stage to talk about the role of philanthropy in the current scenery. He commented on the complexity of today’s world, which presents us with major global challenges, and highlighted hope as a key mechanism to ensure that young people engage in a better world.

“I think we have to show young people how a life dedicated to others and to relevant causes can be beautiful and can bring an element of motivation”, said Giannetti in his opening speech.

Check out the video of the opening session (available only in portuguese):

Afterwards, a tribute was then paid to Lírio Cipriani, founder of the Avon Institute, and our longest partner. In 2002, IDIS supported the creation of the institute and, since then, we have been following its journey ever since. The history of IDIS has been written so far side by side with the one of the Avon Institute – currently named Natura Institute. The moment represented a tribute to all our partners who have also helped to build this history with us.

The programming also included the participation of a wide-ranging panel that dealt with the future of social investment through the eyes of the ones who support philanthropy as well as the ones who benefit from it. The session included Alcione Albanesi, President of Amigos do Bem; Benjamin Bellegy, Executive Director of WINGS; Carlos Pignatari, South America Director of Social Impact at Ambev; Claudia Soares Baré, Executive Director of Podáali Fund; Neca Setubal, President of the Tide Setubal Foundation; Raí Oliveira, Founder of Gol de Letra Foundation, who participated in video; and Selma Moreira, Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at J.P. Morgan.

The panel ‘The future of social investment: the view of the ones who support philanthropy and the ones who are benefited from it’. Credit: Paula Miranda.

One of the main points discussed during the panel was the central role of those supported by philanthropy.

“When we talk about the future of philanthropy, to Podáali [Fund], the future of philanthropy is to make indigenous people the main characters of their philanthropy. […] The name Podáali means sustainability, giving, because we already did this without knowing we were practicing philanthropy. […] If there is no respect, we are not making philanthropy, it is just one side trying to always be right”, says Baré.

Check out the video of the entire panel (available only in portuguese):

Over the last 25 years, IDIS has closely witnessed the development of private social investment and, consequently, of society as a whole. Everything we have achieved has only been possible thanks to the commitment, collaboration and collective work of different people with a common goal: building a better world with more equity. That is why we finish our celebration with a big toast to what we have achieved so far and all that we are yet to build!

IDIS Team. Credit: Paula Miranda.

IDIS is chosen as the best Brazilian philanthropy NGO of 2024

Publicado em 11 de novembro de 2024 por mfleury

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Efficiency and excellence in management are key factors for social organizations to achieve greater impacts on the causes they defend. The “Best NGO Award” recognizes good practices in governance, transparency, communication and financing, and, for the second time around, IDIS received the title of best NGO in Philanthropy, Volunteering and Support to Civil Society Organizations in Brazil. Besides the award in this special category, for the fifth time, IDIS was recognized as one of Brazil’s top 100 NGOs.

“Being part of the top 100 social organizations in the country is an even more special achievement after a year so full of lessons, victories and good news. We have dedicated ourselves intensely to improve our work, always searching to inspire, support and expand private social investment and the positive change it generates”, says Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

Guilherme Sylos, Prospection Director, at the award ceremony of the “Best NGOs 2024 Award”.

Throughout the year, IDIS has made multiple investments to strengthen the Institute and its projects. Among the results achieved are the constant monitoring of indicators, the investment in management platforms and the increased training and development of the team. This resulted in the creation of the Promoting Philanthropy Endowment, the expansion of advisory projects with new clients, as well as the strengthening of relationships with those who were already partners; the strengthening of social impact projects such as Advocacy for Endowments, Transforming Territories, Together for Health and Commitment 1%; in the creation of Promoting Philanthropy Endowment; and in important productions of knowledge, such as ‘Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy 2024’ and ‘Private Social Investment: Strategies that leverage the ESG Agenda’.

We congratulate all the organizations that work daily to promote socio-economic development in multiple regions in Brazil and who also received this award.

Check the full list here (only in portuguese).

IDIS, FEAC, and FEAV participate in conference with global community leaders in England

Publicado em 11 de novembro de 2024 por lxavier

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By Rosana Ferraiuolo, Project Manager at IDIS

Organized by UK Community Foundations (UKCF), the event ‘Foundations for the Future – Investing in Communities’ brought together organizations participating in the Transformando Territórios program with community foundations and institutes from various countries.

Community Foundations and Institutes have enormous potential to drive the development of the territories in which they operate, strengthening local communities in a systemic, legitimate, and sustainable manner.

This was the central theme of the UK Community Foundations (UKCF) Conference, an organization that brings together community foundations from the United Kingdom, which took place between October 8 and 10 this year. The conference hosted over 300 representatives and community leaders from various regions and countries. The discussions centered on the future of community-based philanthropic investments and their role in building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities.

To represent Brazil and the Transforming Territories program, members of the initiative traveled to Harrogate, England. Present at the event were Eliane Macari, president of FEAV – Forum of Assistance Entities of Valinhos, Jair Resende, socio-educational superintendent at the FEAC Foundation, and Rosana Ferraiuolo, IDIS manager and Program Manager of Transforming Territories.

The FEAV and the FEAC Foundation are part of the Transformando Territórios Program, an initiative of IDIS in partnership with the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. The initiative was created to foster the creation and strengthening of Community Foundations (FICs) in Brazil, engaging donors and civil society, sharing knowledge, and providing technical support.

“Participating in the Conference was definitely worthwhile! It is the real and true concept and application of community foundations and territories. It’s clear that the Community Foundations in the United Kingdom are organized to support this, whether they are small, rural, or large”, said Eliane Macari, president of FEAV.

A Look at the Future of Community Philanthropy

During the three-day event, community philanthropy experts from around the world gathered to delve into topics such as strategic philanthropy, social innovation, climate and environmental justice, youth collaboration, social justice, artificial intelligence, and other relevant issues. The central theme of the conference was “Foundations for the Future: Investing in Communities.”

“We had the opportunity to see many topics being discussed, things we aren’t even thinking about here. One of the things that really impressed me was the use of artificial intelligence as a decision-making tool, helping with document systematization, indicators, and so on”, said Jair Resende, socio-educational superintendent at the FEAC Foundation.

The program, which encouraged the exchange of experiences among participants, provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on common challenges and opportunities while being inspired by each other’s work. The integration among community leaders also fostered knowledge sharing between representatives from countries such as the United Kingdom, Africa, Romania, Serbia, Germany, Argentina, and others.

This approach highlighted fundamental aspects of collective development in networks and the strengthening of relationships with communities, such as the importance of collective insights and building relationships based on trust and listening.

“Representing the Transformando Territórios Program at this conference was essential for strengthening our connection with Community Foundations from various countries. Sharing Brazil’s experience and learning directly about their practices and inspirations, both in sessions and in individual and collective conversations, was an enriching opportunity that gave us inspiration for the development of FICs in Brazil”, said Rosana Ferraiulo, manager of the Transformando Territórios Program.

About Transforming Territories

The Transforming Territories Program is an IDIS initiative, in partnership with the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, for promoting the creation and strengthening of community institutes and foundations in Brazil, with the engagement of donors and civil society, knowledge sharing and technical support.

Learn more about the program and the participants at www.transformandoterritorios.org.br

African Philanthropy Forum and the role of the Global South in the transformation of philanthropy

Publicado em 11 de novembro de 2024 por lxavier

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In October, the African Philanthropy Forum 2024 took place in Marrakesh, Morocco. The event, a partner of the Global Philanthropy Forum – as well as the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum – attracted over 200 participants over two days of intense programming. Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, was one of the speakers at the event.

Under the theme ‘A New Agenda for African Philanthropy: Catalyzing Resources to Accelerate Africa’s Transformation’ the discussions covered topics such as emergencies, education, climate, income generation, technology, and gender, as well as the role of the Global South in transforming family, individual, and corporate philanthropy, as well as in impact investing.

Paula participated in the session ‘Philanthropy Driving Transformation: Lessons from the Global South’, alongside Antonio Bweme from WINGS; Marie-Louise Gourlay from Forward Global; Naila Taji Farouky from the Arab Foundations Forum (AFF); and Mosun Layode from the African Philanthropy Forum.

“Learning, hospitality, and energy were highlights of this event in a country full of aromas, colors, and history. It was an unforgettable experience!”, said Paula.

IDIS participates in ‘Impact Minds: Beyond Frontiers’ event, organized by Latimpacto

Publicado em 11 de novembro de 2024 por lxavier

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The ‘Impact Minds: Beyond Frontiers’ event, held annually by Latimpacto, took place this year from September 9th to 12th. Guilherme Sylos, Director of Prospecting and Partnerships at IDIS, attended the event along with 70 other Brazilian participants. The event was hosted in Oaxaca, Mexico, where approximately 650 impact investors from 36 countries gathered.

The event focused on several key themes aimed at reflecting on the gaps that Latin America faces in relation to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Over the course of the three-day meeting, discussions covered various important topics, including the role of businesses and high-net-worth families in generating greater positive socio-environmental impact, the systemic changes in today’s world, and how to tackle the challenges posed by the current global scenario. Additionally, the event explored the value of philanthropy in assuming more risks and diversifying portfolios, as well as cross-cutting themes like climate action, education, innovative finance, and blended finance.

In addition to lectures and roundtable discussions, participants also had the opportunity to join eleven learning visits to local communities and territories, accompanied by local actors such as the Oaxaca Community Foundation and the Secretariat of Economic Development.

One of the key highlights of the event was the presentation of significant initiatives led by Latimpacto, including the launch of the STEM Fund. This pioneering fund was created in partnership with Lenovo and Doug Miller, the founder of Latimpacto. Based on a successful collaborative philanthropy model led by AVPN, the STEM Fund aims to expand access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education for marginalized students in both Mexico and Brazil.

The transformation that 1% may cause

Publicado em 16 de outubro de 2024 por mfleury

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*By Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment

Private social investment – the voluntary and strategic allocation of resources for the public good – is essential for resolving deep gaps in the socio-environmental development in the country. Although the State plays a crucial role, there is no way around it. There are several challenges when it comes to providing what is necessary for everyone’s well-being, whether due to Brazil’s continental dimensions or the enormity of the country’s problems that need solving. And that is where private social investment may and must act: contributing to reducing inequalities and mitigating environmental damages. Only with the collaboration between government, companies and society will we be capable of addressing effective and everlasting solutions.

When we talk about private social investment, we’re talking about BRL 4.8 billion in corporate donations, that is, donations made by companies, according to the GIFE census 2023. A significant amount, but still below the figures recorded in 2020, during the peak of the pandemic, when the private sector’s donations exceeded BRL 5.3 billion. The historical figure reinforces that the private sector can invest more – and better.

Through this vision and inspired by the North American movement, Pledge 1%, IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment and Instituto MOL launched Commitment 1% in Brazil.

Launching event of Commitment 1% which happened in São Paulo in PwC Brazil’s headquarters.

The movement has the purpose of gathering companies that already donate at least 1% of their annual net profit, as well as those that have committed to reaching this amount of donations in up to two years. Cyrela, fama re.capital, Gaia Impacto, MOL Impacto, Pantys, PwC, RD Saúde and TozziniFreire Advogados are the first signatories of the commitment, as well as other organizations who are already at an advanced stage in the process of their adhesion.

Designed for companies of all sizes and sectors, Commitment 1% has the goal to drive companies’ involvement with the present and future of society, so that they will invest in projects and organizations who need resources to continue their journey. These are donations for essential organizations that transform the realities of communities in which they are inserted through education, culture, sports, healthcare, environmental and income-generating actions.

With private social investment, companies only stand to gain. Beyond the financial advantages, since it becomes easier to raise funds on the market, companies also improve their reputation, with bigger engagement from collaborators and a more solid relationship with suppliers and clients. It’s an ecosystem that positively impacts all stakeholders.

Creating possibilities for the growth of private social investment and promoting the habit of giving in the country is, without a shadow of a doubt, a path to strengthening organized civil society as an agent of positive socio-environmental changes. This journey can only be traced to people and businesses who believe in the mobilizing and sustainable power of strategic philanthropy and commit to the generation of positive impact. Just start by committing to 1%.

After all, it is now up to us to repair the mistakes of the past and build a future for those who will come.

What has to happen for Brazilians to see donations as more than just a response to crises?

Publicado em 30 de setembro de 2024 por mfleury

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Article originally published at Folha de S.Paulo in 09/04/2024

By Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, and Luisa Lima, communication and knowledge manager

Altruism means spontaneous regard for the welfare of others. In broader terms, it refers to one’s ability to devote oneself to something or someone without expecting anything in return, moved solely by compassion for a cause or situation. When it comes to altruism, we are also talking about donations.

In Brazil, the act of giving is widespread and socially acknowledged, especially in times of emergencies, as the one we recently saw in the floods that hit Rio Grande do Sul – a Brazilian state – in May of 2024, leaving 497 municipalities impacted and 150,000 people displaced. However, we still face many barriers, such as the donors’ distrust of the destination of donations and even the lack of alignment with certain causes and types of organizations.

What has to happen for Brazilians to see donations not only as a response to crisis, but also as a path for a more just, equitable and generous world?

The recently launched World Giving Index 2024, one of the biggest researches about donations ever produced, with millions of people interviewed in the entire world since 2009, reveals a scenario that may look optimistic at first, but shows that we still have a long journey ahead when it comes to generosity.

In this edition, WGI included data from 142 countries. Participants were asked if they had taken three types of actions in the last month: helped a stranger, donated money to a charity or volunteered their time to an organization.

Brazil climbed three positions compared to the previous year and now occupies the 86th place in the ranking. The report points to a slight 3 percent increase in the amount of people donating money to civil society organizations. Helping a stranger is still the predominant behavior, practiced by 65% of respondents.

The survey carried out between September and November of 2023, does not capture the donations made due to the climate tragedy in Rio Grande do Sul.

In 2022, with the country still under the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, we were among the top 20 most solidary countries in the world. At the time, the study highlighted that 3 out of four Brazilians helped a stranger.

However, since then, we have dropped more than 60 positions in the ranking. From this angle, it appears to be a discouraging result. But, in terms of absolute score, this was Brazil’s second biggest result since 2009.

The research also presents inspiring world parameters for Brazil. In the last two years, many countries registered meaningful growth in their levels of generosity. Indonesia ranked as the world’s most generous country for the seventh year in a row, with 90% of the population donating money to social organizations and 65% volunteering their time.

Interestingly, among the top 10 most generous countries, only two are between the world’s biggest economies (Indonesia and the United States of America), while Gambia, one of the world’s poorest countries, occupies the 4th place.

Public policies designed to promote philanthropy, such as tax incentives, individual donations matching, and benefits to the practice of corporate volunteering, have had positive effects in Singapore and can be an example for Brazil.

The potential of the Brazilian donor in critical situations and emergencies is unquestionable. However, to strengthen the generosity and giving culture in the country, the practice of donating must become regular.

It is necessary to transform the act of giving into a continuous expression of citizenship and commitment, capable of generating positive and lasting socio-environmental impact in our society. True altruism manifests itself when the donations go beyond the immediate need and become a part of daily life.

Intertwining lives. Weaving the future.

Publicado em 24 de setembro de 2024 por mfleury

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By Aline Herrera, project analyst at IDIS

There is a place for everyone at the table to promote social change. This was how Julia Brindisi, Head of Philanthropic Investments for the Americas at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) started the closing session at the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2024.

Interlacing the last loose ends that united the event, the final panel discussed the collaboration between different actors and different perspectives to promote a fairer and more prosperous world. The panelists, Grace Maingi, Executive Director of Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF); Cláudia Soares Baré, Executive Director of Fundo Podáali; and the aforementioned Julia Brindisi, presented different perspectives and tools that, laced together, are able to strengthen each other.

Watch the entire session

Governments, communities, individuals, philanthropic organizations and native populations can (and should!) work together to weave a better future. The cross-sector coordination was highlighted as a key element for the reduction of inequalities and the promotion of social justice. For Claudia Baré, the responsibility for the development of a proper living is a collective responsibility:

“We’re not able to live properly. Living properly is not only living well, living properly is making all of us, regardless of being Indigenous people or the quilombolas or non-indigenous populations, but it’s also for all of us to have a quality of life and for us to be able to make everyone have air that we can breathe in with quality. But all of these responsibilities are placed on the indigenous populations because of the forests, because of the Amazon where we are inserted. And I would like to say that it is not a responsibility of the Indigenous populations, it’s a responsibility that we all have: the Indigenous people, the representatives of companies and organizations that are here, all the citizens and especially the government, because the Brazilian government has the duty of guaranteeing our rights”, says Claudia.

Philanthropy is not any different: the community spirit drives us to strengthen together an ecosystem that looks out for one another. Grace Maingi said during the session that “true philanthropy is the one capable of promoting systemic change”. For her, philanthropy must speak the language of the communities and integrate itself comfortably into the local reality, serving as a mobilizing instrument. Thus, social investment can support people and communities so that they can become the protagonists of their future.

Beyond getting to know the work done by the three organizations present, the public of the closing panel was able to realize how the interlacing for the construction of a better future passes through, not only collaboration between different groups, but also through the combination of different tools. If, on one hand, TBI invests in advanced technologies and artificial intelligence to reach equity, Fundo Podáali values the traditional knowledge of indigenous people, and KCDF focuses on communities with the same goal. Even though they all seem like completely divergent approaches, reuniting them allows combining innovation and ancestral wisdom, creating new development perspectives capable of reinventing relations.

“In terms of the future of philanthropy, I think it’s important for us to recognize that technology will be central to it, to innovation. So, young people, the way we define philanthropy has to make sense to the people who are working and living with communities, it cannot be defined from a foreign land, it has to be understood. I’m a strong believer that we are all philanthropists in one way or the other, we don’t have to have large sums of money to be philanthropists, and really, it’s all about us giving hope.

Generosity is not equal to the wealth that we have or the size of our pockets, but it’s the richness of your heart, so if you are generous from your spirit, from your soul, then you’re able to give and to share and to shape. Philanthropy, I believe, needs to address system change. We need to be able to see the role of the support that it’s given to addressing some of those systemic barriers and challenges, otherwise, then we’re just continuing the ‘hamster’s wheel’. And just from some of the other conversations that happened earlier, is that if we do not then address inequality using philanthropy, we are just enabling a system that is not addressing some of the challenges of the world”, comments Grace Maingi.

Whether it’s encouraging governments, communities or indigenous populations, philanthropy shows its potential to generate systemic transformations. By constructing a philanthropy that will be more inclusive, collaborative and sensible to local realities – central themes of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2024 –, together, we will transform realities and untangle the knots of world inequality.

Photos by: André Porto e Caio Graça/IDIS.

Listening and collaboration: creating systemic changes

Publicado em 23 de setembro de 2024 por mfleury

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By Joana Noffs, project analyst at IDIS

Life stories and experiences trace paths that can help us face complex collective challenges. When it comes to philanthropy, one of the knots faced is the concentration of the resources and the power of decision making in the hands of few. What can we do so that more voices are heard? Should the ones who donate talk about the practice of philanthropy?

These where some of the questions that interlaced the session ‘In conversation with…’ at the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2024. Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, invited three women whose philanthropic practices have standout in terms of innovation and collaboration to share a little bit about their paths: Cristiane Sultani, founder of Beja Institute; Ticiana Rolim, founder of Somos Um; and Marlene Engelhorn cofounder of Taxmenow, a movement that advocates for the taxation of large fortunes, who participated through video.

The conversation began with Marlene’s deposition, which brought some provocations that helped shape the debate. A multimillion-dollar heiress, the young Austrian chose to donate the biggest part of the money she received in the “birth lottery”. The decision came after she questioned herself how she could redistribute her wealth, once her country does not tax inheritances – what, according to her, would be the democratic and transparent way of proceeding. The solution she found was to create a council with the participation of 50 people, chosen randomly at first, and then by representative criteria, who were responsible to collectively allocate 25 million euros to chosen causes.

See Marlene’s entire deposition

In her speech, Marlene highlighted the need for long-term changes so that the people being currently supported by the donations can stop depending on the power and wealth holders to establish a collective decision process to allocate the resources.

“Ask the people that are affected by the decision that I take, to be the ones to take the decision. (…) We don’t have to remain classical philanthropists. We can redistribute power, we can step back as wealth holders, learn to listen and become one of many, such as it should be in a democracy”, she states.

Reinforcing the importance of acting collectively and hearing different actors, Cristiane Sultani talked about how, in her philanthropic path, meeting, listening and collaborating with people were the key aspects that transformed her journey in the field. Since she founded Beja Institute, in 2021, she has tried ‘to philanthrope’, as she likes to say, in a strategic and collaborative way, although she recognizes that she is not always able to do so. The hearing of the sector’s demands, researching global philanthropic tendencies and inspirational success stories helped her along her own process. “I chose to to help the philanthropic sector through a mindset change”, she says.

Cristiane also uses her time, influence and abilities to support advocacy actions that favor the regulations for philanthropy in Brazil, as well as supporting causes such as racial and climatic justice. She states that the process of hearing throughout the articulation with different actors is a key element for the development of trust.

For Ticiana, the transition from a position at the family business to philanthropy was marked by a constant inconformity with social inequalities and the place she occupied. “I made myself this brave question: what is my role in the world? What can I do with these privileges? How will I be an instrument? How can I use this to serve society?”. Influenced by economist and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Muhammad Yunus, she chose social business as the way to fight against poverty, creating Somos Um, an impact business coordinator. This choice also considered the potential of countless existing projects, with a focus on collaboration.

“Nothing about us without us”. This is a motto used by the movements fighting for the rights of people with disabilities, which Ticiana uses to illustrate the importance of including those affected by decisions in the co-creation of solutions and joint action, also aiming to scale its impact. “From this place of privilege, we sometimes arrive in vulnerable territories or in some project full of certainties. And today I say that is arrogant and ignorant on our part.”

Another challenge that Ticiana, from Ceará – a northeast Brazilian state – set to herself was, on one hand, to bring the northeast of Brazil to the center of the philanthropic debate and, on the other hand, to bring the debate about systemic philanthropy to the northeast of Brazil.

“I understood that I can be a bridge, inspiring people in the northeast, where inequality levels are very high, and they many are not questioning it. They are doing charity work, which is important, is urgent, is necessary, but will not solve the social problem because it does not bring social justice, and then we preserve this place of power, which is not ideal, that we want to change and let people free, with the power of choosing for themselves”.

Ticiana cofounded Zunne, which drives social impact businesses in the North and Northeast, in partnership with TRÊ and Yunus Social Business Brazil.

Watch the entire session

In addition to being essential to listen to those affected by the decisions, discussing philanthropy in an open and accessible way was also considered a crucial aspect. Ticiana highlights her role in inspiring and mobilizing people by sharing her experiences and initiatives. Cristiane emphasized the importance of openly discussing issues such as racial equity, promoting transparent narratives to engage more people in the causes she embraces. Marlene, assertive in her positions, is one of the figures who brings to light in public debate criticisms of distributive models that exacerbate and sustain wealth inequalities, as well as environmental, gender and racial inequalities. The stories of the three philanthropists highlight the need for cocreation, participation, and collaboration to produce lasting changes.

Photos by: André Porto and Caio Graça/IDIS.

Emergency and Resilience: philanthropy strengthening communities

Publicado em 23 de setembro de 2024 por mfleury

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By Beatriz Barros, project intern at IDIS

Social investment is about people. Prevention and care are also about people. At the 13th Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, with the theme ‘Interlaced Philanthropy’, the session ‘Emergency and Resilience: philanthropy strengthening communities’ discussed the imminent climate and sanitary crisis, talking about how emergency funds and donations can ease and prevent possible disasters. Present in the session were Giuliana Ortega (Sustainability Director at RD – Raia Drogasil), Karine Ruy (General Coordinator of the Gerações Foundation) and Marijana Sevic (Head of International Strategic Partnerships at Charities Aid Foundation), as well as Vinicius Barrozo (Social Value Analyst at Globo and responsible for the donation platform ParaQuemDoar) as the moderator.

Watch the entire session

The discussion about the recent climate and sanitary actions, besides the increase in armed conflicts, highlighted the urgency of creating plans, strategies, and investments that can prevent possible crises. Karine Ruy talked about the work made by Gerações Foundation in the floods that hit Rio Grande do Sul – a Brazilian state – in May of 2024, leaving 497 municipalities impacted and 150,000 people displaced. The institution created ‘Fundo Comunitário Porto de Todos’ to aid those affected by the event. She emphasized the importance of listening to the demands of the community for the reconstruction and mitigation of risks, as she says in her speech:

“We understood that our role at that moment was to be a coordinating organization, building bridges between different actors in the ecosystem that had this operational capacity, but mainly identifying – through a very careful hearing process – what were the demands of the communities and territories”, she said.

Another relevant aspect commented was the role of Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) in countries such as Ukraine and Morroccos, that faced different types of emergencies: the first, an armed conflict, and the second, an earthquake. Marijana Sevic commented on the demand for donations in these cases, which are quick and must be met efficiently and safely, an activity CAF has expertise in operating in more than 170 countries.

Another highlight was the actions taken by RaiaDrogasil during the COVID-19 pandemic. Giuliana Ortega shared that, at the time, the company created an investment fund, together with the Institute for the Development of Social Investment (IDIS), to offer infrastructure to small and medium hospitals, ensuring that those structures would endure long after the crises. The company also supported mass vaccination in different cities through the ‘United for Vaccination’ movement. These actions led RaiaDrogasil to reflect on the donation of their own resources which made them establish their own Theory of Change, highlighted by Giuliana:

“Since 2021, we have established a policy and started investing 1% of our net profit in health actions in communities and society in general. […] Therefore, we had these new resources to think about and so we decided to institute our Theory of Change because the resources were increasing. We were going to channel this effort, and our main goal was to promote health”.

Further on in the session, Vinicius Barrozo presented the platform Para Quem Doar (For Whom to Donate, in english), which had a key role in integrating and directing donations during the pandemic and the floods in Rio Grande do Sul. The app connects donors and organizations simply and securely. In order to encourage giving culture, a partnership between Globo, IDIS, and Instituto MOL was announced through the ‘Find Your Cause’ campaign, which helps the donner identify the areas most aligned with their own values and convictions.

However, there are still some loose ends to interlace, such as the lack of commitment to donations and the delay of the planning and creation of emergency lines for climate and sanitary crises. It is crucial to encourage a giving culture that goes beyond disasters; to have a strategic view for the middle to long-term reconstruction period, when the initial commotion subsides and, therefore, so do the investments; and to highlight the crucial role of communication in emergencies, announcing in a clear and captivating way the purpose of the donation. These paths can help to untangle some resistant knots and strengthen ambition and strategies.

Photos by: André Porto and Caio Graça/IDIS.

Lack of collectiveness: the major ‘knot’ to be untied in (and by) philanthropy

Publicado em 23 de setembro de 2024 por mfleury

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By Daniel Barretti, project manager at IDIS

“What is the difference between living in a world that is a mess and a world that is messy?”. This was how Philip Yun, Head of Global Philanthropy Forum, started the opening session called ‘Philanthropy: untangling the knots of the world’, during the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2024.

The idea is that society is not essentially a mess, but rather is living in a planetary mess created by itself. The positive part of this is that the mess, therefore, can be tidied up, and philanthropy can and should have an important contribution in this. For that reason, philanthropic actions should be efficient in comprehending the current challenges and proposing solutions as they arrise.

Amongst the many meanings of the Portuguese polysemic word ‘nós’, one of the most commonly used is to say ‘us’. But the panelist’s speeches pointed out a meaning of the word contrary to this word: the lack of collectivity – maybe the main challenge we must face in contemporary society. Sergio Fausto, General Director of Fundação Fernando Henrique Cardoso, says: “Spaces that should be plural and democratic are far from being spaces that privilege the debate and public interest”.

The ‘knot’ of the absence of collectivity is that which implies a lack of dialogue, a lack of plurality of people, ideals, skills and practices.

To Renata Piazzon, Managing Director of the Arapyaú Institute, one of the main ‘knots’ to be untangled nowadays is the climate agenda. However, it does not stand alone.

The environmental issue is interconnected with an extreme lack of collective sense, where the false dualism of man and nature prevails. According to the panelist, philanthropy must first understand climate issues from an integrated development perspective where, for example, heat waves, drought, and alarming fire outbreaks are not restricted to environmental concerns but also to agriculture, public health, and economy. After all, the interrelation between these phenomena is clear. The scenario of severe drought and fires directly impacts the population’s health, as well as the loss of agricultural crops. The unraveling of this chain reaction also leads to rising food prices, inflationary pressure and the consequent loss of purchasing power and deterioration of the population’s diet.

Watch the entire session

Philanthropy should promote network action, articulating and mobilizing diverse social actors: the connectivity and collectivity as a solution to complex systemic problems.

If one of the main ‘knots’ to untangle is the absence of collectivity in society, this also seems like a challenge philanthropy itself must deal with.

Cida Bento, cofounder of the Center for Studies on Labor Relations and Inequalities, reinforces the importance of collectivity through the establishment of networks, and she goes even further defending a change in the power structure, bringing more diversity and, therefore, plurality of voices and interests to philanthropy. The search for solutions and the decision-making process lacks perspective from the part of the population that has been historically marginalized, the one’s who suffer with social, economic and environmental challenges in the current reality.

“[Collective and plural spaces] enable a more conscious decision-making and, therefore, generate a bigger impact”, completes Sergio Fausto.

A movement known as ‘trust-based philanthropy’ works in this path, advocating that funders should establish their relationships with benefiting partners through trust and collaboration, instead of conformity and control.

Rethinking the future of philanthropy

The educator and philosopher Paulo Freire once said that it was because of his love for the people and the world that he fought for social justice to establish itself before charity. It is not about demeaning charity itself, but rather knowing that by promoting charity as a consequence of a structure of privileges, there is a great risk that it serves as an instrument of maintenance, and even as an alibi for inequality.

Philanthropy differs itself from charity precisely through its strategic nature, capable of better allocating, qualitatively and quantitatively, private capital resources to public and collective causes. The question we must ask ourselves is: has it been effectively strategic? If the major ‘knot’ of the lack of collectivity, emphasized by the speakers, is present both in the current problems of society as well as in the way philanthropic actions have been carried out, this seems to indicate that the philanthropic sector also runs the risk of reproducing social power relations.

May harmony, reciprocity, collectivity and plurality be interlaced with a more powerful philanthropic thinking and acting process able to address current challenges, which are currently governed by almost exclusively private and economic interests.

Maybe it is time for society to rethink the subject of philanthropy (the white men, holder of financial resources and a certain professional prestige). After all, it seems urgent for us to look around and ask ourselves: who has the more to give and who has the more to receive and learn nowadays?

Photos by: André Porto and Caio Graça/IDIS.

Brazilian Philanthropy Forum reflects on the challenges and responses of philanthropy nowadays

Publicado em 13 de setembro de 2024 por lxavier

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Credit: André Porto and Caio Graça.

What loose ends can philanthropy help interlace? In what way can the use of data, technology and artificial intelligence promote social transformations? What influence does family philanthropy have? How can philanthropy help reduce inequalities? These and many other questions conducted the panels in the 13th Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, that happened on September 4th, organized by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, with the presence of influential people from brazilian and world philanthropy and organized civil society.

With the theme ‘Interlaced Philanthropy’, the Forum is organized in partnership with Global Philanthropy Forum and Charities Aid Foundation. “This is a space for learning, reflecting and exchanging experiences. Each year we seek to bring major issues to the debate, bringing together perspectives from different regions of Brazil and the world, and bearing in mind that it is these networks and knots that spread in our society the hope for a more equitable country”, emphasized Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, in the event opening.

IDIS also celebrated its 25th anniversary with the participation of the Institute’s founder, Marcos Kisil. “I realized the lack of technical support for active philanthropists as well as for those that might come. This was the motivation that originated IDIS”, he explained.

“Philanthropy has to engage with the multiple Brazilian realities”. With this warning, Cida Bento, the author of ‘O pacto da branquitude’, started her speech in the panel that discussed the impacts of philanthropy in reducing social inequalities, next to Renata Piazzon from Arapyaú Institute, Sergio Fausto from Fundação Fernando Henrique Cardoso, and moderation from Philip Yun from CCWA and Global Philanthropy Forum.

“Brazil needs an environment in which people from different sectors talk more among one another. We need to get together and understand that ‘whiteness’ it’s not transparency, it’s a worldview. It’s a way to seek for a solution. We need black people to be a part, not only of the group who receives the projects’ support, but also of the group who thinks in which direction we must go”, continued Cida. According to Yun, “We need to be aware of the fact that the world has changed forever. What used to work in the past, won’t work in the future”.

When it comes to the influence of family philanthropy, José Luiz Egydio Setúbal highlighted the importance of the dialogue between wealthy families for the resolution of social issues. “Philanthropy will not be the one to save Brazil or end inequality, but the ability of interacting and exchanging with multiple sectors will. In the case of family philanthropy, there is a big capacity to influence in the three different sectors: governments, companies and society”, he defends.

The relevance of philanthropy for the provision of public health services was highlighted by Carla Reis, Chief of the Industrial and Services Complex Department within the Productive Development, Innovation, and Foreign Trade Area of BNDES. Today, in Brazil, philanthropic hospitals are responsible for around 60% of the high and medium complexity care services provided by SUS.

Philanthropy and technology

“Do today’s technologies reach vulnerable territories?”, with this question Daniel Paixão, Founder of the NGO Fruto de Favela and of Hub-Periférico, discussed technology as a drive to social change. “We realized we were established in a city with one of the biggest technological complexes in the country, ‘Porto Digital’, but the most vulnerable communities were not being included in it”, he explained about his motivation to create the Hub.

Credit: André Porto and Caio Graça.

Luana Genót, founder and executive director of ‘Instituto Identidades Brasil (ID_BR)’, addressed the launch of Deb, an artificial intelligence program that answers your questions about inclusion related themes. “Deb helps us expand what we have been doing with impressive numbers, but we want everyone to be able to ask their own questions without fear of being canceled”. Beatriz Johannpeter, director of Instituto Helda Gerdau, was also present in the debate, and she presented investments made on social impact businesses, with the moderation of Alex Pinheiro, co-founder and CEO of ‘Ecossistema Square’.

Commitment 1%

The event also presented the official launch of Commitment 1%, a movement envisioned by IDIS and Instituto MOL, this initiative aims to engage companies to donate at least 1% of their annual net profit to civil society organizations and social causes. Twelve companies have already pledged to Commitment 1%: AB Mauri, brazilian affiliate to the international group Associated British Foods, Agência Métrica, Cyrella, fama re.capital, Grupo Gaia, KPMG, Mattos Filho, MOL Impacto, Pantys, PWC, RD Saúde e Tozzini Freire Advogados.

‘Unraveling the S in the ESG Agenda’ follows the narrative that highlights the importance of corporations to drive social and environmental change. The session had the contribution of Luciana Morelli, executive director of the Office of Equality at Salesforce for Latin America, Liane Freire, founder and CEO of BlendGroup and Mônica Gregori, COO at Global Compact Network Brazil, with the moderation of Tarcila Ursini Corporate Advisor and Co-Chair of the System B Council.

The Forum’s closing session proposed a debate that would intertwine life stories to weave the future, with the participation and deposition of Cláudia Soares Baré, executive director of Fundo Podáali, Grace Maingi, executive director of Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) and Julia Brindisi, head of Philanthropic Investments for the Americas at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, with the moderation of Paula Fabiani. Other issues were also discussed throughout the day, such as emergency response, the use of data as raw material, the role of intermediary organizations and the role of philanthropy in strengthening communities.

The event as a whole received 57 panelists and specialists in 11 different sessions, with an in-person audience of 294 people. Also, the live broadcast through YouTube received 1,398 viewers throughout the day. The event was made with Movimento Bem Maior as Master partner, RD Saúde as Silver partner, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, Fundação Grupo Volkswagen, Fundação Itaú, Fundação José Luiz Egydio Setúbal, Instituto Aegea and Instituto Sicoob as Bronze partners, as well as UNICEF Brazil as institutional partner.

Watch the full event here:

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The power of SDG 17: collaboration as the base of a resilient future

Publicado em 12 de setembro de 2024 por mfleury

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The article was originally published on the website ‘Um Só Planeta’

by Guilherme Sylos, Prospection Director at IDIS; and Marcel Fukayama é Co-founder of Sistema B Brasil and Member of the Board at IDIS.

Collectivity has always been an important value for society’s advancement. No wonder, it is part of the popular imagination in children’s tales and fables and through sayings like ‘unity makes strength’. It is not surprising the almost intuitive effort of adults to teach young people from an early age the importance of collectivity, as life in society is intrinsically linked to collaboration and mutual support. That principle, as basic as it may sound, needs to be constantly reinforced so that we can reach common resolutions for shared problems.

The United Nations (UN) considered this when defining the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The concept is heavily reflected in SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, which highlights the importance of partnerships as a means to accelerate and ensure sustainable development. It is precisely this last SDG that underlies and strengthens all the others.

However, data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (in portuguese, Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística – IBGE), reveals that, of the 24 indicators monitored by Brazil related to SDG 17, only six have been fully elaborated so far, while thirteen of them are under development or analysis. With only six years left to achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda, partnerships could be our answer to find part of the missing solutions by combining resources, knowledge, and experiences.

Creating connections between governments, companies, and organized civil society generates the strength to face challenges that would be insurmountable individually. Let’s consider, for example, strategic philanthropy. As the name itself suggests, it involves the strategic allocation of private resources for public benefit. These resources strengthen initiatives and solutions that would not always be feasible solely through state efforts, in addition to being more flexible, allowing the use of experimental approaches and the development of creative solutions to complex problems. The practice, in itself, is already very powerful when it comes to social impact.

It turns out that strategic philanthropy can be even more effective when supported by strong partnerships with other sectors, rather than remaining closed in on itself. Collaborations enhance the impact made by initiatives, making them more long-lasting and sustainable.

While governments hold regulatory power and public sector resources, philanthropic organizations contribute with a strategic view, agility, and private resources that promote social impact. Civil society, on the other hand, brings a direct perspective from the community, guiding the final allocation of resources and ensuring that solutions are truly aligned with the needs of the population.

One example that highlights the success of this type of partnership is Together for Health. Launched in 2023, the Program is an initiative of the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) managed by IDIS. In partnership with private donors, the Program seeks to gather funds to support and strengthen the Unified Health System (SUS) in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil. The perspective is that, by 2026, approximately BRL 200 million non-reimbursable (BRL100 million from partners and BRL100 million from BNDES) will be allocated to health projects that aim to benefit care activities for populations living in these regions of the country, including primary care services; medium and high complexity; urgent and emergency services and diagnostic support. For every real donated by other institutions, BNDES contributes with another real, in a matchfunding style.

The challenge is not simple, since managing these many stakeholders is a complex operation. To achieve the goal of Together for Health, it was necessary to create multiple connections between the private initiative, the public sector (Ministry of Health, municipal and state health departments) and civil society organizations that will be responsible for executing the projects supported by the Program. So far, the program has already allocated approximately BRL 96 million in resources, aimed at three projects that, together, will reach more than 300 cities.

Another great brazilian example of collective action and networking on behalf of structural changes is the global Catalyst 2030 movement, composed of about 127 social entrepreneurs and innovators committed to improve the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). In Brazil, the group joined in 2023 the ‘National Strategy Committee for an Impact Economy ’ (in portuguese, Comitê da Estratégia Nacional para Economia de Impacto – ENIMPACTO), to which it presented a proposal letter of how the network can contribute even further with public policies and the strengthening of the solutions.

An additional example highlights how the partnership between the corporate sector and the social sector can create new paradigms. In 2023, three B Corps: real estate developer MagikJC, insurance company Gaia Group and venture builder Din4mo, created the Organized System for Affordable Housing (in portuguese, Sistema Organizado para Moradia Acessível – SOMA), a non-profit organization that aims to offer social housing in urban centers.

The project has raised BRL15 million in an operation in São Paulo’s Stock Exchange Market (B3) in a real estate receivables certificate (in portuguese, certificado de recebível imobiliário – CRI) with investors such as Gerdau, Votorantim, Dexco, Movida and P4 Engenharia. The resources raised enabled the construction of a building in Largo do Arouche and is now providing social living services to vulnerable families.

We must recognize the essential role of joining forces and resources as well as collaborative work so that we can move towards a more inclusive, equitable and regenerative future.

Record levels of global generosity: Brazil ranks 86th, with Indonesia leading the ranking

Publicado em 22 de agosto de 2024 por mnegrao

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Around the world, a record 4.3 billion people helped someone they didn’t know, volunteered their time, or donated money to a good cause in the previous month, according to the World Giving Index 2024. Indonesia, Kenya, and Singapore lead the ranking.

The world’s most generous country is Indonesia for the seventh year in a row, where 90% of the population donated money to social organizations and 65% volunteered their time. Kenya is the second most generous country, rising from third last year. Singapore has risen 19 positions into third place, increasing its overall index score from 49% to 61%. Singapore’s positive results are a result of recent government initiatives to strengthen philanthropy and volunteering.

To Neil Heslop OBE, Chief Executive at Charities Aid Foundation, “The generosity of people around the world is evident in CAF’s latest World Giving Index, with the global index score at its joint highest level, only previously matched during the pandemic. The research demonstrates how people from all continents and cultures remain ready to help those in need, during a year of continued economic and humanitarian challenges.”

Brazil climbed three positions compared to the previous year and now ranks 86th. The three indicators remained stable, with a slight improvement of 3 percentage points in money donated to civil society organizations. Helping a stranger is still the predominant behavior, practiced by 65% of respondents. The survey carried out between September and November of 2023, does not capture the donations made due to the climate tragedy in Rio Grande do Sul. Although Brazil has ranked higher in previous years, this was the second-best score – 38%. The highest ranking happened in 2021, still under the effects of the pandemic, when generosity was high and forms of participation, whether through donations or volunteering, were more evident.

According to Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, “The stability of giving culture in Brazil is not surprising, but it’s interesting to see how public policies designed to promote philanthropy, such as tax incentives, individual donations matching, and benefits to the practice of corporate volunteering, have had positive effects in Singapore and can be an example for us.”

The World Giving Index is one of the largest surveys on giving ever produced, with millions of people interviewed worldwide since 2009. This edition includes data from 142 countries, in which people were asked if they had engaged in three types of actions in the past month: helping a stranger, donating money to a charity, or volunteering. This is an initiative of the British organization Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), represented in Brazil by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment.

The CAF World Giving Index 2024 also reveals:

-> The top 10 ranking countries only include two of the world’s biggest economies (Indonesia and the United States of America), while one of the world’s poorest countries – The Gambia – ranks 4th place.

-> Morocco saw the world’s largest year-on-year increase in donating money, with interviews conducted after the devastating earthquakes that hit the central part of the country in September 2023. Only two percent of people donated money to charities in 2022, but this rose to 18% last year, and volunteering rates doubled from 8% to 16%.

-> Greece is this year’s biggest riser, having consistently improved its ranking since 2013. It has a particularly high score for helping a stranger – significantly above the European average and particularly high among young people.

-> In the last decade, Ukraine, Indonesia, Chad, Russia, and China are the countries that most improved, each having recorded an increase of 25 points or more.

The top 10 giving countries of CAF World Giving Index 2024:

Indonesia
Kenya
Singapore
The Gambia
Nigeria
United States of America
Ukraine
Australia
United Arab Emirates
Malta

Download the report
World Giving Index 2024

Commitment 1% calls on companies to boost engagement in donations to social projects in Brazil

Publicado em 16 de agosto de 2024 por mfleury

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This august, Brazilian companies announced their pledge to Commitment 1%. Envisioned by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment and Instituto MOL, this initiative seeks to promote donations made by companies to civil society organizations. Amongst the companies that confirmed their commitment to the movement are Cyrela, fama re.capital, Gaia Impacto, MOL Impacto, Pantys, PwC, RD Saúde and TozziniFreire Advogados as well as five other organizations are already at an advanced stage in the process of their adhesion.

Inspired by Pledge 1%, movement in the United States that gathers more than 15 thousand signatories, Commitment 1% aims to gather Brazilian companies that already donate at least 1% of their annual net profit and those that commit to reaching this donation level within two years. According to the publication Corporate Social Investment Benchmarking, in 2022, Brazilian companies donated R$4,026 billion. That value equals to about 1/3 of the total donated by individuals, according to IDIS Brazil Giving Research 2022. During the same period, donations made by individuals reached R$12,8 billion.

“The goal

of this commitment is to contribute to the progress of private social investment in Brazil and encourage the longevity of donations as a strengthening strategy of organized civil society. The third sector plays a crucial role in reducing inequalities. Here, we have serious organizations that have been working for a long time in a meaningful way, and financing the work and strengthening of these initiatives is what will assure social transformation in the medium to long-term in the country. And this progress is the company’s responsibility as well”, emphasizes IDIS’ CEO, Paula Fabiani.

To the signing parties, the benefits of committing to the movement will be seen in several areas: access to a community of exchanges and knowledge, visibility to the actions taken and reputational gains with stakeholders and becoming an influential agent in your acting market.

“The companies that are committing with the 1% are providing and excellent example for others to follow the same path. As Ralph Waldo Emerson says: “Your actions speak so loudly that I cannot hear what you say.” – Aron Zylberman, Instituto Cyrela

At the same time as the recurring and strategic practice of philanthropy contributes to accelerating positive social change and strengthening civil society, companies can develop better relations with their contributors, suppliers and consumers. There is also potential impact on fundraising in the financial market (the strengthening of the S in the ESG helps drive valuation).

Launching event of Commitment 1% which happened in São Paulo in PwC Brazil’s headquarters.

The adhesion process includes the confirmation of the donations conducted and can be made online in the commitment’s website.

“Commitment 1%

is an ambitious and impactful project, capable of driving and accelerating the way that companies commit to the present and future of society, investing to strengthen relevant projects that need resources to keep going”, emphasizes Rodrigo Pipponzi, cofounder of Instituto MOL.

Access the Commitment 1% website here, available in English.

1% changes the world!

Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, is now PhD on strategic corporate philanthropy. Check out the full thesis!

Publicado em 16 de agosto de 2024 por mfleury

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Nowadays, it is increasingly relevant for companies to take measures that take into consideration social and environmental consequences of their actions. According to the ‘Corporate giving by the FTSE 100’ report made by CAF (Charities Aid Foundation), 69% of the public believe businesses have an obligation to support their local communities.

With that in mind, Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, is now a PhD, having completed a thesis in which she researched about the Corporate Donation Chain approach and the potential it has to enhance strategic corporate philanthropy. She completed her Ph.D. in Operations Management and Sustainability at Fundação Getúlio Vargas / São Paulo School of Business Administration.

“Academia has the power to transform. Through scientific rigor, which lends credibility to the academic world, research and publications have the potential to contribute to the creation of a better world. This is precisely one of my commitments: to always seek a deeper understanding of issues that can contribute to our society […] Through the lens of stakeholder’s engagement, I tried to help corporations to adopt a more strategic approach to their philanthropic activities”, says Fabiani.

The full thesis can be accessed in full here.

Internacional ranking recognizes IDIS as leader in social impact advisory in Brazil

Publicado em 15 de agosto de 2024 por mfleury

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The French agency Leaders League, specialized in the creation of rankings and in-depth analysis widely used by entrepreneurs and executives in their decision making process, released the ranking for leading Brazilian organizations in social impact advisory. The evaluation criteria was based on the collection and analysis of data.

IDIS conquered 1st place in the ranking, demonstrating our commitment in the support of social investors that are dedicated to the generation of social impact in Brazil.

In regards to strategic advisory, we offer technical support to families, companies and social organizations that wish to start or enhance their social investment. We provide customized and participative advisory in six axis: strategic planning and governance; ESG agenda; endowment structuring and long-term strategies for financial sustainability; project design; implementation and organizational capacity building; development of calls for proposals and portfolio management; in addition to Monitoring and Assessment.

“Initiatives such as Leaders League contribute to give visibility to the excellent work done by Brazilian organizations that generate impact through strategic advisory made with commitment, seriousness, creativeness and efficiency. This ranking is yet another tool to increase trust with social investors, both local and international. We are happy to lead the ranking, but also to congratulate the other organizations featured in it. The social impact advisory ecosystem in Brazil is vibrant, strong and diverse, and everyone contributes to it!”, comments Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

About IDIS

Our actions are based on the tripod of generating knowledge, offering advisory and developing social impact projects that contribute to the strengthening of the ecosystem of strategic philanthropy and of giving culture. We value partnerships and co-creating, and believe in the power of connection, of joint learning, of diversity and plurality of points of view.

Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2024: how to participate

Publicado em 29 de julho de 2024 por mfleury

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Brazilian Philanthropy Forum’s 13th edition has already set a date: September 4th. Once again, besides the in-person event in São Paulo that is exclusive for guests, the event will also take place online.

In the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2024, when IDIS commemorates its 25th anniversary, we celebrate achievements and look forward to inspiring, supporting, and amplifying private social investment and its impact.

Inequalities, Hunger, Education, Health, Productive Inclusion, Climate, Environment. Complex, interconnected causes. Amid this tangle, philanthropy, presenting paths, testing solutions, and interlacing loose ends. In this space dedicated to the community of philanthropists and social investors, we bring together leaders, organizations, and experiences that offer concrete and effective answers.

As a result, INTERLACED PHILANTHROPY is the theme of this year’s Forum. We invite you to be inspired by the stories that will be presented.

REGISTER HERE FOR THE LIVE STREAMING

CONFIRMED SPEAKERS

Among the confirmed speakers are Aline Odara (Executive Director of the Agbara Fund), Beatriz Johannpeter (Director of the Helda Gerdau Institute), Cida Bento (Co-Founder and Board Member of the Center for Studies on Labor Relations and Inequalities), Cristiane Sultani (Founder of Beja Institute), Giuliana Ortega (Sustainability Director at RD – Raia Drogasil), José Luiz Egydio Setúbal (President and Founder of the José Luiz Egydio Setúbal Foundation), Luana Génot (Founder and Executive Director of the Instituto Identidades do Brasil), Mariana Moura (President of the Family Council of Baterias Moura), Patrícia Villela Marino (President of the Humanitas360 Institute), Renata Piazzon (Managing Director of the Arapyaú Institute), Sergio Fausto (General Director of Fundação Fernando Henrique Cardoso), Tarcila Ursini (Corporate Counselor and Co-Chair of the Board of Sistema B Brazil) e Ticiana Rolim Queiroz (Founder and President of Somos Um).

In addition to international guests such as Grace Maingi (Executive Director of the Kenya Community Development Foundation), Marijana Sevic (Head of International Strategic Partnerships at CAF), and Philip Yun (Co-President and Co-CEO of CCWA and of GPF).

ORGANIZERS AND PARTNERS

The event’s organization is a joint initiative by the Institute for the Development of Social Investment (IDIS, in Portuguese), alongside the Global Philanthropy Forum and the Charities Aid Foundation, as well as the master partner Movimento Bem Maior; silver partner RD Saúde; and bronze partners Aeage Institute, Volkswagen Group Foundation, Itaú Foundation, José Luiz Egydio Setúbal Foundation, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, Aegea Institute and Sicoob Institute. Unicef Brasil is our institutional partner. Alliance Magazine is the media partner.

This year, the forum will again have Alliance Magazine as its media partner. Based in England, the world’s biggest philanthropy magazine will cover the event live and broadcast it in English on their YouTube channel.

BRAZILIAN PHILANTHROPY FORUM

The Brazilian Philanthropy Forum offers a space for the philanthropic community to come together, exchange experiences, and learn from their peers, strengthening strategic philanthropy to promote the development of Brazilian society. The event has gathered more than 1500 participants among philanthropists, leaders, and national and international specialists. On IDIS’ YouTube channel, playlists are available with recordings from all previous editions. Check it out!

IDIS 25 years: social investment is about people

Publicado em 26 de julho de 2024 por lxavier

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Let’s be honest, 25 years don’t come every day. In September, we’ll reach this milestone and, of course, we couldn’t let it pass without celebrating. It’s not just about the years of history, but especially about all the people who have built and continue to build it with us.

Throughout this journey, we have closely followed the evolution of Private Social Investment in Brazil and the world – its movements, advances, challenges. And everything we have achieved has only been possible due to the commitment, collaboration and collective work of different people with a common goal: to build a better world with more equity. In this celebration, we knew who should be at the center of the story: all the people who think, act, and drive social investment in forward. They are the protagonists – or rather, we are.

Some recognize us as a knowledge-generating institution. Others, as a advisor. Some know us for the projects we execute and nothing else. And there are those who define us as an intermediary organization. We are all of this, but above all, we are people who make all of this happen.

As we celebrate IDIS’s 25 years, we also celebrate the power of community, the strength of collaboration, and the unlimited potential of organized civil society. Social investment is much more than just a strategy; it is an expression of our shared humanity.

Therefore, we launch the campaign ‘Social Investment is about people’ and you are our special guest in this celebration.

Follow along and participate. After all, all of this has been built by us and by you, collectively.

Warm regards,

IDIS team

Pursuing the Common Good: check out the June edition of Alliance Magazine

Publicado em 4 de julho de 2024 por lxavier

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Alliance Magazine, a media partner of IDIS and one of the world’s foremost philanthropic media outlets, has released its latest edition focusing on the concept of the common good.

This edition delves into how philanthropy plays a crucial role in revitalizing the notion of the common good, particularly in times when it may seem elusive. Leaders from civil society and philanthropy share insights on how the common good is perceived in their respective countries and regions, and the ways in which philanthropy contributes to shaping it.

Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, offers a Brazilian perspective in this edition, adding depth to the discussion.

Learn more about this compelling topic in the latest issue of Alliance Magazine.

Study indicates a correlation between good practices of Private Social Investment and the ESG agenda

Publicado em 4 de julho de 2024 por lxavier

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Since aspects related to socioenvironmental impact and risk assessment started to integrate into the business strategy of an increasing number of companies, we have seen the market turn upside down and the subject gain strength and scale. It’s evident that the idea of sustainability and corporate social responsibility is not new, but the market logic has certainly changed since it was suggested that resources allocated to socioenvironmental projects of public interest should no longer be seen as expenses, but rather as investments that bring short, medium, and long-term returns. This is what we call private social investment – or strategic philanthropy, integrated into an ESG agenda.

We understand that private social investment practices have high penetration and can substantially enhance a company’s socioenvironmental actions. In other words, when done well, social investment can help unlock various other aspects of a corporate sustainability agenda. Empirically, the Third Sector has been working for years to demonstrate the impact that private social investment can have on an organization’s ESG metrics, especially in the social field.

To prove this hypothesis, IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment undertook to analyze the correlation between private social investment and the scores of the brazilian stock exchange’s Corporate Sustainability Index (in portuguese, abbreviated as ISE B3). Established in 2005, it is currently the largest sustainability index in the country and was the fourth to be created globally, undergoing periodic revisions and analyses according to societal and market demands.

The companies included in the Index are chosen annually based on a ‘best-in-class’ process — a term used to describe practices or processes considered the best compared to market standards. The Index questionnaire is based on SASB Standards and maintains consistency with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), one of the world’s leading ESG measurement standards.

The survey analyzed the 2022-2024 triennium of companies included in the index, and during the evaluation period, it was very rewarding to identify that the practice of private social investment consistently ranked among the top ten topics most correlated with the ISE B3 score. In other words, companies that perform well in strategic philanthropy tend to excel in overall corporate sustainability.

It is also interesting to note that private social investment practices are aligned with aspects such as ‘foundations of corporate sustainability management’, ‘business ethics’, and ‘trends and purpose’. The alignment with topics that naturally have greater cross-sectional relevance indicates the tactical nature of private social investment in formulating and implementing integrated corporate sustainability strategies.

A private social investment strategy aligned with an ESG strategy helps to materialize the organization’s purpose for its stakeholders, generating tangible results for both the company and society. A company’s investment in socioenvironmental projects can be a good way to engage different stakeholders and initiate collective agendas with the government and organized civil society, promoting benefits for both society and businesses. Furthermore, it helps companies clearly and robustly demonstrate their socioenvironmental commitments, signaling to the market and consumers a real commitment to different causes.

Despite seeming logical, this alignment is not an easy task. In addition to connecting actions with business challenges and brand purpose, strategic action must consider material business aspects and a thorough mapping of stakeholders and different ways to engage them. Moreover, socioenvironmental actions should complement efforts undertaken by the Third Sector, promoting exchanges that enrich the performance of all actors. Study data shows that this is a relevant task that should be given importance by the private sector, as it is highly correlated with comprehensive corporate sustainability management.

Other findings

Regarding the scope of this study and the adoption of private social investment practices, some results stand out. For example, the most adopted actions in 2024, representing 93% of the 85 companies that responded throughout the triennium, were:

– Considering collective agendas, such as SDGs, as a general reference for defining social investments;

– Working in partnership with the community and other stakeholders in the formulation or execution;

– Valuing the leadership of local actors and strengthening civil society;

– Contributing to the participatory construction of public policies and/or collective sustainable development agendas.

Additionally, it was identified that the performance in private social investment topics is slightly better, both in average and median, in companies that operate, where applicable, through philanthropic vehicles, such as a foundation or corporate institute with its own structure. There was no statistically significant difference in total ISE B3 score performance between companies operating via philanthropic vehicles and those that do not. We can establish that scoring well in corporate sustainability is possible even in the absence of specific philanthropic vehicles. However, these vehicles remain important structures (alongside endowments, another modality capable of fostering co-investment) that mark firm corporate commitments in the face of numerous social dilemmas and issues. They will be even more effective if they can connect their areas of focus to the business, constituting important elements to boost the growth of a broader and deeper ESG agenda linked to purpose that permeates the entire organization.

In topics involving consultation with stakeholders to define investment priorities and maintaining open channels with the community, the difference between companies that claimed not to adopt such practices and those that do was more than 10 points. Companies that emphasize the leadership of local civil society actors in their private social investment actions demonstrate considerably superior performance compared to those that do not consider this aspect. Local dialogues, consistent positive social impact aligned with the company, open channels, and transparency in private social investment move the needle and demand new perspectives from companies. However, companies need to further advance this agenda, seeking ways to engage with local actors, working in partnership with the Third Sector in a complementary manner. Private social investment plays an important role: by building relationships focused on the community and surroundings, in line with internal company guidelines and demands, socio-environmental investment strategies are more assertive, targeted, and promote improvements in territories.

Another discovery is related to the practice of impact assessment by companies. Companies that assess the results of initiatives supported through private social investment have a higher performance in the ISE B3 and also showed a relatively high increase in performance between 2022 and 2024. In practical terms, systematic collection of impact indicators allows for reflective and strategic examination of the efficiency of a given social intervention, thereby enabling periodic review and improvement aimed at maximizing the desired and generated social benefits. Often, social projects end up generating unintended positive impacts that would go unnoticed without an evaluation that takes into account, for example, the beneficiaries’ perception of the changes in their lives.

In summary, we empirically know that by connecting the concept and practices of private social investment with the organization’s purpose and institutional values, considering the economic bias of the business and the perspective of key stakeholders regarding the socio-environmental value to be created by the company, it is possible to enhance the organization’s capacity to generate positive impact for society and real value for the business. This relationship is now quantitatively proven, considering an extremely relevant sample of Brazilian companies.

IDIS maintains the view that to catalyze lasting social transformation, Private Social Investment must be accompanied by a robust strategic planning, grounded in specific data and indicators, implemented with precision, and accompanied by monitoring and evaluation of its results and impact.

Access the full study, available only in portuguese here.

Socioenvironmental: the integration of social and environmental spheres

Publicado em 3 de julho de 2024 por lxavier

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The pursuit of sustainability has become a fundamental goal for organizations, considering its value to society and the preservation of natural resources and the environment, as well as its benefits for organizational development and growth. This pursuit encompasses the economic, social and environmental spheres, which, although often addressed separately, are highly interconnected.

The current trend towards adopting sustainable practices is further driven by the urgency of climate change. According to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), climate change is undeniably caused by unsustainable energy use, land use changes, unequal consumption and production patterns, and lifestyles, resulting in high greenhouse gas emissions. These changes have already caused a 1.1ºC increase in the planet’s average surface temperature compared to pre-industrial levels. Their impacts range from human health and well-being to biodiversity and ecosystems.

But how do the environmental and social spheres intersect?

In general, it’s true that all economic activities have some environmental and social impact. With the evolution of corporate sustainability, now incorporated into the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) agenda, organizations seek to mitigate their impacts within the social and environmental spheres through initiatives ranging from diversifying product and supplier portfolios to engaging stakeholders and implementing private social investment (PSI) actions. The complexity of the correlation between the social and environmental spheres necessitates equally complex initiatives.

While the environment is commonly understood as the natural world elements (water, air, soil, plant and animal biodiversity), its concept is broader. It typically includes not only these natural elements but also the relationships between people and their living environment, considering political, economic, cultural, and health aspects. Thus, addressing environmental initiatives inherently involves an integrated approach that also considers the social dimension.

Changes in the social sphere often correlate with environmental impacts at various levels, and vice versa. Among the various possible impacts and correlations, the following example focuses on water-related impacts, specifically alterations in water resources:

The interconnected functioning of these spheres is evid

ent through this example. But could an environmental project operate, even in a remote location, without direct interactions with society? Initially, it may seem possible; however, considering the systemic impacts of the environment — namely, the natural environment and its relationships with society — it becomes clear that the interdependence of these concepts is inherent. The same applies to social projects; it is necessary to consider environmental factors.

Therefore, the need for a joint approach to these spheres is evident. Failing to consider the socio-environmental interconnectedness within projects and initiatives diminishes their effective impacts and their ability to reach broad audiences. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has emphasized the importance of integrating all sectors of society and implementing cross-cutting actions that address the complexity of interdependencies among climate, ecosystems, biodiversity, and human societies, particularly concerning climate change. This also applies to socio-environmental integration.

The role of philanthropy and Private Social Investment

The interdependence of spheres and, consequently, the causes associated with each of them, form a complex issue in which philanthropy and private social investment are already well equipped to act, without losing focus on the beneficiaries, namely those most affected by socio-environmental damage.

In our material, Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy 2024, we address the poly-crisis generated by this interdependence of spheres, highlighting the cross-cutting nature of causes and responses, and emphasizing the incorporation of these themes into our ecosystem’s strategic approach. Including connections, stakeholders, causes, and consequences in projects enables more informed decisions for generating structural changes.

This cross-cutting approach can be observed, for instance, in the Water Grant from the Mosaic Institute, which encourages community projects focused on water resource management and sustainable agriculture.

In the 2024 grant, the Institute offers up to R$45,000 for at least 12 projects contributing to SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation – of the UN’s Agenda 2030. Projects aim to promote best practices in water resource management, increase access to water and sanitation, expand sewage and water treatment systems, preserve and restore water-related ecosystems, provide professional development for civil society organizations, and foster intersectoral cooperation.

IDIS in promoting socio-environmental action

Through well-planned and monitored private social investment, companies can navigate the interplay between Social and Environmental aspects, demonstrating their socio-environmental commitment to key stakeholders. Furthermore, they can engage stakeholders in collaborative processes to address complex social and environmental issues.

IDIS provides technical support to families, companies, and social organizations looking to initiate or enhance their private social investment with an integrated view of Environmental and Social aspects. We operate in a customized and participatory manner across six areas of action.

For more details, please contact us at comunicacao@idis.org.br

How to create a consistent Theory of Change for your impact assessment?

Publicado em 3 de julho de 2024 por lxavier

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by Isadora Pagy, Monitoring and Evaluation Analyst at IDIS

Theory of Change (ToC) is a highly valuable tool for both strategic planning of an initiative and impact assessment. The process of constructing it can be challenging and raise many questions, so we have compiled a series of tips to assist you.

First and foremost, it is essential to understand what Theory of Change is, its purpose, and how to systematize it.

When we use ToC to evaluate the impact of a particular initiative, it supports a deeper understanding of the causal relationships within the project or program in question. It provides a summary of the target audiences that benefited from the initiative, the activities that were carried out, the expected impacts, and the strategic objective to be achieved.

Understanding who the stakeholders are

Thus, the systematization process begins with mapping out the stakeholders or interested parties involved in the project. We seek to understand who the direct beneficiaries, indirect beneficiaries, implementers, partners, and investors of the initiative were. With this information, we define who will be consulted in constructing the Theory of Change (ToC).

1 – Differentiate between direct beneficiaries and intermediary actors. For example, many education projects conduct activities with schools but aim to impact the children attending classes. It’s possible that educational managers are intermediaries in benefiting students but not direct beneficiaries. Many projects struggle due to a lack of information and data on their direct beneficiary audience, stemming from not clearly defining their primary audience early in the intervention, which in turn hinders effective data collection and monitoring essential for impact evaluation.

The importance of a well-defined scope

Next, we move to defining the activities carried out by the project. It’s crucial to analyze the project’s materials and documents to gain insights into what was initially proposed versus what actually occurred. In alignment with this, interviews with the initiative’s technical team are conducted to understand how the activities were implemented and if there were significant deviations.

2 – Be curious! Understand what happened in practice beyond what is documented. Question the data and seek a deeper understanding of the project.

3 – Have a well-defined scope. If there were significant methodological changes, it may not be feasible to include all of an organization’s initiatives. Not all initiatives may contribute to achieving a single, consistent long-term objective.

Active listening

Once the activities are defined, we investigate what changes occurred in the lives of those who participated in the project or program. At this stage, interviews with beneficiaries are conducted to delve beyond immediate outcomes and explore medium- and long-term impacts generated by the intervention. Pay attention to the following:

4 – Practice active listening. Create a comfortable space for interviewees to openly discuss the impacts they experienced and avoid influencing them by presuming impacts that were not mentioned.

5 – Beware of double counting. Particularly in evaluations involving monetization, avoid counting the same impact twice by structuring a causal chain between mapped results and impacts. For example, in an initiative aimed at generating employment and income through vocational training, participants report increased technical knowledge in computing and higher income from jobs obtained through this new knowledge. Monetizing both changes (knowledge and employment) would double-count the impact of the same causal chain, thus overestimating the project’s impact.

Finally, we understand the strategic objective that the initiative attempted (and possibly achieved) through its activities. This can be achieved by reviewing previously collected data and addressing key questions: What was done? For whom? Why? With what ambition?

The technical team may not always share the same vision regarding the strategic objective, but by consulting key stakeholders and answering these questions, the objective-setting process can be facilitated. This leads to the final tip:

6 – Don’t forget to validate your understanding with the executing team. Presenting the ToC to those who implemented the project on the ground is crucial. It ensures everyone is on the same page and facilitates a well-defined scope, which will ease subsequent steps in your impact evaluation.

The process of constructing a ToC is as important as its outcome. By following these steps, evaluators gain better insights into beneficiary access and project data availability, allowing for the reassessment of scope and evaluation design. This reduces the likelihood of future setbacks that could strain evaluation in terms of time and resources.

Having completed these steps, we can systematize the Theory of Change visually and use it as a guiding tool for the remainder of the evaluation, whether conducting qualitative or quantitative research, for instance.

Responsibility and Trust: Get to Know Trust-Based Philanthropy

Publicado em 3 de junho de 2024 por lxavier

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By Aline Herrera, Letícia dos Santos, and Luiza Helena, members of the consultancy team at IDIS

Brazilian social investors who primarily focus on financing projects and initiatives of third parties represent less than 25% among institutes, foundations, and companies, according to the latest GIFE Census. Among social investors considered as hybrids – that is, those who both execute and finance projects (41% of the survey sample), the majority – about 55% – have a profile more oriented towards project execution than financing.

The volume of resources transferred to third parties in 2022 accounted for 37% of the total private social investment volume, equivalent to R$1.8 billion. More than half of these resources were received by civil society organizations (CSOs), chosen mainly for their reliability, transparency, and expertise in their areas of operation. When reporting the difficulties in investing in CSOs, social investors point to challenges in monitoring and evaluating initiatives, as well as the fragility in management or low capacity of CSOs seeking support.

On the other hand, the Peripheries and Philanthropy research: The barriers to accessing resources in Brazil, available in portuguese, conducted by the PIPA Institute in partnership with the Nu Institute, shows that 95% of respondents, responsible for implementing socio-environmental initiatives in the periphery, reported difficulties in accessing financing. These obstacles imposed on civil society organizations lead us to the following question: how can private social investment go further in addressing social inequalities?

One of the answers already on the radar of those considering the limits and advancements in the philanthropy field is simple: trust. In the text ‘Deepening the conversation about the importance of trust’, activist Joana Mortari indicates that there is recognition within the sector of the need to develop trust; however, it is necessary to move on to the next step, to develop the exercise of trust.

Thus, this text brings reflections on the role of private social investors, especially as grantmakers – that is, those who provide resources to third parties – in this path of more innovative and horizontal relationships, based on the principles of Trust-Based Philanthropy.

The Context of Trust-Based Philanthropy

“We believe that teams with frontline experience of challenges will know best how to put the money to good use”.

Mackenzie Scott

The highlighted excerpt is taken from a reflection by philanthropist Mackenzie Scott, following yet another of her billion-dollar donations. The American, who owns 4% of Amazon’s shares, is known for making substantial and unrestricted donations to nonprofit organizations around the world, totaling over $16.5 billion.

This model of donation began to strengthen in 2020, during the pandemic, for emergency relief funds aimed at supporting victims and extended to civil society organizations that work for communities, which historically face more difficulties in accessing financial resources.

The pandemic laid bare (not only for Mackenzie Scott) the need for philanthropic action worldwide, especially in the face of the numerous scenarios of calamity and social urgencies triggered by the spread of Covid-19. The scenario catalyzed the discussion of the need for simplified donation to gain even more strength, seeking to redesign the relationships and bonds between organizations and investors.

According to the Trust-Based Philanthropy: Self-Reflection Tool proposed by GIFE, the adoption of Trust-Based Philanthropy values starts with an internal analysis around four central points: the investor’s organizational culture, their decision-making processes, the structures through which they operate, and, finally, their practices. Therefore, we will discuss paths to begin this journey towards trust.

How Trust-Based Philanthropy Can Change the Game

To change the rules of the game and make philanthropy a more democratic and inviting action, Trust-Based Philanthropy redefines positions, bringing greater parity between the roles of the actors involved in the fight for social equity.

The most widespread practices of this grantmaking modality consist of promoting a ‘trust-based donation’ (not tied to specific projects), unrestricted (without budget allocation restrictions), and multi-year. At the grassroots level, practicing philanthropy based on trust requires an exercise of active listening to the needs of the beneficiaries. Values such as flexibility and transparency are essential to ensure that demands and limitations are understood from both sides of the relationship. Here, it also involves building closer and more humanized relationships between donor and beneficiary, simplifying workflows and starting from the premise of Trust-Based Philanthropy that there should be a shift in the relationship with the funder, moving from a position of ‘boss’ to being a partner. Thus, a good alternative involves creating feedback mechanisms, as 67% of donation-receiving organizations report that even if this practice occurs, it is not institutionalized.

Another possible action is not restricting the donated resource. It is common for the transfer of resources to be strictly directed towards costs directly related to the project, without considering the sustainability and structuring of the organization that executes it. In this sense, thinking about a free and unrestricted donation ensures autonomy for organizations to manage their resources based on what they identify as most critical, taking into account their survival, project expansion, and scalability. Here, it is also the responsibility of donors to proactively understand the organization’s priorities and possible additional support opportunities.

Also for this purpose, a good practice is the promotion of technical training, provided voluntarily and free of charge, for supported organizations, guiding them on tools that can assist in project management and continuity, such as Theory of Change and indicators. Also, according to the Peripheries and Philanthropy research by the PIPA Initiative, 95% of social organizations in peripheral territories indicated that they would like to receive training on financial and project management and believe that training impacts their ability to raise financial resources.

What are the challenges for this practice?

As pointed out by the Charities Aid Foundation in the World Giving Index 2023, strengthening a robust philanthropic ecosystem requires not only the adoption of good practices by governments and international funders but also ongoing work by civil society organizations regarding their governance and transparency to gain full public trust.

At this point, it is evident how the practice of trust-based philanthropy works in a two-way street, where both funders and organizations need to trust each other, as well as listen to the people and communities impacted. It is also essential for this practice that the donation-receiving organization is willing to share key information about its strategy and actions, thus ensuring horizontal and co-construction between the involved parties, both in receiving and transferring resources.

For many social investors, investing in organizations with their projects is still seen as a risk, whether due to lack of transparency or unfamiliarity with the trust-based methodology. In this sense, the growth of the practice is exponential: the more it is executed and publicized, the more widely diffused the methodology becomes, and the greater the tendency for adoption. Causes originating from social movements that already advocate for representation and equity are opening up frontiers in this modality, giving voice to marginalized groups and investing in funds with co-creation-based practices and trust-based practices, such as the Feminist Fos Fund (dedicated to gender issues) and The Black Fund (focused on racial issues).

Case Study: Chamex Institute and Transforming Territories

Although the grant call modality might not be the most suitable for these principles, organizations that want to start in this area, or those with lower institutional capacity to promote these systemic changes, can also join this movement through simpler actions in their existing resource allocation processes.

IDIS encourages its partners and clients to practice principles of trust-based philanthropy within their grantmaking practices. One of the funders that works with our consultancy team, the Chamex Institute, has been evolving each year in its approach to funded organizations. Since the first edition of the Citizenship Education Grant Call, the Institute values an open and direct relationship with its beneficiaries.

In addition to financial support, the five organizations awarded the grant call also undergo a Theory of Change workshop and indicator construction with IDIS’s expert team, ensuring that project monitoring is of quality, as well as strengthening its permanence and replicability. Last year, the 3rd Edition of the Citizenship Education Grant Call opened up space for up to 50% of the allocated resource to be used for personnel expenses (internal or outsourced) and up to 10% for administrative expenses (such as water, electricity, rent, and others), maintaining the guideline for this year’s edition.

As an additional action, finalist and awarded organizations are invited to join the Projects Portal, a showcase-style initiative designed to attract partners and publicize the social work developed.

Taking a step further, the Transforming Territories (TT) program, by IDIS in partnership with the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, aims to support Community Foundations and Institutes (CFIs). These organizations work on strengthening a specific territory as bridges between local social organizations and initiatives, donors, civil society, and the government. In the Community Philanthropy modality, CFIs analyze the territory in which they are inserted comprehensively, having complete autonomy to allocate resources according to the needs and priorities of the region. Thus, financial transfers and technical support are directed more effectively towards local strengthening.

The great strength of the TT lies in its foundational values, which serve as pillars for trust-based philanthropy. Advocating for community protagonism, democratic values, transparency, sustainable practices, and networked actions promotes active engagement of local communities as drivers of regional development. This stimulates participatory processes, freedom of expression, and respect for diversity through collaborative initiatives aimed at raising awareness and caring for natural resources. All of this is complemented by an emphasis on transparent communication, encouraging the sharing of information and data dissemination.

This management model, combined with unrestricted and multi-year donations, establishes a relationship of trust between the donor (companies and partners supporting the TT) and the directly impacted organizations (CFIs). It is based on the principle that the action of CFIs can have a greater impact on the territory than verticalized direct donations. Additionally, the funding plays a role in strengthening the institutional development of CFIs, promoting these organizations in the Brazilian territory not only through financial resources but also through training and technical assistance.

Donations can be made by companies and philanthropists, adopting organizations or territories within the program. If you are interested, visit the website or contact IDIS.

The Change We Hope For

IDIS has been delving into these new philanthropy trends. The latest edition of Perspectives for Philanthropy in Brazil highlighted that support for the institutional strengthening of civil society organizations, from the standpoint of governance and transparency, can generate catalyzing changes towards higher levels of trust, in a virtuous circle.

Explore more case studies and get in touch to build these paths together.

Scientific philanthropy: what has been done and the future of the practice

Publicado em 3 de junho de 2024 por lxavier

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“It is not possible to think about sustainable development without considering scientific development”. This was one of the statements made by Dr. Marcos Kisil, a physician and founder of IDIS, during the First International Seminar ‘Science meets Philanthropy.’ Throughout a full day at the University of São Paulo (USP), leaders from various fields discussed the landscape, examples, strategies, and future of the relationship between the development of science and philanthropy, both in Brazil and internationally.

The event was organized by Gema Filantropia (Group of Studies on Models to Support Science) – an initiative of IEA-USP (Institute of Advanced Studies of USP) – and the José Luiz Egydio Setúbal Foundation, with support from IDIS. The goal is to stimulate collaboration between the scientific and philanthropic communities in Brazil. Leaders from universities, research institutes, philanthropic entities, funding agencies, government authorities in Science and Technology, and researchers engaged in the cause gathered at the meeting.

Throughout the day, the current homogeneity of funding in the field of science was emphasized, mainly provided by the governmental sector. The opportunity for the philanthropic sector to collaborate in these investments was highlighted, given its independence and capacity for experimentation and risk-taking, important and beneficial characteristics for the scientific field. Philanthropy has played an increasingly significant role in supporting science and technology, something that is still in its infancy in Brazil but already well-established in countries like the United States, England, Canada, and the European Community. The term ‘science philanthropy’ was coined to describe this trend.

During the panel ‘Discussion about the needs and proposals for a legal environment favorable to philanthropy in science’, alongside Laís de Figueiredo Lopes, partner at SBSA Advogados, Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, emphasized philanthropic endowments as a strategic alternative for financial sustainability in science funding. These endowments, created to receive donations for specific causes or organizations, allow received resources to remain invested, with only the returns being used to fund the cause. She also presented an overview of the agenda for endowments in the legislature, which currently includes two Bills proposing incentives for donations to endowments.

The science has its own maturation time, requires experimentation, and demands long-term investment. Endowment funds enable the cause to have long-lasting resources, taking whatever time is necessary,” comments Paula.

The mechanism of endowment funds is already used by several scientific organizations around the world, such as the NIH Common Fund, Harvard University, The Endowment for Basic Science, and in Brazil, the USP Endowment, the FMUSP Medicine Endowment, among others.

Hélio Nogueira Cruz, a member of the Faculty of Economics and Administration of USP and former advisor to IDIS, indicated in the panel ‘Contributions and projects of the University of São Paulo in the field of scientific philanthropy’ that, despite the gains from the mechanism, there is still much to be done. “The experience with endowment funds is recent, and there is enormous room for their evolution,” he said.

Reinforcing international collaboration and seeking inspiration from other parts of the globe, the event also featured the remote presence of Joseph R. Betancourt, president of the Commonwealth Fund. The American organization directs its fund resources to support independent research on health-related issues, seeking to promote greater access and quality of care, especially for people in situations of social and economic vulnerability.

Dr. Marcos Kisil participated in the panel ‘Strategies and future actions to strengthen scientific philanthropy in Brazil’, highlighting the importance of philanthropy as direct support for scientific development. “I think scientific issues begin to have greater prominence in society when you disclose that development cannot occur through cyclical processes but must be through a permanent and sustainable process throughout history, which scientific philanthropy can directly support,” he comments.

At another moment, he indicated how philanthropy is indeed a powerful tool and platform but can also be misused by its holders. “You have philanthropists who deny science to such an extent that they are now financiers of the anti-vaccine movement in the United States. Showing that this power, this influence, these communication networks, can be contrary to science,” he says.

At the end of the event, there was the launch of his new book ‘Philanthropy at Risk: from scientific development to sustainable development’, which explores the need for deepening the relationship between philanthropy and science in Brazil, with practical examples of what is already being done, and furthering the discussions raised throughout the event.

“Although it is impossible to predict exactly what we will find with a new scientific tool, we must remember that science is not limited to expected results: the entire process generates knowledge, discoveries, and learning for researchers. Supporting science is never a waste of resources”.

(MYHRVOLD, 2000)

Mackenzie Scott Donates $1.5 Million to IDIS

Publicado em 3 de junho de 2024 por mnegrao

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IDIS – the Institute for the Development of Social Investment – has received a donation of $1.5 million, equivalent to R$7.5 million, from American philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

The gift received will be the first contribution to IDIS Endowment, which is being stablished on the year the Institute celebrates its 25th anniversary. The mechanism aims to contribute to the organization’s sustainability and shall provide greater predictability for investments in projects to strengthen strategic philanthropy and the culture of giving in Brazil, including advocacy initiatives for a favorable regulatory environment and knowledge contents.

“The endowment will provide perpetual source of funding, which will be used to expand our efforts to strengthen strategic philanthropy in the country, as it provides us with greater long-term stability. It’s a recognition of the relevance of IDIS and the potential we have to generate even more positive impact,” explains Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

Ranked as the fifth richest woman in the world, the philanthropist is a signatory of the Giving Pledge. This commitment encourages people and families with substantial wealth worldwide to contribute a significant portion of their wealth to social causes and publicly pledged to donate at least 50% of her wealth during her lifetime. In Brazil, Elie Horn, founder of Cyrella, and the Latin American couple, David Vélez, co-founder of the digital bank Nubank, and his wife, entrepreneur Mariel Reyes, are also signatories of the commitment.

Income and money donation in middle-income countries: Evidence from Brazil

Publicado em 29 de maio de 2024 por lxavier

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Income plays a crucial role in shaping pro-social behavior, particularly in the context of charitable giving. However, existing literature reveals mixed findings when dealing with the nuances in this relationship.

In an article published in the academic journal Journal of Philanthropy and Marketing, on the Wiley platform, Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, together with Marcos Paulo de Lucca Silveira and Flavio Pinheiro, evaluates the main hypotheses concerning the influence of income on charitable giving, drawing on data from Brazil Giving Research 2020 with 2099 respondents in Brazil. This study contributes with new evidence to the topic within the context of a middle-income Latin American country, an aspect often overlooked in previous studies. Our analysis focuses on how an individual’s household income influences three key aspects: the likelihood of giving, the amount given, and the proportion of household income donated.

The findings indicate that individuals from higher-income households donate larger sums of money but the same proportion of income as other income households. Household income does not significantly affect the likelihood of donating or the proportion of income donated.

Check out the full article here.

Together for Health: annual activity report 2023

Publicado em 20 de maio de 2024 por lxavier

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The document details the actions developed during the first year of the Program, ensuring transparency for society and partners.

Launched in 2023, Together for Health is an initiative of the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES), managed by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment.

In partnership with private donors, the Program seeks to raise resources to support and strengthen the Unified Health System (SUS) in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil, where approximately 75 million people live and – 9 out of 10 – depend exclusively on the SUS ( IBGE, 2020). The high demand results in important challenges, such as low availability of doctors, poor infrastructure, and poor access to population health data.

“In its activities, Together for Health prioritizes municipalities with less than one doctor per thousand inhabitants and, under the logic of matchfunding, has the prospect of allocating, by 2026, approximately R$ 200 million (R$ 100 million of supporters and R$100 million from BNDES) for health projects that aim to benefit care activities for populations living in these regions of the country, including primary care services; medium and high complexity; urgent and emergency services and diagnostic support” explains Carla Reis, Head of the Department of the Industrial Complex and Health Services of the Productive Development, Innovation and Foreign Trade Area of BNDES.

The annual activity report is a management and transparency tool and details the Program’s actions and results.

Main achievements

In its inaugural year, the focus of Together for Health included the institutional and operational structuring, the team building and a consolidation of a strong network, made up of strategic partners, which played a key role in all the achievements of the Program so far.

Five important supporters arrived to join Together for Health, donating a total of R$97,083,148.32 (50% from BNDES, 50% from private donors). The donors are: Vale Foundation, RD Group, Dynamo Institute, Umane and Wheaton.

The resources raised began to be allocated, allowing three large projects to begin: Social Protection Health Cycle, executed by CEDAPS, Mental Health Indicator Panel, and ImpulsoPrevine, both under the responsibility of ImpulsoGov. Together, they will benefit almost 300 municipalities.

“The management of this initiative contributes to the allocation of donations align with public policies,” explains Luiza Saraiva, IDIS’ project manager responsible for conducting the Program. In 2024, in addition to fundraising and allocation to projects, the monitoring process will begin to assess the impacts achieved.

To learn more about the partners and executors, the Program’s operational models, the committees and evaluation bodies, details of the actions developed, and the financial report, click here to download the report for free (available only in Portuguese)

IDIS 2023 Retrospective: bolder than ever

Publicado em 25 de abril de 2024 por lxavier

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Boldness is inherent to human nature, but it must be developed, experienced, and refined. This was not only the theme of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2023 but also the journey of IDIS throughout the year. We need courage, creativity, planning, and persistence to face challenges and take risks. In 2023, IDIS was bolder than ever!

Whether through internal initiatives or collaborations with other organizations in the sector, boldness propelled our work based on the tripod of knowledge generation, advisory, and impact projects. Along this path, we continued to contribute to our mission of inspiring, supporting, and expanding private social investment and its impact. The stories have been compiled in our Activity Report, available only in brazilian portuguese.

However, here’s some of our key achievements throughout the year.

OUR NUMBERS

Our advisory team led 54 projects, covering areas such as strategic planning, endowment structuring and long-term strategic for financial sustainability, donation management and impact assessment. We also officially incorporated into our offerings services related to the ESG agenda and the relationship with Private Social Investment.

In the knowledge area, we continued our vocation to reflect on trends, read scenarios, and systematize concepts and methodologies. We launched 50 new products, including publications, articles, technical notes, and events. We released the second edition of Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy, held another edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, which once again took place in a hybrid format, and conducted the Brazil Giving Research 2022. We supported the development, adaptation, and translation of studies by international partner organizations, such as the Operating Archetypes by Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors and the World Giving Index 2023 by CAF. In total, we received 170 thousand accesses to our content.

Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2023

The impact projects that IDIS implements and leads continued to advance. Within the scope of the Transforming Territories program, in partnership with the Charles Mott Foundation, one of our focuses was expanding the network by bringing new leaders and organizations to operate within this model. Through a public call, meetings, and active research, five new initiative groups joined the program, totaling 17 participating organizations. In September, we gathered everyone in São Paulo for the 2nd Transforming Territories Seminar.

2nd Transforming Territories Seminar

Throughout the year, the Coalition for Philanthropic Funds, led by IDIS, continued its work. One of our main advocacy issues this year concerned the regulation allowing resources from tax incentives to also be directed to endowment funds. Also on this topic, we launched another edition of the Endowment Performance Yearbook 2022.

It was this year that the grandiose Together for Health initiative began, a impact project aimed at allocating, by 2026, R$200 million to strengthen the Unified Health System (SUS) in the North and Northeast regions of the country. In just one year of operation, we secured four important supporters, and three projects covering almost 300 municipalities are underway.

GLOBAL PRESENCE AND PARTNERSHIPS

We believe that the diversity of opinions, backgrounds, life stories, and repertoires enriches our work and increases our potential for impact. Therefore, in 2023, we continued to celebrate diversity and invest in the power of partnerships.

We also participated in thematic networks, reflecting, co-creating, endorsing, and implementing actions. We contributed to the advancement of relevant agendas for strengthening the democratic environment, Private Social Investment, and the Culture of Donation in Brazil.

Discover our institutional partners and the networks we participated in during 2023.

WHO IS PART OF THIS STORY

Those who contribute to building our story daily are the ones who are part of IDIS. Since 2020, we have grown not only in terms of project numbers, impact indicators, events, and partners, but also in people. Between August 2022 and August 2023, we experienced a 50% increase in our team, leading to the creation of new processes and people policies.

With a hybrid working model, throughout the year, a series of integration, training, and knowledge exchange actions were promoted. Part of these initiatives was led by the Diversity Committee, composed of IDIS team members, which also coordinated the second edition of the IDIS Census.

IDIS team reunited

WHAT AWAITS US IN 2024

We enter 2024 full of plans and determination, ready to continue inspiring, supporting, and expanding the impact of private social investment.

Additionally, this year marks our 25th anniversary. It will be a time of many celebrations!

In partnership with the MOL Group, we are structuring the 1% Commitment, a movement that encourages companies to allocate at least 1% of their net profit to social organizations and causes of public interest. We are seeking more supporters for this initiative.

Within the scope of Together for Health, the end of fundraising is planned, reaching the milestone of R$100 million donated by supporters, which will be matched by BNDES. In 2024, we will begin the impact assessment of ongoing projects.

In the realm of knowledge projects, in addition to hosting another edition of our traditional Forum and the Endowment Fund Performance Yearbook, we highlight the intention to initiate a study focusing on family philanthropy and to raise funds for the realization of the Brazil Donation Survey 2024, now biennial.

Lastly, given the increasing relevance of the ESG Agenda, IDIS invests in strengthening the consulting team with experts, developing methodologies that support social investors in their decisions, and producing knowledge on the subject, including the publication of a new study.

Social Impact Valuation Drives the “S” in ESG

Publicado em 16 de abril de 2024 por mnegrao

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by Denise Carvalho, Senior Manager of Monitoring and Evaluation at IDIS.

In the corporate world’s waze of words, ESG has become a consensus for assessing and validating whether a company is socially conscious, sustainable, and has good governance. These are criteria supported by impact measurement methodologies that identify good companies to invest in. After all, ESG is directly linked to sustainability – here, related to the very viability of businesses’ existence and profit generation.

Transitioning to the realm of social investors, where profit is not the ultimate goal, ESG serves as a compass guiding organizations’ strategic actions and opens doors to measure the impact that developed projects have on the communities served. But how do you know if the positive impact justifies the investments involved?

Environmental impact measurement, for example, fosters various relationships: how many hectares have been spared from deforestation, how many greenhouse gases have been avoided, which water bodies have been cleaned, how much waste has been reduced. However, the calculation on the social side may be somewhat different.

One of the main obstacles faced by social investors, as highlighted by the ecosystem itself, is obtaining quality data related to the social pillar of the ESG Agenda. This perception was corroborated by the ESG Global Survey 2023, conducted by BNP Paribas, in which 71% of respondents pointed to result measurement as the biggest concern for investors. This agenda is seen as a guiding element for organizations towards more responsible practices, yet the challenge of standardization and consistency of data persists, particularly in the social sphere.

Currently, impact assessment methodologies are capable of rigorously measuring the results generated by the actions of social projects. These methodologies provide a thorough and well-founded analysis of how an organization’s activities influence people, communities, and the environment, seeking to understand the extent and effects of its actions, programs, and projects.

Impact assessment doesn’t just study “what” but also measures “how much,” “why,” and “how” changes occur. Since impact assessments are always data-driven and can provide information in a common language, communicating these analyses can bring great visibility to the organization itself, as well as enrich the debate on the ESG agenda in the corporate world.

Some companies and organizations already recognize the potential of impact assessments as allies of the ESG Agenda. For example, Petrobras has been conducting rigorous analyses in its various social and environmental projects as part of its commitment to the agenda. To achieve this, the company began a process of diagnosing and harmonizing indicators aligned with its socio-environmental strategy, allowing for a clearer identification of the impact in the communities where it operates. Intelligently used data enables strategic direction of actions and the expansion of the positive impact of projects.

Another aspect to keep an eye on when it comes to measuring social impacts is the adoption of tools such as Artificial Intelligence and blockchain as allies in this process, aiming to ensure even more transparency for social investors. The decentralized nature of blockchain, for example, prevents potential data manipulation, enhancing the credibility of impact reports. This allows investors to assess the socioeconomic results of funded projects more precisely, securely, and efficiently. Fintech Moeda Seeds and the Banqu platform are examples of organizations that have been working with the support of these tools to increase the credibility of the data presented.

It is through the materialization of impact that managers are armed with data that enable the strategic actions of organizations, relating the invested value to the social return of projects. It’s the antidote to the infamous “washing”.

Impact assessment is fundamental to establish a solid foundation for the sustainable success of organizations. It transcends mere measurement and becomes a strategic guide, directing companies towards paths more aligned with the ESG agenda. Although conducting impact assessments can be challenging, the benefits it offers far outweigh the possible obstacles.

The Brazilian philanthropic landscape in 2024

Publicado em 27 de março de 2024 por lxavier

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By Paula Fabiani, Luisa Lima, and Marina Negrão, from IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment

The 18th Global Risks Report from the World Economic Forum advocates that “Concurrent shocks, deeply interconnected risks and eroding resilience are giving rise to the risk of polycrises – where disparate crises interact such that the overall impact far exceeds the sum of each part”. The climate crisis is connected to the worsening of hunger and the increase in refugees. The war in Ukraine amplifies the debate on the use of fossil energy, and the health crisis triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic has led countries to rethink structures for income distribution, housing, access to basic sanitation, and international cooperation. The problems interact with each other, and they are interlaced. It is a multiple crisis, whose parts feed back into each other and progress at a speed and scale never before experienced.

This scenario was the starting point for the new edition of the ‘Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy’, an annual publication by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment that outlines the movements that are important for the present, which stand out, and for which philanthropists, social investors, and all those working in this field should be attentive for.

Not surprisingly, the first perspective out of eight, reveals how philanthropy begins to respond in an integrated manner, contributing to structural changes. The Brazil Climate, Forests, and Agriculture Coalition, for example, is a movement with over 350 representatives from the private sector, financial sector, academia, and civil society, aiming to articulate multiple causes and promote initiatives to promote the harmonious, inclusive, and sustainable use of land in the country and thus enable the transition to the new economy.

Six years away from the deadline of the 2030 Agenda proposed by the UN, public commitments are growing. Governments are signing treaties and letters of intent. Companies are disclosing goals, adopting new business models, and redirecting their philanthropic practices to generate positive transformations. Wealth holders declare that part of what they possess will be allocated to the promotion of social justice. In this scenario, a risk emerges: the ‘washings’, a term which has been adopted to denote false speeches not anchored in facts. In other words, commitments may be nothing more than empty promises that do not materialize over time.

The country’s moment, seeking to regain prominence on the environmental agenda, is also highlighted. Even organizations that work on specific issues such as education or culture find themselves encouraged to look at their relationship with the environment and climate change. There is also a growing trend of regional philanthropic initiatives, more attentive to the demands of the territories where they operate, with an approach more sensitive to local particularities.

The report draws attention to the fact that philanthropy also benefits the infrastructure of the Third Sector by investing in actions that promote the improvement of the regulatory environment, supporting the generation of data and actions for collective impact, such as the Coalition for Philanthropic Funds, which played an important role in the achievement of the first legislation on Endowment Funds in Brazil. Other aspects addressed include the adoption of impact assessment processes by companies and their contribution to the ESG Agenda, the importance of diversity in boards, and the use of Artificial Intelligence by social organizations.

The newly launched publication provides a clearer picture of the social investment horizon and is an invitation to reflection and action. A contribution from IDIS professionals to a resilient and sustainable future – in all its dimensions.

Together for Health Program closes its first year with the prospect of reaching almost 300 municipalities

Publicado em 13 de março de 2024 por mnegrao

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In 2023, Juntos pela Saúde (Together for Health) Program was launched, an initiative of the Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES) managed by IDIS. Aimed at strengthening the public health system in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil, the Program supports projects that operate in places with coverage gaps, prioritizing municipalities with less than 1 doctor per 1,000 inhabitants. The financial support offered to these projects is based on the logic of matchfunding, a fundraising model that multiplies the donations raised.

For every real (Brazilian currency) donated by partner organizations, BNDES adds another R$1,00, doubling the amount that will be transferred to health projects. The goal is to have approximately R$ 200 million (equivalent to USD 40 million) by 2026. The supported projects undergo a validation process envolving specialists and a Validation Committee, in which the funders confirm the investment. In order to receive support, projects must focus on priority municipalities in the North and Northeast regions and aim to benefit public health actions and services within the Brazilian Unified Health System.

To learn more about the selection of new projects, click here.

On its first year, five supporters joined Together for Health – Dinamo Institute, RaiaDrogasil Group, Umane, Vale Foundation, and Wheaton. Over 2024, other organizatons shall join, to meet the fundraising goal (learn how to join here). Three wide-ranging also started to be implemented, and together they aim to reach nearly 300 municipalities, improving management and service processes, access to technological tools, infrastructure and training for professionals. Learn more about them:

HEALTH CYCLE SOCIAL PROTECTION

This initiative by Cedaps and Vale Foundation aims to contribute to strengthening the Basic Care, expanding the capacity for diagnosis, planning, operationalization, monitoring and evaluation of services through shared work plans with public management, guided by the health needs of local populations.

It is currently present in 8 municipalities in the state of Pará and, through the partnership with the Together for Health, will be expanded to 24 municipalities in the stated of Maranhão. Wheaton Precious Metals, BNDES and IDIS are also involved in this partnership.

By 2026, it is estimated that the project will reach 396 Basic Health Units (UBS), 55 Social Assistance Reference Centers (CRAS) and an average of 5,000 professionals, focusing on social protection and promoting the individual and collective health of the population,

“The Together for Health Fund helps to enhance social investment in territories that require special attention to access to quality healthcare. Through the partnership, we were able to take the Social Protection Health Cycle to 32 municipalities where we already work with education projects in Pará and Maranhão. In partnership with municipal departments, we hope to collaborate in a structured way to improve public services and benefit the entire population.” expresses Pâmella De-Cnop, Executive Director of the Vale Foundation.

IMPULSO PREVINE

The project created by the non-profit organization ImpulsoGov is a digital solution that centralizes data, analysis and recommendations from the Federal Primary Care funding program on a platform, providing a dashboard to health managers.

The solution allows, for example, monitoring the performance of cervical cancer preventive examinations, available free of charge in the Unified Health System (SUS). With it, local managers of the municipalities served will be able to improve their strategies to prevent the disease, which records 17 thousand new cases annually, according to 2023 data from INCA.

It is also worth highlighting that the Impulso Previne platform works with other Primary Health Care indicators and offers free support to municipalities, in order to contribute to better management and monitoring of the health situation of local populations.

With the financial support of Dynamo Institute, Impulso Previne will invest in the expansion of solutions focused on developing a cytopathological exam indicator and providing access to 19 municipalities.

The resources coming from Umane will be directed to the development of a vaccine indicator, covering 240 municipalities.

MENTAL HEALTH INDICATORS PANEL

Created by ImpulsoGov in partnership with the Cactus Institute, a non-profit organization that aims to expand debate and care in disease prevention and mental health promotion, the project aims to expand access to data and simplified information for mental health managers. With financial support from RaiaDrogasil Group.

“There are no established standards to evaluate the quality of services offered by Psychosocial Care Networks and managers often do not have access to information such as the profile of people served in the municipal network, and which services they attend. Our objective with the Mental Health Indicators Platform is to facilitate access to reliable information for these professionals, assisting in decision-making and contributing to the improvement of mental health services”, says Daniela Krausz, Mental Health project manager at ImpulsoGov .

Why is it important for the third sector to communicate with Generation Z?

Publicado em 6 de março de 2024 por lxavier

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By Luisa Lima and Lavínia Xavier

The giving culture is characterized by people’s habit of sharing resources, time or talents with causes and organizations that benefit the community. Its strengthening is a gradual process, shaped over time by changes, new socio-environmental demands, and, above all, the active participation of society and its trust that such donations will indeed make a difference.

Youth plays an essential role in building this culture, with energy, creativity, and innovative perspectives on civic and philanthropic engagement. The ‘Future of Giving’ study conducted by sparks&honey indicates that young people seek more meaning in their donations and want to support organizations that generate sustainable long-term impact, indicating that purpose and the feeling of contributing positively are more valuable to the group than any other generation.

Access to instant information through the internet and social media brings young people closer to global events and challenges. Furthermore, education and awareness about these issues are increasingly present in everyday life. As new generations naturally develop a sharper awareness of socio-environmental issues affecting the world, they also tend to play a more active role in building and maintaining a long-term giving culture.

Brazil Giving Research 2022, promoted by IDIS and conducted by Ipsos, revealed that 84% of young people aged 18 to 27, known as ‘Generation Z,’ made some type of donation in 2022. This data shows a significant increase compared to the 2020 survey, in which 63% of respondents in the same age group claimed to have made donations. The most common forms of donation include the contribution of material goods (76%), followed by cash donations (43%) and donations of time/volunteer work (30%). Generation Z tends to donate proportionally more through volunteer work than the rest of the population and less in cash. This discrepancy can be attributed to the lower average income of this audience compared to older generations.

The research also reveals that young donors have a significant tendency to promote or contribute in some way to fundraising or mobilization campaigns. This data was confirmed by 7 out of 10 young donors in 2022, with 20% of them claiming to have done so on more than one occasion. The group also demonstrates greater optimism towards Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) compared to the general population. Among young people, 73% agree that NGOs play a fundamental role in addressing socio-environmental problems, and 83% agree with the statement that ‘NGOs depend on the collaboration of individuals and companies to obtain resources and function’.

Moreover, the Brazil Giving Research 2022 shows that 52% of Generation Z donors not only stated they plan to continue their donations but also believe they will donate more compared to the previous year. This openness indicates an opportunity for philanthropic organizations to engage with Generation Z.

Some initiatives have already understood the potential of youth engagement in socio-environmental causes. In the United States, DoSomething, self-described as an activism center inspiring young people to change the world, has motivated millions of them in all American states and in more than 189 countries to act on issues affecting their communities. According to the organization itself, these efforts resulted in achievements such as the registration of 415,000 new voters in the American elections.

Another example is the partnership between TikTok and the British initiative Blue Cross, dedicated to animal welfare. The organization received a $1 donation for each video shared with the hashtag #PetBFF. The campaign reached over 500 billion views only during its launch year in 2019. In Brazil, it is interesting to note that social media plays a relevant role in donation decisions, with 25% of young people admitting its influence in this process, compared to 17% of the general population. Among the most influential platforms for the public are Instagram (89%), Facebook (37%), and TikTok (13%).

The organization TETO, present in 18 countries, is dedicated to improving housing conditions and stands out for its robust volunteer program that attracts many young people and university students, including a specific pillar focused on school groups. The school and university environment plays a significant role in motivating young people to make donations and get involved in social causes, as also demonstrated by the Brazil Giving Research. 18% of Generation Z respondents claim to be influenced by campaigns held in their workplaces, schools, or colleges, compared to 14% of the general population.

These examples highlight how connecting with youth and identifying behavioral trends can generate results, create opportunities for active group involvement, strengthen the third sector and build a more robust giving culture.

It is true that, despite some promising examples, relatively few third-sector organizations and initiatives have actively engaged in direct communication and outreach to younger audiences. This can be attributed to various factors, including specific challenges in identifying the best communication strategies for Generation Z, as well as human resource limitations in organizations, which often operate with lean teams.

However, it is crucial to recognize the relevance of the opportunity that the third sector has to engage more people and raise more resources by directing its communication efforts towards Generation Z. It is necessary to closely observe the behavior, motivations, and trends of this group.

It is important for the Brazilian third sector to be attentive and open to adapting and connecting effectively with Generation Z, leveraging all its potential. The commitment of this generation to social causes, coupled with its technological proficiency, opens new doors for innovation and significant impact. Today’s youth represent the future of the third sector and should not have to wait for their potential to be recognized and demanded.

IDIS specialist is highlighted by Social Value International

Publicado em 26 de fevereiro de 2024 por lxavier

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Denise Carvalho, Senior Monitoring and Evaluation Manager at IDIS, has been featured as the “Spotlight of the Month”, by the international impact assessment network, Social Value International. The network is present in 60 countries with the participation of individuals and organizations, including IDIS.

“SDG 17 is crucial for the network, as partnerships drive collective impact. Collaboration is essential for our network, promoting diverse expertise and resources. Through our partnership, we aim to amplify social innovation, advance sustainable solutions, and collectively assess social impact for a better future,” commented Carvalho in an interview with Social Value.

IDIS has a long term partnership with Social Value, and is recognized in Brazil for applying the Social Return on Investment (SROI) protocol on impact evaluation projects. Our team of specialist has done projects for companies, fundations and social organizations. Here are few cases:

Petrobras

Volkswagen Foundation

CSO Amigos do Bem

Global Research Reveals Perception on the Use of Artificial Intelligence by NGOs

Publicado em 7 de fevereiro de 2024 por lxavier

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A study conducted by the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), represented in Brazil by IDIS, shows an optimistic society but still quite divided regarding the use of AI by social organizations.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has moved beyond the realm of science fiction, with applications increasingly present in our daily lives. In 2023, the world witnessed (and experienced) the explosion of ChatGPT, the generative AI platform from OpenAI, which reached 100 million users in just three months—the fastest growth in the history of internet applications. As technology advances, so does the reflection on technical and ethical implications, as well as the opportunities and risks associated with it.

The groundbreaking research ‘What the public think of charities using AI’ conducted by the British organization Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), represented in Brazil by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, reveals an optimistic society regarding the adoption of Artificial Intelligence, but with reservations. The study involved over six thousand individuals in 10 countries, including Brazil.

According to the research, 37% of respondents believe that the benefits of using AI outweigh the potential risks, contrasting with the 22% who state the opposite.

“The findings of this study are valuable for delving deeper into the debate on the use of AI in the third sector in Brazil, with the responsibility and ethics that the subject demands,” comments Luisa Lima, Communications and Knowledge Manager at IDIS.

The study further deepens the analysis by calculating net favorability, i.e., the difference between those who are in favor of AI use and those who believe the risks are greater. Globally, this value corresponds to 15%. In the country ranking, Brazil ranks second among those who believe the benefits of AI use outweigh the risks (30%), trailing only behind Kenya (44%). Among the surveyed countries, only in Australia does the majority of the population show skepticism towards AI adoption, believing that risks outweigh opportunities (-4%).

The opportunities highlighted by Brazilian respondents include the potential to assist more people (29%), the ability to respond quickly to emergencies (22%), and making more precise decisions through data analysis (16%). Daniel Assunção, founder and CEO of Atados, shared his insights on the study results, expressing optimism about the use of AI, particularly in emergency situations such as floods. He emphasized the potential benefits, including proactive risk mapping and informing the population before disasters, optimizing resource distribution during response, and evaluating response quality through data analysis.

Regarding risks for third-sector organizations, Brazilian respondents cited data security (30%), job reduction (26%), and the generation of biased information and decisions (14%) as the most prominent. To mitigate these potential issues, Rodrigo Pipponzi, President of the MOL Group Council, emphasized the importance of governance structures in analyzing how the tool should be used in organizations. He stated that organization boards can play a crucial role not only in facilitating tool adoption but also in supporting its regulation and mediating technology use within institutions.

Gradually, AI is being adopted by civil society organizations, as reported by Kiko Afonso, the executive director of Ação da Cidadania. “Today, we use AI for communication, running sponsored ads on platforms like Google or Facebook and generating images, for example. We also see significant potential for its use in fundraising, as it can help us better understand the profile of our donors and create strategies based on that knowledge”. The research reveals that the public is attentive and interested in how NGOs apply technology, with only 13% stating they would pay little or no attention to its use by the organizations they support. In developing countries, including Brazil, 73% said they would pay much attention to this point, higher than the 40% in higher-income countries.

The results indicate that the public recognizes the opportunities generated by Artificial Intelligence but expects caution and transparency to understand how and why organizations are using AI to fulfill their mission. They also acknowledge that there should be investment for AI to be adopted by all types of organizations, avoiding creating inequalities in the sector.

Complete data is available on the CAF website.

Leadership Perceptions of Brazilian NGOs on the Research Results:

Daniel Assunção, Founder and CEO of Atado

“I am optimistic about the use of technologies. AI can optimize our activities, and people will have more time to undertake and dedicate themselves to actions that contribute to reducing inequalities, such as volunteering”.

“The regulation of technology use is still low, and in the short term, it can intensify inequalities and biases. In the long run, the trend is that this will be overcome”.

“In the organization where I work, we connect people interested in volunteering to social organizations. We are looking at the incorporation of technologies in general, and AI in particular, to improve the experience of our users and organizations, streamline processes and content production, as well as accelerate innovation”.

“In Brazil, the technology culture among social organizations is still low. I see few organizations innovating through its use, but as they become more popular, I believe many will start adopting it in their processes”.

“AI has the potential to generate more opportunities for individual engagement and activism. On the other hand, there is a risk that recommendations still have many biases, so it is important to invest in actions that contribute to critical thinking”.

“The response to emergencies is still carried out in a less structured manner in Brazil. Donations happen, but there is a lack of processes, coordination, and articulation between actions to distribute resources, support those affected, and mitigate damages. The use of AI can contribute in numerous ways. Even before disasters, by mapping potential risks and informing the population about the imminent threat. It can also be beneficial during the response, optimizing the distribution of resources and communication among all involved, as well as afterward, evaluating the quality of the response through the cross-referencing of available data”.

Rodrigo Pipponzi, President of the MOL Group Council

“The third sector faces a scarcity of resources. I believe that in situations of limitation, artificial intelligence can play a complementary role. It can be used where you typically lack manpower, speed, or agility, but I still see little knowledge about its application”.

“I have an optimistic view and believe that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. However, I think there is a considerable risk associated with society not fully understanding the use of this tool. One of the main risks, in my opinion, is the disconnection from causes. There is a danger of dehumanizing something very human, transferring the responsibility of decisions that often involve emotional and intuitive aspects to AI”.

“None of the organizations I am currently involved in incorporates Artificial Intelligence as an established tool. Our use is more focused on experimentation, lacking a structured policy”.

“Organization boards should play a very important role, not only facilitating the adoption of tools but primarily regulating their use and mediating technology use within institutions”.

Rodrigo “Kiko” Afonso, Executive Director of Ação da Cidadania

“The concerns presented in the research are also my concerns as a leader of a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO). Among the factors, what currently concerns me the most is the potential for biases, as this can indeed lead to wrong decisions. Currently, the algorithm can contribute to processing large volumes of data, but it can never replace people in making important decisions, as this involves cultural and social aspects that are subjective”.

“In Ação da Cidadania, we currently use AI for communication, running sponsored ads on platforms like Google or Facebook, and generating images, for example. We also see great potential for its use in fundraising, as it can help us better understand the profile of our donors and create strategies based on that knowledge”.

“Currently, NGOs in Brazil use AI very little. I believe that its use can generate positive results, but organizations must have clarity about the fundamentals of the technology. Otherwise, the risk of making biased and even disastrous decisions is high”.

“In Brazil, we are still poorly prepared to face emergencies. In the short term, I believe AI can contribute to identifying potential tragedies and warning populations that may be affected”.

ABOUT CAF

The Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) is a group of three social organizations based in the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States, specializing in secure and effective international donations. Together, they work with companies and philanthropists to support them and ensure that money reaches the core causes of their private social investment strategies. In the UK, CAF also operates CAF Bank, offering dedicated banking services to support over 14,000 social organizations based in the UK. Through the CAF International network, it is present on all continents, with IDIS representing it in Latin America.

ABOUT IDIS

IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment is a civil society organization founded in 1999 and pioneer in technical support to social investors in Brazil. With the mission to inspire, support and promote strategic philanthropy and its impact, we serve individuals, families, companies, corporate and family run institutes and foundations, as well as with civil society organizations, in actions that transform realities and contribute for the reduction of social inequality in the country.

Brazil drops to 89th position and Indonesia retains top place in World Giving Index

Publicado em 16 de novembro de 2023 por agoncalves

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Around the world, 4.2 billion people helped someone they didn’t know, volunteered time or donated money to a good cause according to the Charities Aid Foundation’s World Giving Index 2023.

For the sixth year in a row, the world’s most generous country is Indonesia. The second most generous country in the world is Ukraine, which is also the Index’s biggest riser this year, increasing its score after ranking tenth last year. Only three of the top 10 countries are among the world’s largest economies (Indonesia, United States, and Canada), while one of the poorest and least developed countries in the world – Liberia – is ranked in fourth highest place.

The CAF World Giving Index is one of the biggest surveys on giving ever produced, with millions of people interviewed around the world since 2009. This year’s Index includes data from 142 countries where people were asked three questions: have they helped a stranger, given money or volunteered for a good cause over the past month. As CAF official partner at Brazil, IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment is promoting and analysing the national data.

After being among the 20 most generous nations in the ranking, Brazil fell to position 89. There was a drop in all indicators, the most pronounced being donations to NGOs, which went from 41% to 26%. Helping strangers was practiced by 64% of respondents in 2022, also less than the 76% found on the previous year. Volunteering fell from 25% in 2021 to 21%. The average score stood at 37%. Although Brazil had better positions in the ranking in previous years, this was the country’s second highest score since the index’s launch in 2009.

According to Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, “The previous edition still reflected the impacts of the pandemic, when generosity was on the rise and the forms of participation, whether through donations or volunteering, were more evident. The drop in the coverage of these issues in the media, added to the impoverishment of the population and the climate of uncertainty and distrust common in election periods, contributed to a decrease in the population’s participation in the practice of donation”.

Fabiani considers that in the period there were also important movements in other countries, especially regarding the increase in donations, which led them to gain better positions.

New data available this year shows the factors that influence generosity around the world:

People who have a strong religious belief have a higher overall giving index score, except for Europe where it makes no difference.
People who rated their life in positive terms were more likely to have made a gift to charity, with some of the happiest countries in the world ranking in the top 10 for donating money (Sweden, Denmark, Netherlands, and Iceland).
Immigrants are more likely to give than nationals, particularly in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. Those who say they were born in another country tend to have a higher index score than nationals on average in most regions.

Neil Heslop OBE, Chief Executive of the Charities Aid Foundation, said:

“The CAF World Giving Index gives us reasons for hopeful optimism at a time of great instability. Generosity is innate to human behaviour and binds us all together as a global community. The diversity of countries leading the index highlights this: they cover the spectrum of wealth and economic development, geography, language, religion and culture. Giving is about building a connection with those around us, whether they are across the street or on the other side of the world. That is why we are calling on governments to do more to encourage those who can, to give the money and time that fosters vibrant, resilient civil society organisations as they face into social and environmental challenges and the impact of conflict and population displacement.”

Top 10 countries in the CAF World Giving Index 2023

Indonesia
Ukraine
Kenya
Liberia
United States of America
Myanmar
Kuwait
Canada
Nigeria
New Zealand
Brazil

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Notes to Editors

For more information, please email media@cafonline.org
The CAF World Giving Index is based on data from Gallup’s World View World Poll, which is an ongoing research project carried out in more than 100 countries. For detailed information on the World Poll methodology: http://www.gallup.com/poll/105226/world-poll-methodology.aspx

IDIS launches the second edition of the Endowment Performance Yearbook, analyzing data from 59 organizations

Publicado em 14 de novembro de 2023 por lxavier

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The publication shows an increase in donations to endowments, as well as the growth of resources allocated to socio-environmental projects

In its second edition, the Endowment Performance Yearbook, a publication by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, and the Brazilian Endowment Coalition, had the participation of 59 endowments, constituting a sample almost 50% larger than the previous year, which had 40 respondents. The combined assets of the funds included in the survey are also substantially higher – BRL 13 billion in 2021 versus BRL 123 billion in 2022. The historical series covers data from 2019 to 2022, and the publication includes articles by experts that contribute to interpreting the findings.

The growth in the number of respondents provides an even more accurate picture of endowment in Brazil and reaffirms the Yearbook as a national reference for endowment managers.

“The first endowment legislation in Brazil dates from 2019. Since than, the topic is on the rise. As more endowments are created, the greater is the need for parameters and benchmarks. Our hope is that the Yearbook becomes an effective tool for decision-making and that the historical series contribute to an understanding of the evolution of endowment funds in Brazil”, comments Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

The sample analysis indicate that after a sharp decline in contributions to the funds in 2021, there´s been a recovery in donations received, nearly doubling the amount (R$ 174 million vs. R$ 330 million). However, donations continue to be highly concentrated in a few funds. In 2022, three funds recieved 64% of the total donation volume. In 2021, the top three attracted 53%.

Despite fluctuations in donations, the volume of redemptions made by the endowments increased over the period analyzed. It rose from R$ 158 million in 2019 to R$ 340 million in 2022, allocated to financing socio-environmental projects.

Education is the largest area of attraction for these endowments. From the perspective of the beneficiary organizations, over one-third (35%) are educational institutions. From the standpoint of the supported causes, 70% of funds with predefined causes claim to support Education in some way, with Science & Technology being the second most frequent cause. This is partly due to the large number of endowment funds associated with colleges and universities.

Brazilian endowments are still mostly executors, with 90% or more of their donations used for their own projects. More than half (51%) of the sample funds fall into this category.

The allocation of endowment funds’ investments remains heavily concentrated in fixed income assets, which have remained at around 70% (74% in 2020, 73% in 2021, and 75% in 2022). One possible interpretation is that the stable behavior of the managers is linked to the resource allocation rules contained in the investment policies.

The nominal return on endowment funds recovered in 2022 after a year of decline. This performance is common to all asset size categories. In the aggregated data, the average return in 2020 was 6.0%, followed by 3.4% in 2021 and 8.3% in 2022.

The first law that regulated endowment funds in Brazil dates back to 2019. Its sanction contributed to increasing the visibility of the mechanism and accelerated its adoption. Nevertheless, since compliance with the law is not mandatory, the number of funds that claim to follow the model established by Law 13,800/19 is still relatively low – 29% (17 out of the 59 participants) in the sample. The most frequent reason for non-compliance is that the funds were created before the law was enacted (33%). The other reasons mentioned by a larger number of managers are the high cost of maintaining two institutions (14%), lack of tax incentives for donations (12%), and complex governance (10%).

The sample analyzed showed that endowment funds tend to have well-structured governance. Almost all (90%) have a Board of Directors, with 72% of them having independent members. Seventy-one percent have Audit Committees, and 70% have Investment Committees.

Endowment fund managers still consider that the biggest challenge is fundraising, mentioned by nearly half of them (48%). Next are returns (17%) and consolidation of their own fund (14%).

Regarding the challenges faced by endowment managers, Supreme Court Justice Minister Luis Fux stated in the Yearbook’s preface: “Despite significant progress in consolidating endowment, financial difficulties cannot be disregarded in order to provide them with efficient management in the current scenario of successive economic crises. Their administrators, consequently, need reliable information to provide them with (i) the basis for making strategic decisions, (ii) risk control, (iii) attracting profitable investments, (iv) assessing the cost-benefit of new practices, (v) and establishing solid parameters for governance and transparency. In this context, the new edition of the Endowment Performance Yearbook is very timely.”

This is an initiative of IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment and Brazilian Endowment Coalition. The publication is supported by 1618 Investimentos, ASA – Santo Agostinho Association, José Luiz Egydio Setúbal Foundation, Maria Cecília Souto Vidigal Foundation, Pragma Gestão de Patrimônio, Santander Bank, Umane, and Wright Capital Wealth Management.

About IDIS and Brazilian Endowment Coalition

For over a decade, IDIS has been dedicated to promoting the advance of endowment funds in Brazil, leading the Brazilian Endowment Coalition. With over 100 members from different sectors, the initiative seeks to develop this model of financial sustainability for organizations and causes through advocacy.

Among the network’s achievements is the approval, in January 2019, of the regulation of the instrument through Law 13,800/19, known as the Endowment Funds Law. The coalition remains active in seeking improvements in the legislation on more specific issues. IDIS also provides advice for the implementation of endowments, participating in projects for Unicamp, Unesp, Ibram, MAR – Museu de Arte do Rio, ASA – Santo Agostinho Association, Hospital AC Camargo, among others.

Impact Assessment for Productive Inclusion: Methodologies, Challenges, and Limitations

Publicado em 10 de novembro de 2023 por lxavier

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The practice of monitoring and evaluation can be an efficient tool for learning and decision-making in productive inclusion projects. By using evaluative methods, such as Social Return on Investment (SROI), it is possible to understand the social impact of projects and programs and make more informed decisions.

In the article titled ‘Impact Assessment for Productive Inclusion: Methodologies, Challenges, and Limitations’, Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, and Denise Carvalho, Monitoring and Evaluation Manager at IDIS, explore the main benefits, challenges, and limitations faced in the social impact assessment of productive inclusion projects and programs, as well as future trends and approaches.

The content of this article was published in the Revista Brasileira de Avaliação – Special Edition on Productive Inclusion, a publication that brings together a unique set of articles, experience reports, interviews, and essays discussing the evaluation of public and private policies for productive inclusion from various perspectives.

Coordinated by the Brazilian Evaluation Network with the support of the Arymax Foundation, in partnership with the Tide Setubal Foundation, this is a scientific publication aimed at fostering the discussion of evidence-based policies on interventions designed to address socio-economic inequalities in Brazil by generating employment and income for economically excluded individuals.

Check out the full article:

Impact Assessment for Productive Inclusion: Methodologies, Challenges, and Limitations from IDIS

Transforming Territories Seminar brings together over 30 community leaders from Brazil

Publicado em 1 de novembro de 2023 por lxavier

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The Transforming Territories Seminar, held in September at São Paulo, aimed to foster peer learning among representatives of Community Foundations (CFs) that are participants of the Transforming Territories Program, an impact project conducted by IDIS in partnership with the C.S. Mott Foundation. With visits to supported projects, lectures, and training sessions, the seminar provided an opportunity to deepen the understanding of a fundamental theme: the transformative power of these organizations in Brazil. The meeting also included the participation of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum.

In its second edition, the event had the participation of over 60 individuals, including leaders of CFs, philanthropists, partners, and supporters committed to the cause.

“The three days were important for connections, benchmarking, and expanding perspectives, processes, and possibilities”, summarized one of the participants.

“The Seminar was very special, especially because it was highly interactive. I believe in this collective construction for Transforming Territories for the coming years”, commented another participant anonymously in the event evaluations.

Inspiration and Example: A Visit to Cacimba Institute

It is not possible to visit São Miguel Paulista, a periferic neighborhood on the east of the city of São Paulo, and don´t notice the impact of the projects supported by Cacimba Institute. The organization has been part of Transforming Territories program since 2020, and can be considered one of the pioneer CFs at São Paulo. Cacimba was established with the support of the program and built on the solid trust that community leader Hermes de Souza had in the region. Since then, Souza has been at the helm of the Institute. Emphasizing the importance of inspiring action, the visit marked the opening of the seminar.

Throughout the day, social projects supported by Cacimba in the region were showcased. Many of them received guidance from leader Hermes de Souza and are now supported by the Institute.

: The breakfast, lunch, and afternoon coffee were served by local projects: “Mulheres do Gau (Women from Gau)” and “Escola de Gastronomia (Gatronomy School)”. Their food is organic and locally produced by women from the region.

: Visit to the building of the New Union of Art Institute – NUA, which houses several youth-led social projects. Among them are: Nuar Radio and TV, Debaixo da Ponte School, and the New Union Children and Adolescents Center.

: Next, a visit was made to the “Flor de Cabruêra” project, a workshop composed of women from the community. They create various products (backpacks, pencil cases, bags, etc.) on-demand, always using recyclable materials.

: Finally, a visit was made to the “Unidiversity of the Periphery.” The space hosts various courses in arts, computer science, and even sewing. Through these projects, the aim is to facilitate the exchange of experiences and practical learning that encompasses social and environmental issues.

Learning and Training: a constant

In the afternoon, the group took part in the “Diversity and Human Rights” workshop, offered by Clara Serva, partner in the Business and Human Rights department of the law firm TozziniFreire, and Maria Paula Bonifácio Custódio, a lawyer in the same department.

Between the moments of sharing experiences and breaks, there were cultural dance performances by projects from the NUA Institute, led by local individuals.

On the second day of the Seminar, lectures and discussions highlighted the relevance and actions of CFs in their territories, and many experiences were shared. The meeting took place at the Comunitas headquarters, which provides institutional support to Transforming Territories.

Here are the highlights from the four panels that were part of the event.

Panel 1: GREAT IMPACT FROM SMALL DONATIONS: ENHANCING CHANGE WITH SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS

This panel featured speakers Elio Raymundo (President of the Network of Good Organizations), Thais Almeida (Executive Secretary of the Espraiada Institute), Alânia Cerqueira (Leader of the M’Boi Community Fund), and moderation by Pâmela Ribeiro (Coordinator of Special Projects at GIFE).

The panel brought new perspectives on how supporting small local initiatives can generate significant social and environmental transformations, highlighting the potential of funds dedicated to micro-projects and seed capital for community strengthening, especially in regions where resources are concentrated in large organizations.

Elio Raymundo, President of the Network of Good, which operates in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro, emphasized how projects that receive small financial support can achieve “unexpected results” in local development. However, he stressed that this is only possible through trust in organizations and leaders who are change makers in their territorie.

Panel 2: STRENGTHENING BONDS: BUILDING SUSTAINABLES RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE TERRITORY

This panel featured speakers Hermes de Sousa (Director of the Cacimba Institute), Ana Paolo Vieira (Council Member of FUNDAES), Flávia Mota (President of the JEQUI Community Fund), and was moderated by Lúcia Dellagnelo (Ambassador of the Transforming Territories Program).

Starting from the need to create bonds, Hermes brought the issue of trust to the discussion to strengthen partnerships and build with the community. According to him, “self-trust leads to trust in others,” and this establishes the regeneration of trust. The key to sustainable relationships, based on his experience, is “engaging and working with the community, not for the community.” To achieve this goal, it is necessary to speak the same language and adapt the language in each space, even in the construction of calls for proposals, which the Cacimba Institute has made more inclusive by allowing submissions through videos and audio in addition to written formats.

Panel 3: UNITING FORCES: COLLABORATING WITH THE PUBLIC SECTOR AND BUSINESSES FOR COMMUNITY TRANSFORMATION

This panel featured speakers Eliane Macari (President of FEAV), Jair Resende (Superintendent at the FEAC Foundation), Célia Petit (President of the Manauara Association), and was moderated by Patrícia Loyola (Director of Social Investment and Management at Comunitas).

The partnership between foundations dedicated to neighboring cities – FEAV and FEAC for Valinhos and Campinas, respectively – also demonstrated the strength of collaboration in their areas of operation. As Jair Resende of FEAC shared, with more than 60 years of history, FEAC continues its mission to stimulate the social sector and has been supporting the development of FEAV by donating a century-old property to establish FEAV’s endowment fund. Mutual support is an example to be followed and demonstrates the power of community transformation in this territory.

Panel 4: UNITING FORCES: COMMUNITY PHILANTHROPY FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE

This panel featured speakers Diane Pereira (President of the Baixada Maranhense Community Institute), Gisele Ribeiro (President of the Redes da Maré Association), Willian Narzetti (Executive Manager of ICOM), and was moderated by Mônica de Roure (Vice President and Director of Institutional Relations at BrazilFoundation).

Regarding potential, Diane emphasized the need to be within the territory so that community philanthropy can understand the possibilities, people, and the land of a region in different situations. She believes that “considering there is potential when the river is full because it’s good for watering the plants, and when it’s empty, it’s good for moving cattle to other regions. It is necessary to think that development is about seeing abundance, not scarcity.” The representative from the Baixada Institute also stated that a network of people is needed not only to understand abundance but also to materialize social change.

On the third and final day, participants had the opportunity to take part in the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2023. Learn more here.

Text produced by Alexandra Teles, Ana Beatriz Pedreira, and Leticia dos Santos, all from the IDIS team.

About Transforming Territories

The Transforming Territories Program is an initiative of IDIS – the Institute for the Development of Social Investment – in partnership with the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, with a mission to promote the creation and strengthening of Community Foundations and Institutes in Brazil, with the engagement of donors and civil society, knowledge sharing, and technical support. BrazilFoundation and GIFE are institutional partners.

Community Foundations and Institutes have become an important institutional arrangement for social development and addressing the various demands of territories, whether they are neighborhoods, cities, or regions, with a long-term vision and seeking systemic impact for the development of the region. They play a central role in connecting social organizations and initiatives with donors, civil society, and the government, promoting transparency and engagement. These organizations act as grantmakers, financing projects and social initiatives in multiple causes to address the demands and priorities of the region, and they strengthen the third sector in the region through capacity building and technical support, invest in knowledge production, and promote a culture of giving in the territory where they operate.

Currently, the Transforming Territories Program consists of 17 community foundations and institutes from various regions of Brazil, located in 10 states.

Evolving Mindsets: Highlights from the 2023 Global Philanthropy Forum

Publicado em 1 de novembro de 2023 por lxavier

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Following the tradition, San Francisco was the set for the Global Philanthropy Forum 2023, attracting approximately 250 participants from around the world. The event featured 86 speakers over two and a half days of intensive programming. The Brazilian delegation, led by IDIS, brought together 13 members from different organizations.

The event’s discussions addressed topics such as the power dynamics between donors and beneficiaries, the decolonization of philanthropy, unrestricted donations, as well as issues related to diversity, humanitarian aid, and the correlation between socio-economic vulnerabilities and the impacts of climate change.

The welcome session included Philip Yun, President, and CEO of the World Affairs/Global Philanthropy Forum, and Gloria Duffy, President, and CEO of the Commonwealth Club of California, who announced the merger of the organizations. IDIS was mentioned during the speech, highlighting its long-lasting and relevant partnership in international philanthropy, with the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum being one of the largest representatives of the event outside the United States.

In the panel titled Big dollars, big impact: what makes big bets effective?, funders and CEOs discussed what was essential for their organizations to achieve the scale and impact expected from substantial and unrestricted philanthropic resources. The conversation emphasized the need to structure organizations to receive and manage these resources, addressing a theme that emerged prominently during the event: governance.

The panel Embracing accountability to amplify community voices focused on the accountability of philanthropists. It was highlighted that if the executives of organizations are more concerned with what the board thinks than with what the beneficiaries think of their decisions, there is no accountability.

The issue of the limited diversity in the profiles of board members of donor organizations was also raised. This is seen as one of the obstacles to building trust relationships with resource-receiving organizations and beneficiary communities. “For centuries, we have valued our volunteer board members without questioning whether they are truly serving our organizations and purposes. We love our volunteers, but maybe we need to reevaluate this model”, noted one of the participants.

In the session Capacity over cash (aces in their places): Using corporate strengths to rethink emergency response, it was mentioned that 60% of in-kind donations (goods, services, and non-cash transactions) in the first two weeks after a shock are inadequate and do not meet the needs of affected communities. Additionally, 70% of donated disaster resources are lost in the delivery chain, with only 30% reaching the final beneficiaries. The session that addressed these numbers was enlightening, emphasizing the importance of organizations having competent and coordinated local partners.

The theme of unrestricted resources was explored in various sessions, along with the challenge of being accountable for the unrestricted resources received, aligned with trust-based philanthropy. The use of technology for data generation, project monitoring, and scalability was also a recurring theme, with a dedicated session to explore the role of philanthropy in supporting the development of responsible, secure, and ethical Generative Artificial Intelligence tools.

Another session discussed the importance of government involvement in the effectiveness and scalability of projects. During the discussion on government partnerships, challenges were highlighted, such as the difference in pace compared to philanthropic organizations and the reputational risk associated with such collaborations.

“Participating in the Global Philanthropy Forum 2023 was an enriching experience that allowed us to connect with people from incredibly diverse backgrounds. We firmly believe that the conversations and connections established at the event have the potential to generate transformative partnerships,” commented Andrea Hanai and Guilherme Sylos, both from IDIS.

Brazil at GPF

Led by Andrea Hanai, Project Manager at IDIS, and Guilherme Sylos, Director of Prospecting and Partnerships, the GPF delegation included Carla Duprat (ICE), Caroline Almeida and Giovanni Harvey (Baobá Fund for Racial Equity), Cristiane Sultani (Beja Institute), Fernanda Quintas and Livia Magro (Liga Solidária), Marco Camargo (Vetor Brasil), Maria Amália Souza (Casa Fund), Marisa Ohashi (Alana Institute), and Raphael Mayer (Simbi).

As event partners, IDIS annually organizes the delegation, strengthening the relationship among participants and with the global philanthropic community. Interested in participating? Contact us. The next GPF has not yet been scheduled but will be announced to our community as soon as it is.

IDIS is featured in articles from Alliance Magazine

Publicado em 30 de outubro de 2023 por lxavier

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Alliance Magazine, a media partner of IDIS and one of the world’s foremost philanthropic media outlets, showcased several recent initiatives and content from IDIS.

They spotlighted key moments from the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2023, a significant event for Brazilian social investors organized by IDIS in September. In an article titled ‘Territorial Community Alliances: From the Environment to Human Rights’, Kit Muirhead discussed one of the forum’s sessions: ‘Unlikely Alliances: Bold Advocacy for Causes and Territories’.

The magazine also featured two articles authored by IDIS team members, each focusing on different discussions from the event. ‘Family philanthropy: addressing invisible causes’ by Isadora Pagy and ‘More than ever, boldness is needed to fight poverty!’ by Joana Noffs, both Project Analysts at IDIS.

The Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, an annual event hosted by IDIS, brings together leaders from philanthropy, the private sector, and the government to address Brazil’s most pressing social challenges and explore innovative solutions. You can access the full event recording here:

In another article addressing the growth of individual donations in Brazil, IDIS and the recent Brazil Giving Research were referenced. The article, titled ‘New Report Details 2022 Giving Trends in Brazil,’ highlighted key findings, including the increase in the percentage of Brazilians donating (aged over 18 with family income above one minimum wage) from 66% in 2020 to 84% in 2022.

Review the main Brazil Giving Research 2022 results:

Finally, Alliance also showcased the cover story of the WINGS Forum 2023, titled ‘The Transformation Driven by the Ubuntu Spirit’, authored by Luisa Lima, Communication and Knowledge Manager at IDIS, who was part of the Brazilian delegation at the event.

WINGS Forum 2023: The Transformation Driven by the Ubuntu Spirit

Publicado em 10 de outubro de 2023 por lxavier

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The triennial meeting of WINGS – Worldwide Initiatives for Grantmaker Support took place in Nairobi, Kenya, in October. Guided by the theme TRANSFORMATION, participants from 45 countries reflected on how to unlock the potential of philanthropy. Representing IDIS, Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS and member of the board of WINGS, and myself, Luisa Lima, responsible for the communication and knowledge area, and for the first time participating in the meeting. In all, the Brazilian delegation had 15 representatives.

The opening plenary set the tone for the event: ‘Existential Challenges and Shared Futures: Rediscovering the Role of Philanthropy’. The Brazilian indigenous activist Txai Suruí, shared the wisdom of her people – we are all nature and just protecting is not enough, we must give back everything we receive. He said that the future is ancestral – in our cultures there are many of the answers we seek that may have been lost or not valued – and the statement was quoted by many people throughout the event. The Englishman of Indian descent, Indy Joha, used numbers and data to show how we are not realizing the scale of our problems, or we don’t want to realize them, after all, each one of us is also responsible for them. Estonian philanthropist Jaan Tallinn highlighted the role of business in philanthropy and his personal journey – he is the founder of Skype, Kazaa and the Centre for Existential Risk Studies at the University of Cambridge. In his speech, a positive look at the use of artificial intelligence, which in his opinion can bring great benefits to society if there is investment. Rena Kawasaki, a young Japanese woman, said that at the age of sixteen she was invited to join the board of a biotechnology company. The experience changed his life and involving young people in decision-making about solving the challenges that will impact their future became his cause. The message was that it is possible and necessary to transform our development model and that the strength is when we do it together.

Over the course of three days, some topics stood out in the conversations and at times, the term of African origin, Ubuntu, which means ‘I am what I am, because we are all of us’, was mentioned. We are all connected, and in our philanthropic practices this understanding, this assumption, can guide everything we do. Also connected are the challenges we must face – poverty, inequalities in general, and gender and race inequalities with their specificities, education, health, climate emergencies, and many others, which together configure the polycrisis, another very present theme. Among other highlights, the importance of leadership development and youth involvement, community foundations as a model that privileges local solutions, the importance of decolonizing philanthropy, investing in the sector’s infrastructure and institutional development, and the potential of alternative financing models such as blended finance or venture philanthropy to leverage philanthropic capital.

In the plenary sessions, there was a debate on the role of councils, a topic on which there is relatively little reflection, even though governance is so often mentioned by organizations. The Brazilian Rodrigo Pipponzi, founder of the MOL Group, and chairman of the board of the ACP Institute, shared his vision and the importance of clarity about the role of each of the instances. In a debate with philanthropists, the Indian Vidya Shah highlighted the importance of business commitment to sustainable practices (looking inward) and the importance of investing not only in causes, but in the institutional development of organizations. The Austrian Marlene Engelhorn told of her campaign for the taxation of large fortunes, herself representing a very wealthy family. In his opinion, this is an important starting point for reducing inequalities.

Among the speakers and participants, there were many representatives from the African continent, who contributed to a better understanding of the specificities of the region. Quite dependent on international philanthropic capital, there have been debates about how they expect this support to happen, with greater independence for the creation of local solutions, and not purely the implementation of Western projects, which may be faster, but which sometimes do not involve communities, generate externalities and sometimes repeat a colonialist logic. The importance of broadening the debate and practice of trust-based philanthropy has appeared in many moments. As a Brazilian, it was particularly special, because I could see how some practices and customs are also foundational to who we are, brought hundreds of years ago by men and women who were enslaved. I was struck by how models cited by Africans resemble the models of the Black Brotherhoods, in colonial Brazil, for example.

The multicultural, diverse environment, with people from such different backgrounds, contributed to the richness of the conversations. The spaces in the program for networking and working groups allowed the exchange of experiences on specific topics. In a session on the production and use of data, for example, we shared experiences. A participant from a human rights organization drew attention to how their data that is collected to protect populations, if not stored carefully, can be demanded in times of crisis, and be used against the populations it was intended to protect. Representatives of African countries, in turn, drew attention to the difficulty of disseminating the findings, since many governments consider only the data produced by public bodies to be official. The best use and analysis of existing data was also mentioned, as well as the importance of training organizations to understand how to read data and use it to their advantage.

Transformation is the result of the action of each one of us and the feeling is that everyone came out energized and imbued with this duty. In line with the theme of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2023, BOLDNESS was one of the watchwords. We must be more ambitious and take risks. It is urgent to act and for that, we will catalyze the power of this and so many other networks, which bring power in their constitution. Let’s create the future we want!

‘Change requires courage’: More than ever, boldness is needed to fight poverty!

Publicado em 9 de outubro de 2023 por lxavier

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By Joana Noffs | Project Analyst at IDIS

In 2021, Brazil surpassed the mark of 63 million people living in poverty, while 33 million people faced hunger, according to data from IBGE and a survey conducted by the Vox Populi Institute. At the same time, a portion corresponding to 50% of the Brazilian population held only 0.4% of the country’s wealth in financial and non-financial assets, according to data from the World Inequality Lab, also from 2021.

Inequality was exacerbated by the global pandemic as well. As evidenced in a report by Oxfam, between 2020 and 2022, the wealthiest 1% of the world concentrated nearly two-thirds of all wealth generated during that period, totaling approximately $42 trillion. Extreme economic inequality is also related to environmental, racial, and gender issues, highlighting the urgency of bold and creative actions to address the social and institutional vulnerabilities that afflict not only Brazil but also unfold into a concerning global reality.

The panel that concluded the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2023, titled “More than ever, boldness is needed to fight poverty!”, precisely addressed and discussed this challenging scenario. The lecture was moderated by IDIS CEO Paula Fabiani and featured guests Gilson Rodrigues, president of the G10 Favelas, Jean Jereissati, CEO of Ambev, and Nivedita Narain, CEO of the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) India. The speakers presented possible paths and experiences that, driven by audacity, have proven to be significant in shaping a less unequal future.

Gilson Rodrigues began his participation in the panel by emphasizing the theme of audacity that guided the 2023 Forum. He highlighted that despite the recent increase in income inequality and deepening social disparities in the country, Brazilian favelas and peripheral areas should not be defined through a lens of scarcity, as this only exacerbates their marginalization.

To combat the stigma and foster a positive view of Brazilian favelas, Gilson is one of the voices that bring inspiring stories from contexts of adversity, demonstrating that favelas are also places of great knowledge. The G10 das favelas has underscored the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship to achieve necessary changes. He argues that for social investment to be effective in combating poverty, it must ensure the generation of opportunities while addressing issues such as hunger and lack of access to basic services.

“We genuinely believe that we need to create solutions based on this reality so that the favela can thrive and not solely depend on these [donations]. (…) We have been striving to create solutions that positively impact society and enable people to have work and income for their development, but also the choice of what they want to eat,” pointed out Gilson.

To achieve this, according to his leadership, social investment in favelas should always start with an approach that strengthens the autonomy of residents and their territories, thereby ensuring the financial sustainability of projects with the potential to transform structural inequalities.

Drawing from his experience in the private sector, Jean Jereissati, CEO of Ambev, highlighted in his speech the successful initiatives that the company has also been developing with the aim of contributing to these same challenges. Faced with the increasingly severe challenges posed by climate change, which also accelerate key factors in maintaining inequality, such as food scarcity, population displacement, and pollution, Ambev aims to make its production chain ‘carbon-neutral’ in the coming years and emphasizes the importance of consistency in mitigating negative environmental impacts. As Jereissati reminds us about the prospects for private social investment in the country, taking risks and daring is necessary for us to achieve urgently needed results.

“If you want to maintain the status quo, you can take fewer risks, but if you want to bring about change, you need to dare. In Brazil, we need to dare to achieve sustainable philanthropy,” emphasized the CEO of the company.

Beyond its commitment to sustainability, which, in the speaker’s view, should now be seen as an obligation, the beverage industry giant has sought to utilize a key characteristic of its activities to generate social transformation: its reach. Being present from ‘corn harvesting to the bartender at the bar,’ this characteristic allows Ambev to operate consistently in various fronts. With Bora, for example, the company has aimed to train entrepreneurs and connect them through its network, fostering productive inclusion. On the other hand, VOA is a volunteer program by the company that seeks to disseminate the knowledge and management expertise its employees possess for third-sector initiatives, promoting a more mature ecosystem of social impact. Finally, among the initiatives mentioned during the event, we also highlight AMA water, a social product of Ambev whose profits are reinvested to ensure access to clean drinking water for Brazilians in water-scarce regions.

Lastly, Nivedita Narain, CEO of CAF India, reminded us of the courage required to take strategic and planned actions in the pursuit of a more equitable society.

“When you talk about audacity, I think of courage,” shared Nivedita Narain.

She has been at the forefront of initiatives in her country that have placed organized civil society as a key player in addressing poverty and gender violence. Reflecting recent trends in philanthropy around the world, Narain explains that in the 21st century, there has been a shift in the course of private donations, which have become more directed towards governments, resulting in a decrease in the involvement of civil society organizations in this process. Echoing what Gilson mentioned, she emphasizes the importance of community organizations being heard and playing active roles in building coordinated policies between government, the third sector, and private investment.

During her presentation, the Indian leader provided a solid example of how such coordinated action can have its initial spark from local movements and scale up to successful public policy, based on an initiative in India that began by providing banking credit to economically vulnerable women in the 1990s, which led to the increased political representation of female leaders and a decrease in domestic violence. Importantly, Nivedita pointed out that when discussing the role of philanthropy in combating poverty in a broader framework, especially when addressing the Global South, we cannot forget to look at the issue through the lens of gender.

“We need a lot of courage for women; change requires courage, it doesn’t happen easily. The way change happens is when, in the community, women seek out and conquer that space, as it’s not given to us.”

Thus, Narain leaves us with the lesson of the need to consider factors like community participation and gender when reflecting on local development and in order to achieve the goals of the 2030 agenda.

Closing the panel, Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, thanked the attendees and supporters of the event, reminding us of the importance of coordinated actions among government, the third sector, and businesses to combat inequalities. Celebrating the audacity of the initiatives presented during the discussion,

“First, we need to convince others that it’s possible,” Fabiani stated.

She emphasized that dreaming is a necessary act for us to be capable of achieving social change.

— The IDIS team thanks everyone for their participation!

Want to learn more? Watch the full session:

The role of family philanthropy in addressing invisible causes

Publicado em 9 de outubro de 2023 por lxavier

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By Isadora Pagy, Project Analyst at IDIS

When we talk about philanthropy, it is common to think of donations made for causes like education, healthcare, and hunger relief. The first image that often comes to mind is that of vulnerable children in need of help. It’s no wonder that children’s causes received the most donations in 2022, representing 46% of donations made in the past year, according to Brazil Giving Research 2022 coordinated by IDIS.

Despite the great importance and urgency of such issues, others end up receiving less attention, becoming overlooked causes. This underscores the need for us to be bold in bringing visibility to and prioritizing these topics, regions, and organizations. This is especially true when it comes to family philanthropy, which has become increasingly strategic, going beyond isolated or charitable actions, and holding great potential for transformation.

Such boldness was the overarching theme of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2023, which took place on September 14th. During the event, a session was held to discuss precisely Family Philanthropy and addressing invisible causes, featuring the presence of Ilana Minev, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Bemol, Luciana Temer, CEO of Instituto Liberta and a board member of the Movimento Bem Maior, Philippine Vernes, Senior Manager of International Partnerships at CAF, and as the moderator, Luciano Cerqueira, Project Coordinator at Samambaia Filantropias.

During the conversation, Luciana Temer, who works to raise awareness about combating child sexual abuse as the director at Instituto Liberta, commented on how many investors and companies lack interest in investing in this cause because they consider it “an ugly issue.” In other words, they do not want to associate their brand with the cause. This raises a discussion about social washing and the tendency to invest only in issues that are “trendy” in order to enhance brand value in the eyes of consumers and potential investors.

Temer compares the issue to the fight against violence against women, which was also not discussed because it was considered a matter to be dealt with privately, as the saying goes, “you shouldn’t meddle in a husband and wife’s quarrel.” She emphasizes that this mindset should be challenged and that child sexual abuse, like violence against women, “occurs within families, is silenced, and exists in all social classes.”

Despite their importance, these overlooked causes are often considered residual and non-structural, which is once again used as a justification for not taking these issues seriously and strategically. This creates a greater difficulty in engaging partners, requiring boldness to address such socio-environmental issues.

In addition to Luciana Temer’s cause, there are other equally overlooked ones. Ilana Minev works on socio-environmental issues in the Amazon region and discusses the challenges and unique aspects of working in this region. She mentions that “when you work alone, you have limitations in terms of resources, time, and engagement,” emphasizing the importance of collaborative work, one of the pillars of her approach, by cooperating with other organizations also operating in the region.

Minev emphasizes another specific characteristic of the territory, stating that “most people have a helicopter view of the Amazon. They look through the treetops and see everything as green and rivers. But it’s necessary to descend and delve into the roots and look at the 25 million people who live there and seek prosperity”. She speaks of the potential that the region holds and the importance of working in-depth, once again combatting social washing.

When it comes to territory, Luciano Cerqueira highlights another obstacle that the country faced in the past, which was the perception of funders and international organizations towards Brazil as a whole, not just the Amazon. He comments on how Brazil was seen as a rich yet unequal country, with the means to finance social causes, which led to the departure of major international funders in 2004. Luciano discusses how this perception has changed and how international organizations have started to see new partnership possibilities with Brazil, bringing a positive outlook for Brazilian organizations.

Despite the challenges raised, there are opportunities for family philanthropy to become increasingly strategic. Philippine Vernes, representing CAF, a century-old British philanthropy organization, discusses the intergenerational aspect and the transfer of wealth to future generations, which opens doors to new themes, ways of giving, and strengthening the third sector.

Therefore, there is a need to focus on institutional strengthening of organizations, looking at governance and resource mobilization. This way, private social investment can be powerful, long-lasting, collaborative, and contribute to various social causes and territories across the country, bringing visibility to all.

Check out the full session.

“Onè”, Philanthropists, “Respè”, boldly, was the call of the opening session of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2023

Publicado em 9 de outubro de 2023 por lxavier

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On Thursday, September 14th, IDIS hosted another edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum. Highlighting the theme of ‘boldness’, the event took place in São Paulo and saw the participation of representatives from various sectors in Brazil and around the world, focused on discussing how we can advance Brazilian Private Social Investment. In addition to the in-person event, the program was livestreamed, reaching approximately 1,900 people across the country throughout the day.

The first panel heated up the discussions by addressing the overall theme of the event, ‘Boldness: a cross-cutting element for transformative, diverse, and inclusive impact’, and featured prominent members: Eduardo Saron, President of the Itaú Foundation, Geyze Diniz, Co-Founder of the Pact Against Hunger, Guerda Nicolas, Co-Founder of the Ayiti Community Trust, and Rodrigo Pipponzi, President of the Board of the MOL Group, who also served as the panel moderator.

It is evident that the social sector, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, is vibrant and more active than ever. However, even though there are already numerous successful social interventions, do the magnitude and seriousness of current problems demand more boldness in our actions?

Seeking to initiate discussions around these questions, the opening panel of the Forum presented provocations from those who are not in their comfort zone and have dared in philanthropy.

What is boldness, after all? In his opening remarks, the moderator, Rodrigo Pipponzi, highlighted that:

“Perhaps boldness lies in a place where we do more and think a little less, responsibly, of course, but prioritize practice and experience to seek the innovation we need in the field”.

And that’s what the speakers brought with their examples.

On the other hand, Geyze Diniz presented the Pact Against Hunger, launched last year and co-created by her and 40 other individuals.

“It was due to the discontent of being a rich country, producing food, exporting food, having the resources, but at the same time, we have 33 million Brazilians who go hungry every day, and on top of that, we waste eight times what would be enough to feed this population”.

Undoubtedly, it is a bold initiative by Geyze and her colleagues, who have the goal of eliminating hunger in the country by 2030 and ensuring good nutrition for everyone by 2040. The Pact Against Hunger sought to differentiate itself from other organizations by promoting synergies among initiatives from the third sector, the private sector, and the public sector. Today, in partnership with UNESCO and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Pact Against Hunger awards initiatives to bring visibility to ongoing projects.

Eduardo Saron from the Itaú Foundation emphasized the need to look at our reality and our data.

“For example, every day, a ‘Canada’ worth of students goes to Brazilian public schools. There are 35 million children from preschool to high school attending public schools. ‘A Mato Grosso’ (Brazilian state with approximately 3 million inhabitants) worth of teachers receives these students. These numbers are fantastic and very powerful”.

However, Brazil has low levels of educational quality and is progressing slowly to reverse this situation. It is urgent, then, that we adopt differentiated and transformative measures. That’s why boldness is crucial.

Coming directly from Haiti, Guerda Nicolas captivated the audience by explaining that when people meet in Haiti, it is customary for one person to say “Onè,” and the other responds with “Respè”; this is a greeting that signifies honor and respect. It is precisely with honor and respect that the Ayiti Community Trust (ACT) has been a force for transformation and is a pioneer in leveraging and empowering local people. ACT promotes a model of sustainable funding, enabling long-term planning and thus setting itself apart from traditional organizations in the country. Most importantly, ACT seeks to promote the potential of Haitian communities, giving voice to the locals and fostering a culture of ownership and pride, allowing them to chart their own paths and take control of their narratives:

“ACT believes that we can create our own ideas, and isn’t that bold? (…) We are building trust within communities. It’s a trust that black nations can lead, and that individuals can trust a black individual with millions of dollars and believe that we can truly deliver something”.

In common, the three panelists emphasized the importance of listening to everyone, considering and respecting various forms of knowledge, and looking at the potential of local communities. It is crucial to promote a participatory management model, prioritizing synergy among various individuals and sectors. Being bold means addressing critical issues related to education and hunger, for example, as everyone’s problem, never losing hope that they can be solved, and above all, daring to trust local strengths by bringing them to the center of their own decisions.

Want to learn more? Watch the full session:

With solidarity on the rise, individual donations to Brazilian NGOs total BRL 12.8 billion ($2.6 billion) in 2022

Publicado em 26 de setembro de 2023 por lxavier

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Promoted by IDIS –Institute for the Development of Social Investment, the Brazil Giving Research is the broadest study on individual donation in the country. In its third edition, it features a special chapter on the Generation Z

Donating is becoming increasingly popular in Brazil. In 2022, 84% of Brazilians over the age of 18 and with a family income above one minimum wage (approximately $270), made at least one type of donation, be it money, goods, or time, in the form of volunteering. Two years earlier, the average was 66%. Donating directly to NGOs and socio-environmental projects was practiced by 36% of respondents, remaining stable despite the socio-economic crisis faced by the country. These findings are part of the third edition of the Brazil Giving Research, an initiative of IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment and carried out by the Ipsos research institute.

The Research also explores the volume of resources. The median of donations reached BRL 300. It was BRL 240 in 2015 and BRL 200 in 2020. The growth was driven by higher donations over the last year. For comparison, in 2021, according to the Brazilian Benchmarking of Corporate Social Investment (BISC), the amount allocated to organizations and causes of public interest by the 324 participating companies and 17 institutes was BRL 4.1 billion ($833 billion).“Brazil is a country with many inequalities and the practice of donation is a fundamental aspect of our society. In the Brazil Giving Research, we set out to understand who the donors are, what are their motivations, what is their perception of NGOs, and what are the barriers presented by non-donors. This year, we also looked at Generation Z, the donors of the future. This is important data that helps us to strengthen the giving culture,” says Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

Download and get to know the main results:

WHAT IS THE DESTINATION OF MONETARY DONATIONS?

Among the respondents, 48% said they would make some kind of monetary donation in 2022. The figure is 7 points higher than that found in 2020 and equivalent to the 2015 level (52%). Part of these funds went to NGOs, socio-environmental projects, or social campaigns, with 36% of the population making what we call institutional donations. Interestingly, however, there was a significant increase in the percentage of people who reported donating alms, rising from 6% in 2020 to 16% in 2022. This growth is in line with the increase (from 1% in 2020 to 10%) in institutional donations to organizations and projects that serve homeless people, showing the heightened sensitivity to the cause.

The Research’s figures are also a social portrait of Brazil, whose homeless population exceeded 281,000 in 2022. This means an increase of 38% over the previous three years and most of this is due to the impoverishment of the population, a consequence of the economic crisis that is plaguing the country.

PERCEPTION ABOUT NGOs

In 2020, with NGOs playing a leading role during the pandemic, there was a significant improvement in public opinion about civil society organizations. Two years later, the data shows a considerable downturn, but even more positive than the picture in 2015.

The biggest setbacks appear in questions relating to trust in third-sector organizations. For the statement “NGOs make it clear what they do with the resources they invest”, there was a 14-percentage point drop in agreement (from 45% to 31%); and for “Most NGOs are trustworthy”, there was a 10 percent point drop (from 41% to 31%).

“The findings begin to make it clearer which effects of the pandemic are short-lived, and which are here to stay. The image of the work carried out by the Third Sector is still quite volatile and prone to following the social context. It’s important that the sectors collaborate to strengthen the perception and engagement of society in general,” says Luisa Lima, Communications and Knowledge Manager at IDIS.

On the other hand, Generation Z, youth aged between 18 and 27 years old, are much more optimistic and positive about NGOs in all respects. The difference with the general population is especially large when it comes to the statement that ‘NGOs bring benefits to those who really need them’ (74% among Generation Z against 58% of the general population). In statements such as ‘NGOs make it clear what they do with the resources’ and ‘Most NGOs are trustworthy’, Generation Z’s agreement is around 39%, which, even though it is higher than in the general population, is still a point of attention.

SOCIAL CIRCLE OR DIGITAL MEDIA: WHICH ONE INFLUENCES THE DONATION THE MOST?

This edition includes a question about the main drivers of donation practices. We asked the institutional donors to choose the three most important to them from a list of possibilities. The responses showed that social interaction in religious settings and communities has the greatest power to influence a donor, followed by family, neighbors, and friends. Meanwhile, social media and digital influencers came fourth with 17%. Among Generation Z, the value of the reach of digital media and influencers grows to 25% of donors.

When asked which social media influences them to donate, both among institutional donors from the general population and from Generation Z, the most common mention was Instagram (85% and 89% respectively), followed by Facebook (33% and 37% respectively),. After the top two, we have the most significant changes: while the general population considers YouTube and WhatsApp (both with 13%) to be among their other biggest influences, Generation Z, third and fourth place goes to TikTok and YouTube. In this group, WhatsApp appears with only 4% of responses, behind Twitter. In both cases, LinkedIn was the least mentioned network.

CITIZENSHIP ACTION BY BRANDS AND COMPANIES

We sought to understand how the perception of the reputation of brands and companies influences consumer decisions. The result shows that people punish companies and brands that behave inappropriately (77%) much more than they reward those that adopt good social investment practices (44%). This impact is even greater among institutional donors – 85% and 49% respectively.

GENERATION Z: HOW DO YOUNG PEOPLE BETWEEN 18 AND 27 DONATE?

As with the general population, the data on Generation Z shows that they are also donating more. Meanwhile, in 2020, 63% of them said they had made some kind of donation, and in 2022 the figure reached 84%, matching the national average. The highlights of donations in this section are mainly donors of goods (76%) and voluntary work (30%). When it comes to donating money to NGOs and socio-environmental projects, young people are 9 points below the general average, at 27% compared to 36% – a natural phenomenon, since the availability of money at these ages is sometimes lower than when compared to older people. On the other hand, they also tend to have a more positive view of donations and NGOs.

The Research also shows that young people who donate also tend to promote or contribute in some way to fundraising or mobilization campaigns to help other people. This was confirmed by 7 out of 10 young donors in 2022, and 20% of them say they have done it more than once.

When it comes to causes, actions related to children, health, and the fight against hunger are the most popular among Brazilians, and this is also true among young people. However, the ranking still shows a difference between Generation Z donors and the general population. Young people are more sensitive to homeless people, showing a willingness to take on more visible issues with more immediate impacts. The animal cause also has more supporters among Generation Z than in the population as a whole.

OUTLOOK 2023

In general, there is an optimistic outlook regarding the growth in donation practices. Among institutional donors, 45% say they will donate more the following year. In the previous edition, this percentage was 36%. The same movement appears among Generation Z donors: 52% say they are willing to donate more. It is also positive that 93% of non-donors said they could start donating, a big change from 2020 when only 57% were willing to do so. The trigger for the change in attitude, however, was mixed. 28% said they would donate if they had more money, 13% said they would like to know how the money is being used and 12% wanted to meet an NGO they trust.

METHODOLOGY

The 2022 Brazil Giving Research was carried out between May 3 and June 13, 2023, using a quantitative approach, with 1,508 telephone interviews. The sample is representative of the national scenario and the margin of error is 2.5 percentage points up or down.

Participants’ profile

– Men and women

– Class: ABC

– Age: over 18 years old

– Family income greater than 1 minimum wage

ORGANIZATION AND SUPPORTERS

The 2022 Brazil Giving Research is an initiative of IDIS Institute for the Development of Social Investment and CAF – Charities Aid Foundation. Ipsos was responsible for carrying out the research and Instituto Beja, Movimento Bem Maior, Raízen, Instituto ACP, Instituto Galo da Manhã, Instituto MOL, Doare, and Instituto Phi, were the financial supporters. Philanthropists Luis Stuhlberger and Teresa Bracher also contributed.

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Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2023: the importance of boldness for the evolution of philanthropy

Publicado em 22 de setembro de 2023 por lxavier

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On September 14th, the 12th edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum took place in São Paulo. Organized by IDIS – the Institute for the Development of Social Investment, the event aims to accelerate solutions through connections and promote philanthropy in the country.

With the theme of BOLDNESS, the sessions covered topics such as ESG, territorial transformation, impact assessment, endowment funds, and much more. Throughout the day, more than 40 speakers from Brazil and abroad participated. There were 265 guests in attendance, and the live broadcast received over 1,800 views.

There were 13 sessions in 10 hours of programming, featuring 43 speakers. Notable names included Armínio Fraga (Philanthropist and former President of the Central Bank), Braulina Baniwa (Director of the National Articulation of Indigenous Women Warriors of Ancestry), Eduardo Saron (President of the Itaú Foundation), Gelson Henrique (Executive Coordinator of the PIPA Initiative), Geyze Diniz (Co-founder of the Pact Against Hunger), Gilson Rodrigues (President of G10 Favelas), Jean Jereissati (CEO of AMBEV), Luciana Temer (CEO of the Liberta Institute), Priscila Cruz (Executive President of Todos pela Educação), Roberto Sallouti (CEO and board member of BTG Pactual), Rodrigo Mendes (Founder of the Rodrigo Mendes Institute), as well as international guests such as Guerda Nicolas (Co-founder of Ayiti Community Trust) and Nivedita Narain (CEO of CAF India).

After an exciting opening featuring Favela Music artists, the opening panel ‘Boldness: a cross-cutting element for transformative, diverse, and inclusive impact’ set the tone for the event right away, which throughout the program brought different perspectives to the need for bold actions in Private Social Investment to address our socio-environmental challenges.

Next, in the plenary session ‘Family philanthropy: addressing invisible causes’, examples of individuals who dare to invest their resources in neglected causes, territories, and organizations, sometimes controversial in the eyes of the general public, were discussed, and how this contributes to fostering a culture of giving.

Another panel brought a discussion about a less explored topic: mistakes. It is common for us to seek inspiration only from successful cases, but the panel ‘Learning from mistakes: stories of those who took risks and didn’t succeed on the first try’ showed how looking at what didn’t go as expected can be equally inspiring.

The program also featured the participation of the 2022 winners of the ‘Social Entrepreneurship Award’ from Folha de S. Paulo and the Schwab Foundation, who were able to present their initiatives and purposes of action. The panel was moderated by Eliane Trindade, editor of the Award.

Next, Sir Ronald Cohen, considered one of the gurus of Impact Investing, participated via video, delivering an inspiring and powerful message about what he calls the Impact Revolution, encouraging everyone to do things differently and take risks to generate effective transformations. Check it out.

Fueled by the call, the next panel, ‘The boldness of philanthropy in the ESG Agenda’, brought the corporate perspective on the topic. In a scenario where the ESG agenda is advancing rapidly, it is important for companies to engage in Private Social Investment with a long-term vision and a clear understanding of the contributions of ISP to their sustainability strategy.

After the morning program concluded, the guests participated in a cocktail followed by a thematic lunch: each table had a host who proposed a conversation topic. Participants could choose from 18 options and delve into reflections on various issues.

Upon returning from lunch, Carla Reis, Head of the Department of the Industrial and Service Complex of Health in the area of Productive Development, Innovation, and Foreign Trade at BNDES, presented the ‘Together for Health’ program and showed how, through a matchfunding model, the bank is combining public and philanthropic capital to strengthen public health in the North and Northeast of Brazil.

The interview in the traditional ‘In Conversation with…’ session was with Armínio Fraga, a philanthropist, founder of Gávea Investimentos, and former president of the Central Bank. He explained the reasons that led him to Private Social Investment and talked about the projects he is currently involved in.

Next, Rhodris Davies, in a video appearance as well, offered reflections on Artificial Intelligence. As the world and organizations discover how AI can be useful (or not) to society, how can NGOs and funders, instead of adopting it passively, take the lead in demonstrating how AI can be used to promote positive changes in society? Watch the video.

Another topic of discussion at the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2023 was the need for a careful look at territories, their uniqueness and knowledge, and how this enhances actions in various themes, amplifying silenced voices and building a more promising future for all. This theme was explored in depth in the session ‘Unlikely Alliances: Boldness in the Defense of Causes and Territories’.

The panel ‘Shifting perspectives: from reporting to evidence-based management’, in turn, discussed how the growing demand for effective results and performance improvement has driven organizations to abandon traditional data collection and presentation practices in favor of more dynamic and evidence-based impact assessment approaches. Guests shared the experiences of organizations that have successfully made this transition.

In the panel ‘Funding models: calculated risks for transformative return’ the debate revolved around increasingly innovative financing alternatives, aiming for socio-environmental impact.

Closing the day’s program, in the concluding plenary ‘More than ever, boldness is needed to fight poverty!’, our guests, leaders in their sectors and countries, reinforced how bold and creative actions can indeed reduce social and institutional vulnerabilities in Brazil and around the world.

“When we began planning this gathering, we had doubts if we would have enough cases of boldness. As we designed the agenda, we discovered surprising stories, and seeing them together was very powerful,” commented Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, at the event’s conclusion.

Watch the full event recording here:

ORGANIZATION AND SUPPORT

The event was organized by IDIS – Institute for Social Development, in partnership with the Global Philanthropy Forum and the Charities Aid Foundation, with silver support from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, and bronze support from Ambev, B3 Social, BNP Paribas Asset Management, BTG Pactual, Itaú Foundation, José Luiz Egydio Setúbal Foundation, Sicoob Institute, Movimento Bem Maior, RaiaDrogasil S.A and Vale.

This year, the forum had again Alliance Magazine as a media partner. Based in England, the world’s largest philanthropy magazine covered the event and livestreamed it in English on its YouTube channel.

BRAZILIAN PHILANTHROPY FORUM

The Brazilian Philanthropy Forum provides a space for the philanthropic community to gather, exchange experiences, and learn from their peers, strengthening strategic philanthropy for the development of Brazilian society. The event has already brought together over 1,500 participants, including philanthropists, leaders, and national and international experts. Recordings of all editions are available on our YouTube channel. Check it out!

Brazilian Philanthropy in Perspective: sign up for IDIS newsletter

Publicado em 17 de setembro de 2023 por lxavier

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Reinforcing our mission to inspire, support and expand private social investment and its impact, IDIS has launched ‘Brazilian Philanthropy in Perspective’, a newsletter which will bring highlights on Brazilian philanthopy and our contrbutions to its advance. Among the topics, trends on philanthropy, cases studies, articles, publications and surveys.

The newsletter will be sent quartely, and you may sign up using the form below.

ABOUT IDIS

We are IDIS, the Institute for the Development of Social Investment, a civil society organization founded in 1999 and pioneer in technical support to social investors in Brazil. With the mission to inspire, support and promote strategic philanthropy and its impact, we serve individuals, families, companies, corporate and family run institutes and foundations, as well as with civil society organizations, in actions that transform realities and contribute for the reduction of social inequality in the country.

Our actions are based on the tripod generating knowledge, offering advisory, and developing social impact projects that contribute to the strengthening of the ecosystem of strategic philanthropy and of giving culture. We value partnerships and co-creating, and believe in the power of connection, of joint learning, of diversity and plurality of points of view.

Global crises and the power of youth: highlights from the Philea Forum 2023

Publicado em 3 de agosto de 2023 por lxavier

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The Philea Forum 2023, one of the most important events in the European philanthropic ecosystem, took place between May 22nd and 25th in the city of Šibenik, Croatia. IDIS was present, represented by Guilherme Sylos, Director of Prospecting and Partnerships.

Under the theme “A new compass for Europe: Forged in crisis, Forward in hope”, the lectures addressed the various crises that have accumulated in recent years, both in Europe and worldwide. The discussions covered significant challenges stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as a keen focus on climate change, socioeconomic inequality, and growing tensions between countries.

In the midst of this context, the Philea Forum 2023 brought together over 700 people at the heart of the Euro-Mediterranean region to discuss what they call “European values” and how philanthropy can use them as a compass to face current challenges.

The opening plenary of the event addressed the landscape of European philanthropy and the importance of collaboration within the sector itself. Among the speakers was Nada Al-Nashif from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. She emphasized the importance of partnerships and collaboration to promote change:

“Equality, dignity, and justice are what unite us. We are calling on the philanthropic community to commit and, through vibrant partnerships, promote human rights”, she declared.

A research study was also presented, conducted with the participants of the event, about their perceptions regarding the performance of civil society organizations, donors, and the European philanthropic sector. The majority of respondents indicated that EU organizations should prioritize tackling climate change, followed by inequality.

Another highly debated topic during the meeting was the role of youth, their contributions, and obstacles in the fight against climate change, with a focus on the session ‘Building infrastructure to support resilient youth movements on climate: lessons from all over Europe’.

Katie Hodgetts shared her story as a climate activist, a process that earned her admiration from her peers and a sense of personal fulfillment, but also led her to face a difficult phase of burnout and emotional exhaustion. Inspired by her own story and that of thousands of other activists who also deal with the mental strain of their work, she created ‘The Resilience Project‘, an initiative that offers emotional support to climate activists.

The session also highlighted the current role of young people, who, through risky and disruptive ideas, can be some of the most powerful voices and agents in the fight against climate change. “Why are young climate activists effective? They are agile and outraged”, says Christian Vanizette, co-founder of makesense.

Several conversations focused on philanthropy, including reflections on its real impacts amid so many demands and its ultimate goals, which tend to be forgotten along the way.

In the debate session ‘Lessons learned over more than 30 years of philanthropy by a closing foundation’, Lynda Mansson from the MAVA Foundation shared the story of her organization’s closure, which, after 12 years of operation with a focus on biodiversity conservation, concluded that its goal had been achieved, and there was no longer a need to exist.

The closing session summarized the themes highlighted throughout the three days, with an even greater emphasis on youth and the potential for change that exists in movements formed and led by this group. The stage was reserved for representatives of the ‘new generation’ of young people who dedicate their days to seeking changes and positive impacts in the world.

“You wake up every day with anxiety, expecting bad news, and yet you brush your teeth and start your day. You maintain resilience. Young people are resilient and don’t realize that, often, what they are doing is democracy”, declares Anna Bondarenko, founder and director of the Ukrainian Volunteer Service.

The participants concluded with a simple but powerful message: ‘do good’. They also emphasized the importance of starting by looking at what is around us before any large-scale movement:

“How can we change the world, how can we change Europe, if we cannot change our local community, our family, our friends, our neighborhood? It’s simply impossible”, says 16-year-old Aleksej Leon Gajica, Junior Ambassador for the EU and for Children’s and Youth Rights at UNICEF.

The event highlighted the global similarities of problems and needs to be discussed and worked on by the private social investment sector, regardless of the region you are in.

“The issues are quite similar to ours in Brazil: trust, democracy, and freedom of expression. Furthermore, it is clear that combating climate change is a priority in Europe, another recurring and extremely important cause for the Brazilian and Latin American context,” comments Guilherme Sylos, Director of Prospecting and Partnerships at IDIS.

International ranking recognizes IDIS as one of the best Brazilian NGOs

Publicado em 5 de julho de 2023 por lxavier

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Dot Good has announced the top 50 social organizations in Brazil

On June 12, the Swiss organization The Dot Good, responsible for ranking the leading social organizations at the international level, released a ranking highlighting the 50 most prominent Third Sector institutions in Brazil. The evaluation criteria were based on transparency, maturity of governance levels, management, and strategic planning developed by the listed NGOs.

IDIS secured the 19th position in the ranking, proving our commitment to the socioeconomic development of the country and the advancement of the Brazilian Third Sector ecosystem.

Accounting for 4.27% of Brazil’s GDP, Third Sector organizations employ approximately 6 million people and have a significant impact on the social and economic landscape of the country, as demonstrated by the recent study “The Importance of the Third Sector for Brazil’s GDP,” conducted by the Institute of Economic Research Foundation (Fipe), Sitawi Finanças do Bem, and the Movimento Por Uma Cultura de Doação (Movement for a Culture of Donation).

The achieved social and economic outcomes are amplified due to the collaborative nature and networked approach in which projects of excellence and significant social impact are developed. The sector has been growing in recent years, and the effects of social actions are visible in the country’s sustainable development. The contributions of this work represent achievements in the realization of rights, and the transparency in the use of mobilized resources aligns with the highest compliance standards.

This trend of growth and qualification of the Third Sector in Brazil is a reflection of several factors, such as the commitment and dedication of organizations to improve their practices, the adoption of more efficient management models, and the constant pursuit of innovation.

“Initiatives like Dot Good contribute to bringing visibility to the great work carried out by our social organizations, with commitment, seriousness, creativity, and impact. It is another tool available to enhance trust among local and international social investors. We are happy to be included in the ranking; however, we also congratulate others who were not highlighted. Our sector is vibrant, strong, and diverse, and the contribution comes from everyone!” declares Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

About IDIS

IDIS’s actions are based on generating knowledge, offering advisory, and developing social impact projects that contribute to strengthening the ecosystem of strategic philanthropy and giving culture. We value partnerships and co-creating and believe in the power of connection, joint learning, diversity, and plurality of points of view.

Global CAF conference promotes network integration and discusses global philanthropy trends

Publicado em 4 de julho de 2023 por lxavier

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Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) Global Leadership Conference brought together representatives from partner organizations in the first week of June. The event took place in London, where the organization’s headquarters are located.

Since 2005, IDIS has been the representative of CAF in Brazil, a British organization dedicated to philanthropy with 100 years of experience, supporting donors – individuals, major donors, and companies – in achieving the greatest possible impact from their initiatives. Starting this year, new members will join the network, which currently includes representatives from South Africa, Bulgaria, Canada, the United States, India, New Zealand, and Turkey.

The event is a celebration of partnerships and international collaboration in the field of philanthropy, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to the continuous growth of international giving practices.

Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, was one of the guests at the event. She was able to share some perspectives on philanthropy in Brazil and highlight the importance of collaboration in increasing international donations to our country.

Paula was one of the speakers at the parallel event, open to external guests, called ‘Powering World Giving Reception,’ where she emphasized Brazil’s position at 18th place in the World Giving Index, our challenges, and advancements in the philanthropic field. She shared the stage with Grace Maingi, Executive Director of the Kenya Community Development Foundation, who shared insights on philanthropy in Kenya, and Emma Cherniavsky, CEO of the UK for UNHCR, who contributed with a speech on the role of networks in encouraging international donations.

“I was truly inspired to hear from incredible people from around the world! I would like to thank the entire CAF team for their impeccable organization and the wonderful reception,” says Paula Fabiani.

IDIS achieves Great Place To Work® certification

Publicado em 4 de julho de 2023 por lxavier

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IDIS – Institute for Social Investment Development – has achieved the Great Place to Work (GPTW) seal. This certification recognizes IDIS’ ongoing commitment to creating a positive, inclusive, transparent, and ethical work environment that promotes employee well-being.

This is the result of a rigorous evaluation conducted by the consulting company Great Place To Work. The survey, which is 100% confidential, covered aspects such as employee trust in leadership, quality of work relationships, organizational culture, people management, growth and development opportunities, compensation and benefits, and employee’s perception of the company as a whole.

“This is an incredible recognition for IDIS. It reinforces our institutional values: Excellence, Learning, Collaboration, Respect, Transparency, and Sustainability, as well as our commitment to maintaining a work environment with these characteristics. An organization is made up of people, and there is no success without them,” says Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

IDIS is proud to have achieved this certification, which reflects the organization’s commitment to promoting a healthy and collaborative work environment. The Institute believes that investing in the well-being and professional development of its employees is essential to achieve positive results and driving social impact.

“Having accompanied the development of the IDIS team for over 3 years is extremely gratifying. This achievement is just a validation of the sentiment that is already felt among the people at IDIS. And, of course, the survey is a way to always listen to each other and further improve our work space,” comments Mariana Côrrea, HR consultant.

The GPTW certification not only strengthens IDIS’ reputation as an excellent employer but also reinforces its ability to attract and retain talent, enhancing its capacity to generate positive social impact. IDIS will continue to cultivate an inclusive, transparent, and stimulating work environment, valuing and supporting its team of employees in their professional journey!

ABOUT GPTW

Great Place To Work is a renowned global consulting company that helps organizations create and maintain an exceptional work environment. The GPTW certification recognizes companies that excel in promoting trust, collaboration, and employee well-being, contributing to the success and sustainability of the business.

Operating Archetypes’ launch brings together philanthropists and social investors in Brazil

Publicado em 23 de junho de 2023 por lxavier

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On a June morning, IDIS – Instituto para o Desenvolvimento do Investimento Social (Institute for the Development of Social Investment) and RPA – Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors brought together philanthropists, members of business and family organizations, and civil society organizations for the launch of the brazilian version of ‘Operating Archetypes: Philanthropy’s New Analytical Tool for Strategic Clarity‘. The publication addresses and analyzes the main profiles of philanthropists and social investors, providing guidelines to maximize impact for each type of organization.

The study is an extension of the ‘The Philanthropic Framework’ project, promoted by Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors in 2019 through interviews with 75 foundations, as well as dozens of working sessions with over 200 funders, experts, and research partners in the United States, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The Brazilian version was published in partnership with IDIS, an RPA partner for over 10 years, in order to expand private social investment.

Learn more and download the publication:

Aligning resources with objectives for more effective philanthropy

Melissa Berman, CEO of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors and one of the authors of the publication, opened the event by presenting the goals and findings of the study. Melissa explained that the idea arose from the recognition of the need to systematize and renew existing philanthropic models in the face of emerging and growing global challenges. It was necessary for private social investment worldwide to also update itself in order to address such significant issues.

“It is not possible to solve 21st-century problems with a 19th-century philanthropy model”

The CEO of Rockefeller explained that the 8 archetypes were created with the aim of providing a strategic planning guide for organizations, bridging the gap between their ultimate goals, purposes, and available resources.

Melissa Berman, CEO of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, presenting the publication

After the initial presentation, a panel discussion took place on the findings and their implications for the Brazilian philanthropic sector. Moderated by Paula Fabiani (CEO of IDIS), the panel included the participation of Cassio França (Secretary-General of GIFE), Thiago Piazzetta (Project Manager at Boticário Group Foundation), and Patricia Loyola (Director of Social Management and Investment at Comunitas).

Paula Fabiani (IDIS), Thiago Piazzetta (Fundação Grupo Boticário), Cassio França (GIFE), and Melissa Berman (RPA) discussing the publication in the context of Brazilian philanthropy

Piazzetta highlighted the work of Boticário Group Foundation, which supports organizations promoting biodiversity conservation in Brazil. The group was one of the featured cases in the publication and serves as an example of the so-called ‘Venture Catalyst’ archetype, a profile characterized by providing initial funding, often unrestricted, to new or less-established organizations. “We avoid funding large organizations and choose to support smaller and more innovative groups and companies”, says Thiago.

Boticário Group Foundation has already financed 1,600 non-established and innovative environmental conservation initiatives through donations and other financial instruments, including an environmental impact acceleration program to strengthen the investment capacity of the business community.

Cassio França added to the discussion the importance of organizations that apply the Venture Catalyst archetype in their actions to combat inequalities in the brazilian context. According to the Secretary-General of GIFE, this model ensures power to truly innovative and impactful organizations addressing brazilian challenges. “It is one of the most revolutionary aspects that can exist in Brazilian philanthropy”, he indicates.

França also emphasized the importance of understanding the archetypes in the process of decolonizing philanthropy. The concept is based on the understanding of the need to overcome power imbalances within the philanthropic field, so that the mechanism does not perpetuate inequalities but effectively contributes to their eradication.

In this context, Cassio pointed out the archetypes as an excellent tool for philanthropists and social investors to recognize their modes of operation, understand their potential, and contribute effectively to the mitigation of social inequality. “I see this material as a great benefit for the field because it helps organizations understand themselves”, he highlights.

Patricia Loyola enriched the discussion by highlighting the importance of collaboration with the government in enhancing philanthropic actions. She exemplified the strength of the collaboration model through the Together for Health program, an initiative by BNDES managed by IDIS, which combines private sector donations with contributions from BNDES itself for public health projects in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil.

She related this movement to the Campaign Manager archetype, a profile that seeks to bring together experts from different fields, including the public sector, in order to produce more innovative philanthropic initiatives. “The government is familiar with the field and the needs that need to be addressed. It is not possible to partner with the government without recognizing its legitimacy”, she states.

At the end of the panel, Melissa pointed out the need for a review of philanthropic practices and indicated the content of the publication as a path to achieve this transformation. “I don’t think we have a choice but to react to the changes in the world, becoming more diverse, inclusive, and transparent organizations”, she believes.

To conclude the morning of reflections, the team from Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors (RPA) conducted an interactive workshop on the 8 archetypes with the event participants. They had the opportunity to reflect on which profile best represented their institute’s investment model, with the assistance of the RPA team for identification, and shared their findings with everyone present.

Interactive workshop with Melissa Berman during the event

The moment sparked deep reflections among the participants and revealed members who identified their organizations within various archetypes, including the Talent Agency, which identifies and amplifies the voices of individuals and groups who experience the issues more directly and closely; the Field Builder, who strengthens institutions responsible for generating and disseminating scientific perspectives; and the Sower, a model that provides support through diverse sources for the same cause.

Get to know the 8 archetypes and also take the opportunity to understand which model best characterizes your philanthropy. Download the publication here.

About Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors

Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors (RPA) is a nonprofit organization that advises and manages over $400 million in annual donations from individuals, families, corporations, and foundations. Founded in 2002, with the aim of continuing the Rockefeller family’s philanthropic legacy, RPA has become one of the largest philanthropic service organizations in the world and has facilitated the distribution of over $3 billion to more than 70 countries. RPA also acts as a fiscal sponsor for over 100 projects.

For more information, please visit www.rockpa.org.

Endowment funds: New country for an old form

Publicado em 21 de junho de 2023 por lxavier

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Originally published in Alliance Magazine on 06/06/2023

by Paulo Fabiani, CEO at IDIS, and Andrea Hanai, project manager at IDIS

A relatively new phenomenon on the Brazilian scene, endowment funds are strengthening social causes and organizations

With a long history behind them, endowment funds have become an effective mechanism for the sustainability of causes and organisations around the world. The first known example dates from the first century BCE, when Plato left his farm to support the Academy he had founded. Since then, many institutions have been establishing significant endowments, such as Harvard University, the University of Cambridge, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Wealthy families and individuals have also created endowments, such as Gates, Rockefeller, Mott, and others. In Brazil, the adoption of the mechanism is more recent, however, it has been expanding rapidly in this century, following the strengthening and maturity of the philanthropic environment.

The first endowments in Brazil emerged in the 1950s, as a way for families and businesses to build lasting legacies. In the absence of a specific regulation on the subject, they used the international experience as a reference to create their own governance, policies and rules to manage the endowment structures. Nevertheless, at first very few took this step, and by 2000, there were only six known endowments in the country.

In Brazil, the adoption of the mechanism is more recent, however, it has been expanding rapidly in this century, following the strengthening and maturity of the philanthropic environment.

A leap forward

However, in the following years, civil society organisations and families began to recognise the importance of endowment structures for the financial sustainability and perpetuity of their philanthropic activities, a trend which was accelerated by the work of IDIS (Institute for the Development of Social Investment) and other civil society actors to promote a better regulatory environment for endowments. A turning point was the disastrous fire at the National Museum in Rio de Janeiro in 2018, which led politicians to seek solutions to the lack of long-term financing for museums and other cultural institutions. In 2019, the endowment fund boom gained traction with the enactment of the first relevant law (Law 13.800/19), aimed at setting a regulatory baseline for the development of the endowment industry.

In the following years, civil society organisations and families began to recognise the importance of endowment structures for the financial sustainability and perpetuity of their philanthropic activities.

The legislation has contributed significantly to a more favourable environment, by ensuring visibility to the mechanism, and bringing attention to long-term strategies and sustainability. It has also established a framework, both legal and institutional, that engenders confidence in donors.

Moreover, the Law 13.800/19 has also ensured that public institutions of education, health and culture, among others, also benefit from these structures, regulating a mechanism that facilitates private donations and reduces dependence on already scarce public funds. In this context, the creation of endowments by public institutions that seek financial sustainability through an instrument that diversifies their sources of funds and increases their budgets is on the increase.

The Brazilian Endowments Outlook, published by IDIS in 2022, revealed for the first time the size and characteristics of the industry in the country. The study mapped 52 active endowment funds, 23 per cent of which were constituted after the enactment of the Law 13.800/19. Together, their patrimony totalled BRL 78.8 billion (approximately $14.3 billion). The most significant one is the endowment from Bradesco Foundation with assets equivalent to $11 billion, which puts it among the leading endowments not only in Brazil, but worldwide. Education is the chief beneficiary of this growing trend, supported by 24 Brazilian endowments, followed by culture (nine) and health (eight). Another sign of their growing popularity is that, according to the GIFE Census 2020, a survey among 131 corporate, family, and independent philanthropic Brazilian institutions, endowments were the source of 26 per cent of their budgets that year, corresponding to almost BRL 1.4 billion (approximately $300 million) in funds destined to causes and institutions, an amount which indicates the impact of endowments for the development of socio-environmental causes in the country.

The creation of endowments by public institutions that seek financial sustainability through an instrument that diversifies their sources of funds and increases their budgets is on the increase.

The challenges remaining

To explore endowments’ full potential, though, the philanthropic sector faces significant challenges: governance implementation, investment returns and fundraising capability are the main concerns. An emerging range of specialised consulting, legal and fundraising services, along with financial institutions and academic researchers, is now dedicated to supporting philanthropists, businesses, civil society organisations and public institutions in structuring their endowments. In another study, IDIS sheds light on the endowment financial performance and portfolio of investments to provide the sector with relevant benchmarking information.

Further advances in the regulatory environment for endowments are also needed. For example, despite being positive and innovative, the Brazilian endowment law does not foresee tax incentives for donors. The experience in countries like the US and the UK demonstrate that tax incentives create a fertile environment for the donations to such funds, resulting in large and long-standing endowments. In addition, the exemption from income tax on investment returns is not guaranteed by the Brazilian legislation, which cuts down endowments’ spending capability and the volume of resources destined for the causes and institutions supported by these funds.

In order to influence this environment, the Brazilian Endowment Coalition has been set up, a network that brings together 102 signatories and which urges tax incentives for donations and tax exemption of endowment funds as a way of accelerating the adoption of this mechanism and strengthening the philanthropic sector. Heading the coalition and supported by Brazilian donors and international organisations such as WINGS (with resources from the EU), IDIS reinforces its advocacy strategy by having regular communication with members of congress, monitoring bills, conducting studies and publishing case studies.

Notwithstanding the challenges, there is great potential and opportunity for endowments to flourish in Brazil. For the fourth consecutive year, Brazil rose in the overall ranking of the World Giving Index, jumping from 54th to 18th position, despite the difficulties arising from the socio-economic context and political turmoil of recent years. A giving culture is on the rise. As they become more popular, contributing to endowments provides another option for the exercise of citizenship and the promotion of socio-environmental equity and justice.

Umbrellas, Lightning Rods, and Cisterns for a More Transformative Philanthropy

Publicado em 21 de junho de 2023 por lxavier

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by Felipe Groba, Project Manager at IDIS

Still not very popular in Brazil, CFs stand out to support independent intermediation between investors and social organizations.

Imagine if there was a mechanism in Brazil that allows companies and individuals to allocate resources for emergencies and address highly complex socio-environmental issues in a specific territory, without compliance risks, and that also served as a legitimate instrument to advocate for causes and public policies without partisanship. Imagine if this mechanism could foster a culture of local giving and strengthen social organizations and local collectives.

These mechanisms exist. There are about 20 in Mexico, 201 in Canada, and over 900 in the United States — some with over 100 years of history — and they are commonly referred to as Community Foundations – CFs. CFs are independent civil society organizations that strengthen local philanthropy by raising resources from companies and individuals and strategically allocating them to generate impact in a specific territory, at the same time that supports the growth of formal and informal social organizations. They generate impact in a specific territory.

Visit of the IDIS team to ‘Tabôa’, Serra Grande, in Bahia.

Brazil currently has 14 organizations operating under this model in 10 states. Among this group, there are well-established organizations such as the FEAC Foundation of Campinas, the Baixada Maranhense Institute, and the ICOM – Community Institute of Greater Florianópolis, as well as younger organizations such as FEAV, operating in Valinhos, the Cacimba Institute in the São Miguel Paulista region (outskirts of São Paulo), the Manauara Community Association, and the recently formed ICOSE – Community Institute of Sergipe. All of them are part of the Transforming Territories Program, launched in 2021 by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, financed by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation and with institutional support from the Brazil Foundation, Comunitas and GIFE.

Visit of the IDIS team to Redes do Bem, a community organization in Rio de Janeiro

Most Brazilian CFs already have philanthropic funds established to raise and distribute resources to organizations and initiatives within their territories. In addition, they promote campaigns such as ‘Giving Day’, initiatives to engage volunteers and offer courses and training for local social leaders and organizations. Some of them also act as spokespersons for other Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the territory, advocating for the strengthening and regulation of philanthropic funds, unlocking resources, and advocating for legislative changes. The legitimacy to activate philanthropy and represent the social sector of the territory comes from the fact that CFs are not oriented towards implementing projects, but to channeling resources to local organizations that works directly with beneficiaries. Therefore, CFs become allies of local CSOs rather than competitors.

Successful experiences have brought some changes in the sector. According to the BISC – Corporate Social Investment Benchmarking research, published annually by Comunitas, 38% of the surveyed companies indicated some degree of priority to support CFs in the 2022/2023 biennium, while 86% of Foundations and Corporate Institutes assigned medium or high priority to them. Within the industrial sector, 75% of respondents stated that they have introduced or strengthened CFs in their social investment strategy (compared to 20% in the service sector), confirming the trend of the extractive and manufacturing industry to seek local socio-environmental solutions to mitigate their negative externalities and enhance their positive ones, in line with ESG practices (environmental, social, and governance).

The potential of CFs as channels for local social investments primarily stems from establishing robust, diverse, and enduring governance, as well as a systemic approach based on the diagnosis of local potential and needs. This is achieved through listening to different voices within local civil society and engaging in constant dialogue with organizations working for the territory. These characteristics align with what companies expect to strengthen their engagement with non-profit organizations. According to BISC, 90% of companies consider “greater evidence of impact in partnerships” as a determining factor for strengthening the relationship. In comparison, 80% indicate the “need for the company to operate within a network”. These are precisely some of the main characteristics of CFs.

It is important to note that CFs are primarily important intermediaries between donors and local organizations, aiming to meet donors’ philanthropic interests while always considering the demands of the territory. An example of this is Donor Advised Funds (DAFs), which are still relatively recent in Brazil. DAFs function as “philanthropy current accounts” for individuals and companies, managed by CFs, which are responsible for investing these resources in the capital market and distributing them to social organizations according to the donors’ preferences. This ability to accumulate resources for future allocation is analogous to cisterns that store water for strategic or high-need moments.

By consolidating and managing third-party donations, CFs are responsible for due diligence, monitoring, and accountability regarding the use of these resources. This allows large companies to fund projects and smaller organizations, as well as informal movements and collectives, as CFs act as a compliance lightning rod, mitigating risks for donors by being the direct receiver of these companies’ donations. Once the due diligence for receiving the resources is completed, it is up to the CF to mentor donors on the strategic use of these resources based on their broad knowledge of the territory, its demands and potential, and its organizations and leaders.

Last but not least, this privileged and democratically territorial perspective allows CFs to serve as spokespersons for the local social sector, advocating for rights and visibility, conducting social campaigns, or even advocating for changes in public policies without being directly exposed to authorities. CFs act as an umbrella, protecting social leaders from unnecessary exposure to political and power games.

Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2023: sign up to the live stream event

Publicado em 24 de maio de 2023 por glima

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The 12^th edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum is happening on September 14^th. Once again, in addition to the in-person event in São Paulo for guests only, the program will be live-streamed.

At the 2023 Brazilian Philanthropy Forum, we will highlight initiatives and people who paved the way for more transformative, diverse, and inclusive philanthropy and social investment. We invite you to be inspired by these stories. Create financing methodologies and models. Establish unlikely partnerships. Promote significant changes. Assume mistakes and move forward. Do differently what was already working. Innovate. Dare. BOLDNESS is inherent to humans but must be developed, experienced, and improved. It requires courage, creativity, planning, and perseverance to meet challenges and take calculated risks.

SING UP

Register here for the English live stream!

CONFIRMED speakers

Among the confirmed speakers are Armínio Fraga (Philanthropist and former President of Central Bank of Brazil), Carlos Humberto (CEO of Diáspora.Black), Eliane Trindade (Editor of The Social Entrepreneur Award of Folha de S. Paulo), Gelson Henrique (Executive Coordinator of the Pipa Initiative), Geyze Diniz (Cofounder of Pact Against Hunger), Gilson Rodrigues (CEO of G10 Favelas), Jean Jereissati (CEO of AMBEV) Luana Génot (Founder of ID_BR), Luciana Temer (President Director of The Liberta Institute), Malu Nunes (Executive Director of the Boticário Group Foundation for Nature Protection), Marcel Fukuyama (Head of Global Policy at B Lab Global), Mariano Colini Cenamo (founder and director of New Ventures at IDESAM), Priscila Cruz (Executive President of Todos pela Educação), Roberto Sallouti (CEO of BTG Pactual), Rodrigo Mendes (Founder of the Rodrigo Mendes Institute), Saulo Barretto (Founder of IPTI) and Tom Mendes (Financial Director of ID_BR).

The event will have international guests such as Nivedita Narain (CEO of CAF India) and Philip Yun (CEO of World Affairs and Head of the Global Philanthropy Forum).

ORGANIZATION AND SUPPORT

The event is organized by IDIS – Institute for Social Development, in partnership with the Global Philanthropy Forum and the Charities Aid Foundation, with silver support from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, and bronze support from Ambev, B3 Social, BNP Paribas Asset Management, BTG Pactual, Itaú Foundation, José Luiz Egydio Setúbal Foundation, Sicoob Institute, Movimento Bem Maior, RaiaDrogasil S.A and Vale.

This year, the forum will again have Alliance Magazine as a media partner. Based in England, the world’s largest philanthropy magazine will cover the event and live stream it in English on its YouTube channel.

BRAZILIAN philanthropy FORUM

Get to know the 8 principles that guide the SROI Protocol

Publicado em 16 de maio de 2023 por lxavier

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Get to know the 8 principles that guide impact assesment based on Social Return on Investment (SROI) protocol:

PRINCIPLE 1: involve STAKEHOLDERS

Individuals and organizations involved in the project should be identified and consulted in the evaluation process. After all, they are the ones who will experience the impacts from the interventions.

PRINCIPLE 2: UNDERSTAND WHAT CHANGes

The evaluation should identify how the project generates social changes through data collected for this purpose. These changes can be positive or negative, intentional or unintentional. This process generates what we call Theory of Change (ToC), which establishes the causal relationship between the intervention and the impacts generated. The ToC serves as a map of the intervention that guides the entire evaluation process.

PRINCIPLE 3: VALUing the things that matter

The valuation process, one of the key stages of SROI evaluation, should consider the preferences of beneficiaries regarding the degree of importance among the different changes they experience.

PRINCIPLE 4: only include WHAT IS MATERIAL

Materiality here carries a financial sense, referring to considering things that are substantial and supported by evidence.

PRINCIPLE 5: DO not overclaim

The evaluator should be conservative and assign value only to the impacts that are actually caused by the intervention carried out. By doing so, they avoid overestimating the impact of a project.

PRINCIPLE 6: BE TRANSPARENT

The evaluator should ensure that the sources, foundations, and methodological procedures are clear and accessible to the general public.

PRINCIPLE 7: VERIFY the RESULT

Design, implement, and document the procedures adopted in the evaluation, ensuring that they can be reviewed and validated.

PRINCIPLE 8: BE RESPONSIVE

Make evaluation an instrument of strategic planning, guiding solutions aimed at course correction and maximizing the generated social impact.

Where do the principles come from?

The SROI protocol originates from the British organization Social Value International (SVI), which has been certifying professionals worldwide for its application for the past 15 years. Paula Fabiani, IDIS CEO, is the only Brazilian certified by the organization, and IDIS is now a reference in the application of the protocol in Brazil, with work carried out for organizations such as Amigos do Bem, Gerando Falcões, Petrobras, and Vale.

According to the social value network, “social value means understanding the importance that people attribute to changes in their well-being and using the insights we gain from this understanding to make better decisions.” In other words, the evaluation aims to inform evidence-based decision-making processes in social organizations.

Considering the challenges of measuring impact, SVI establishes a protocol for calculating the SROI index that encompasses various participatory research methodologies, including conducting in-depth interviews, focus groups with beneficiaries, questionnaires, and analysis of secondary data.

It is evident, then, that SROI is not just a numerical index but primarily the process and results of an intensive research and consultation activity involving beneficiaries of social programs.

Brazilian companies are not prepared to respond to emergency situations

Publicado em 11 de maio de 2023 por lxavier

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By Andre Hanai, project manager at IDIS, and Paula Gonçalo, project coordinator at IDIS

About 25% of the deaths caused by rain in Brazil in the last 10 years occurred in 2022, and social investors must prepare more than ever for emergencies.

Between January 2013 and April 2022, natural disasters caused losses of R$341.3 billion throughout Brazil, according to data from a survey conducted by the National Confederation of Municipalities (CNM). The study also shows that in just the first three months of 2022, about eight million Brazilians had already been affected by some type of environmental disaster.

Speaking of numbers, another alarming fact on the subject comes from the government transition report released in late December 2022. It shows that the public money reserved for “support for emergency mitigation works for disaster reduction” was reduced from R$2.57 million to a mere R$25,000, becoming one of the budgetary bottlenecks for 2023.

In this context, solidarity has moved individuals and companies around emergency campaigns that seek to help communities most affected by natural disasters through the donation of food, clothing, medicine, etc., with Private Social Investment being a complementary alternative to public resources. The reduced volume of financial resources available and, mainly, the lack of coordination and strategic planning of actions show that there is a huge gap between social demands and the capacity of private social investors to respond to these tragedies, which increase in frequency and severity every year.

By definition, according to the ISDR – International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, a “disaster” is a “serious disruption of the functioning of a community or society, with impacts on people, goods, economy, and the environment, that exceeds the capacity of those affected to deal with the situation through the use of their resources.” The Covid-19 pandemic, a disaster of global proportions, has revealed the important role that companies can play in efforts to address emergencies, for example.

According to the 2020 Corporate Giving Ranking produced by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, the ten companies that made the most donations and sponsorships in the world in 2020 allocated more than US$4 billion to Covid-19 response actions – equivalent to about R$20 billion. Meanwhile, in Brazil, the top ten corporate donors have given more than R$3 billion to the fight against the pandemic.

Floods in the State of Bahia in December 2021. Photo: Isac Nóbrega/PR

On the other hand, these numbers contrast with what had been observed as a trend in private social investment by companies focused on situations caused by disasters. According to the study Measuring the State of Disaster Philanthropy, conducted by Candid & Center for Disaster Philanthropy in 2019, although 70% of companies reported that disaster response is significant, the amount allocated to this type of action has been decreasing year by year, demonstrating that companies see this type of philanthropy as not very strategic.

The same study shows that philanthropy and private social investment could be more strategic. More than half of the resources aimed at emergencies are directed toward immediate response and relief of the initial shock caused by the disaster. At the same time, only 20% of donations support communities in becoming more resilient, promoting risk reduction and mitigation, and preparedness and readiness for emergencies.

The study “A purpose-action Framework for Corporate Social Responsibility in Times of Shock”, developed by Francisco Javier Forcadell and Elisa Aracil, corroborates these data. It analyzed the performance of 218 companies in Spain during the first weeks of Covid-19 in the country and classified them into 4 categories (symbolic, selective, reactive, and supportive), based on the company’s performance in the two main dimensions considered critical to the effectiveness of corporate interventions in emergencies: the scope of the intervention and response time.

Companies classified as symbolic or reactive have a very slow response time but differ in the scope of their actions, with the symbolic being quite restricted and the reactive being quite broad, with a greater sense of social responsibility. The selective and supportive classifications categorize companies with a quick response time to emergencies. The selective is restricted in terms of the scope of intervention, generally preferring to act only when there is an immediate need for support, while the supportive looks broadly at the scope of intervention, allowing for greater flexibility and fostering proactivity and innovation. According to the research, 42% of companies had a “selective” performance, meaning they acted quickly but with a significantly reduced scope and less strategic approach, limiting the potential impact of actions on the beneficiary public.

The City of Petrópolis in February 2022 after landslides | Photo: Clauber Cleber Caetano / PR

Companies must broaden their view of emergencies, rethinking their private social investment strategy to support society. There is room for greater impact in the medium and long term, not only to assist communities in times of tragedy but also to seek their resilience and preparedness to face these tragedies, as well as their recovery and reconstruction. To do so, companies need to ensure clear structures, policies, and governance that operate quickly in emergency cases, ensuring that actions are effective and response times are shorter.

It is a fact that we must act to prevent the disastrous consequences of floods, collapses, or fires. But it is also a fact that they will come, and will have disastrous consequences in the lives of thousands of people. Are you prepared to do your part?

IDIS participates in the global event CCW2023 with a panel on Matchfunding

Publicado em 19 de abril de 2023 por lxavier

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Between the 1st and 5th of May 2023, will occur the 4th edition of Catalysing Change Week (CCW). Considering the most significant global event led by civil society organizations and social entrepreneurs, this year’s theme is “Solutions from the Frontlines.”

To inspire attitudes that contribute to the achievement of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) stipulated by the UN, the event – which takes place online – will bring together actors who are at the forefront of socio-environmental change ecosystems. The idea is that they share, throughout the week, their experiences and knowledge with a focus on accelerating collaborative change systems. Participants include representatives from the private sector, governments, civil society organizations, and philanthropists.

The event is organized by Catalyst 2030 and has more than 250 sessions and activities proposed by people worldwide. The objective is to identify local solutions to global issues and expand the debate and knowledge about good practices developed worldwide. To access content and best practices shared at previous events, click here: Embracing Complexity and here: New Allies.

About IDIS participation

IDIS, a founding member of the Brazilian Chapter of Catalyst 2030, will again be at the event. This year, the panel led by the organization “Matchfunding: a strategy to Enhance the Impact of Socio-environmental Projects” will discuss the concept of Matchfunding as a powerful strategy to raise funds and expand the expected social impact.

To illustrate the strategy, the Together for Health Program case, a BNDES Matchfunding initiative managed by the IDIS team, will be presented. The objective of the Program is to support and strengthen the Unified Health System (SUS) in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil, with a focus on improving and expanding primary care services. Over four years (2023-2026), the aim is to raise BRL 200 million for health projects that operate in this part of the country.

Luiza Saraiva, Manager of the Together for Health Program, will open the conversation, which will have the mediation of Guilherme Sylos, Director of Prospecting and Partnerships at IDIS.

Among the confirmed speakers is Carla Reis, representative of the BNDES, who will present the Together for Health Program and reflect on how the MatchFunding model can contribute to expanding the impact of government initiatives and strengthening public policies.

João Abreu, Executive Director of ImpulsoGov, the organization behind the “ImpulsoPrevine” Project, will also participate in the session. His initiative brings together free solutions and services for municipalities to expand the scope and quality of primary care in the SUS. The project is a potential beneficiary of Together for Health and is already ready to receive investments. Among other topics, João will address the challenges of fundraising for Health.

Maria Izabel Toro, Social Investment Manager at Grupo RD, and Andreia Rabetim, Intersectoral Coordination and Volunteering Manager at Vale, are also part of the panel of speakers for the session. From the funders’ perspective, the guests will discuss the reasons and benefits of a private company participating in a match funding style.

The week is an opportunity to engage, advocate and nurture the social entrepreneurship ecosystem. We’ll wait for you!

Registration to attend the session is now open! Register here.

Matchfunding: a strategy to enhance the impact of socio-environmental projects

When: May 4, 2023, from 10 am to 11:15 am
Where: Online event on the Catalyst 2030 website (Registration required to view sessions).

Opening:
Luiza Saraiva – Manager of the Together for Health Program

Speakers:
Carla Reis – Head of the BNDES Industrial Complex and Health Services Department
João Abreu – Executive Director of ImpulsoGov
Maria Izabel Toro – Social Investment Manager at Grupo RD
Andreia – Intersectoral Coordination and Volunteering Manager at Vale

Mediator:
Guilherme Sylos – Prospecting and Partnerships Director at IDIS

Brazilian delegation discusses Community Philanthropy in the Americas

Publicado em 8 de abril de 2023 por mnegrao

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Still little known in Brazil, the model of community philanthropy has been increasingly consolidated internationally as an important institutional arrangement for social development and addressing the various demands of the territories. According to a survey carried out by the Community Foundation Atlas, there are more than 1,800 community institutes and foundations in the world. Together, these organizations handle more than USD 5 billion every year.

To discuss the different contexts, opportunities, and challenges of community philanthropy in the Americas, 119 guests from ten countries in South, Central, Caribbean and North America met in February in Guadalajara, Mexico. The Brazilian delegation included Felipe Groba, IDIS project manager, and six other representatives of Brazilian Community Institutes, all participants of the Transforming Territories – a program from IDIS: Instituto Baixada Maranhense; ICOM – Greater Florianópolis Community Institute; Espraiada and Tabôa Community Strengthening Institute.

The event, promoted by CCA – Connecting Communities in America, an initiative of CF Leads (Community Foundations Leading Change), featured panel discussions and visits to social projects supported by Corporativa de Fundaciones – the community foundation of Greater Guadalajara – and which work directly on the issues of migrants and refugees, street children and community development. With a careful eye on diversity and the importance of everyone being able to express themselves in their mother tongue, there was simultaneous translation into four languages – Portuguese, English, Spanish and French..

During the plenary and parallel sessions, the participants discussed the contexts in which community philanthropy with a territorial focus takes place in their countries and realities. It became clear that there are regulatory and donation culture characteristics that differentiate the USA and Canada from the rest of the Americas, and that imply different levels of power and financial sustainability. On the other hand, all participants reinforced the need to strengthen organizations and collectives led by minority groups such as blacks and indigenous peoples, with the role of Community Foundations and Institutes – the CFIs – to make visible and support these groups in mobilizing material and technical resources and immaterial. According to Robson Bitencourt, Manager of the Territorial Development Program for Serra Grande and Tabôa surroundings

“the trip to Mexico was an immersion of observation, learning and exchanging knowledge in the field of philanthropy with other foundations in the Americas. It is important to broaden perceptions about the similarities and differences between what we do and what other organizations have also done, as well as the challenges and opportunities. The impression was left that we have opportunities to increase networking and leverage our actions”

The consequences of climate change on vulnerable populations were also at the center of the agenda, reinforcing the point that although the solution to this issue is global, the negative impacts will always be local and specific to each community. In order to unite efforts and address structural issues, the role of the CFIs as articulators of causes emerged, by creating local and even national coalitions to address major issues such as the lack of job opportunities, rural poverty, the issue of refugees, security and advocacy for rights and social justice..

The theme of trust in civil society organizations (CSOs) and their role in expressing the plurality of voices in a territory permeated all discussions. Panelists and event participants reported successful cases of North American grantmaking foundations that have increasingly adopted the donation of free resources – free of charge and without restriction to projects – as a basis for its financial contributions, recognizing the excellence and expertise of social leaders in managing their organizations and allocating resources in order to generate more impact in the long term.

During their stay in Mexico, the Brazilian delegation took the opportunity to meet and exchange experiences with teams from Comunidar (the community foundation of Nuevo León), Comunalia (an organization that supports community foundations in Mexico) and Corporativa de Fundaciones, in addition to having visited in loco the community foundations of Morelos and Malinalco.

“The technical visits to community foundations reinforced the similarities between Brazil and Mexico, promoting numerous insights and possibilities between Brazilian and Mexican organizations. We found qualified and motivated teams working in networks to promote social justice and community development in their territories” commented Willian Narzetti, executive manager of ICOM.

Felipe Groba, leader of Transforming Territories, adds, recalling that the meeting contributed to the identification of development opportunities for Brazilian CFIs at different levels of maturity.

Transforming Territories Program

Transforming Territories, an initiative by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment – with the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation to encourage the creation and strengthening of Community Institutes and Foundations in Brazil.

Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy is featured in Alliance Magazine

Publicado em 6 de abril de 2023 por lxavier

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In the Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy 2023 by IDIS – Institute for Development of Social Investment presents the current scenario, identifies inspiring actions, and points out ways for a more strategic and transformative private social investment, bringing together elements that contribute to decision making.

It second edition is features in Alliance Magazine, the biggest philanthropy magazine in the world. The article highlighted the eight perspectives that have ‘boldness’ as a common element, in addition to also pointing out the complex and current Brazilian political, social and economics challenges.

The news also addressed the contents present in the publication. Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, highlights in the introduction, the content ‘presents examples of innovations, new methodologies and financing models unexpected partnerships, significant changes, and new ways of doing differently (and better) what was already working’.

Download de full material:

Check out Alliance’s full article here.

Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy in 2023

Publicado em 22 de março de 2023 por mnegrao

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‘Boldness’ emerges as a transversal element and opens the way for a more transformative, diverse, and inclusive philanthropy in the country

In its second edition, the publication Perspectives for Brazilian Philanthropy by IDIS – Institute for Development of Social Investment presents the current scenario, identifies inspiring actions, and points out ways for a more strategic and transformative private social investment, bringing together elements that contribute to decision making. At the background, resonances of the preview’s year, marked by polarized elections and the need for organizations and entities to come out publicly and demonstrate their commitment to democracy, in apparent check. Also, the worrying return of Brazil to the UN Hunger Map, the serious situation of indigenous peoples in the Brazilian Amazon, in addition to the record levels of deforestation.

The material, comments Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, “presents examples of innovations, new methodologies and financing models, unexpected partnerships, significant changes, and new ways of doing differently (and better) what was already working”.

There are eight perspectives that has ‘boldness’ as a common element, reflecting and showing practical examples on how philanthropists and social investors can act in a strategic, effective, and agile way.

Find out what these trends are:

1. The power (and necessity) of dialogue for building bridges
Solutions will be found in interaction, require collaboration, and contemplate multiple demands and points of view.

2. Far beyond responsibility: legacy
What companies are leaving for the next generations.

3. Diversification of financing models
More than ever, optimizing and contributing to the evolution of possible sources of financing is necessary to solve challenges.

4. The number is not the finishing line
Social Impact Assessment has been increasingly debated and sought after, but once the numbers are discovered, what is the next step?

5. Environmental and Social Agendas walking side by side
The interdependence between climate, forests and people.

6. Third Sector engaged in promoting public policies
Civil society organizations strengthens democracy and accelerate systemic change.

7. Strengthening civil society organizations: trust, governance and transparency
The relevance of CSOs grow as the population’s confidence in its achievements evolves.

8. Family Philanthropy shows its face
Individuals and families make public commitments about their donation practices.

Systems Change Funding: Lessons from Funders in Brazil

Publicado em 28 de fevereiro de 2023 por mnegrao

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On 16 December 2022, IDIS and Catalyst 2030 co-hosted the third in a series of global conversations for funders on the future of funding systems change (read about the first salon and second salon). This series brings together funders within a country or region to share context specific feedback on the ten principles in the Urgent NGO Letter.

The Letter, led by Catalyst 2030 members, gained over 1,100 signatures from 80+ countries and marks a significant call from the social sector to shift funding practices globally. It outlines ten key calls for funders to consider in their grantmaking practices, including: giving multi-year, unrestricted funding, investing in capacity building, and creating transformative rather than transactional relationships. Read the full list of principles in the letter here.

This Salon assembled Brazilian philanthropists and funding organisations to discuss how these principles could work in practice, and the impact they would have on Brazilian philanthropy and civil society. We are hugely appreciative of all of those that participated in this discussion and who are leading the way in open and inclusive dialogue to improve philanthropy for all.

Here are five key takeaways from the conversation:

Recognise the impact of national context

Grantmakers usually have specific guidelines for their social investment. While it could be read as a sign of transparency, it also limits Brazilian funders’ ability to provide unrestricted and flexible funding. This restriction affects both funders and grantee-partner’s ability to embrace this principle as the sector is not currently set up to enable such flexible practices. This inflexibility also impacts funders ability to fund institutional needs or networks, as statutory restrictions require grantee-partners to follow traditional due diligence and accreditation processes.

Foster collaboration across the sector

Although this challenge is not unique to Brazil, the group discussed how there is a need for greater collaboration among funders and civil society actors within the country. This requires both a behaviour and mindset shift across the sector; a move away from siloed work and towards funders and grantee-partners working in true partnership; collaborating with other funders, grantees, and cross-sector stakeholders to achieve systemic change.

Offer philanthropists multiple entry points which recognise their variety

Embracing these ten principles will be a different journey for every organisation. It is important to respect the difference in maturity of philanthropies, different investment strategies, and different statutory and operational arrangements which may impact this journey. The group suggested taking into account the different entry points of each funder and evaluating it accordingly, ensuring a funder response recognises the need and strength of each funder’s progress and individuality.

Consider other tools (such as a rating) to help funders improve their practices

It is crucial to consider which tools and resources we are able to provide in order to better improve funders’ abilities to embrace these principles. This could include incentivising funders in new captivating ways by, for example, using a rating and grading system to indicate their progress towards embracing these principles. This way funders would not only obtain a grade but also understand in which areas they can improve. We must acknowledge the fact that making a donation goes beyond its social value. Creating a public ranking in which companies will be acknowledged for their contributions and their “legacy” can mobilise other funders to join the movement, positioning these principles as a Brazilian innovation in the sector.

Recognise that this journey might take time and support funders along the way

Philanthropy as a sector is relatively new to Brazil. It is important to recognise this and the time it will take to bring funders on this learning journey before they are able to fully adopt these principles. Therefore, the group discussed the importance of respecting each funder’s journey and celebrating progress along the way. Documenting this progress and creating a community of practice whereby funders can learn from best practices in the field, could provide the long-term support funder’s need to make this shift. This requires establishing strong ecosystems of funders who can turn to one another, share learnings, and grow as a sector.

Where do we go next?

We are continuing to host Donor Salons to gather feedback from funders in different country and regional contexts. Our next stop in this journey is with funders in Africa. Stay tuned to hear the key takeaways from this conversation.

Together for Health: a Matchfunding initiative to strengthen the Brazilian Public Health System (SUS)

Publicado em 22 de fevereiro de 2023 por mnegrao

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The Brazilian Unified Health System, known as SUS, is universal, free, and a worldwide reference. Nevertheless, it could benefit even more people and perform better if allocating public and private resources.

Did you know that for 18% of the Brazilian population, especially in the North and Northeast regions, the number of doctors available in public health is less than 1 for every thousand inhabitants? The Brazilian average is 2.15 per thousand.

In addition, the average life expectancy in these regions is 3 years lower than in the rest of the country. At the same time, the infant mortality rate is 3% higher compared to the Central and South regions.

Let’s change this reality together!

What is Together for Health?

Together for Health Program is a donation initiative of the BNDES (National Bank of Social and Economic Development) in the matchfunding style. In other words, it will be co-financed by the private enterprise and social organisations to allocate R$ 200 million* to projects in the health area of the North and Northeast regions over four years.

R$ 1 in donations + R$ 1 BNDES = donation to strengthen public health

With these guidelines, the initiative confirms its alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 – Health and Wellness, and 10 – Inequality Reduction.

What is the Program’s goal?

Supporting and strengthening the Brazilian Health System (SUS) in the North and Northeast regions, focusing on improving the efficiency of health service provision, quality, and integration of the system as a whole.

Who will benefit from the Program?

The entities that can receive resources from the program are: non-profit private organizations (Philanthropic Health Units, for example) or public bodies that do not depend on transfers of resources from the Union for their maintenance. The health projects presented must be in line with the premises of Together for Health and will be submitted to the approval of the Validation Committee, formed by members of the BNDES and other supporters of Together for Health.

How will the resources be invested?

Depending on the supported health unit’s needs, there will be three possibilities for investment:

– Fixed assets: equipment acquisition or execution of recovery, modernization, expansion, and construction works;

– Management: telehealth system, digital systems, regulation systems, and implementation of applied management methodologies;

– Campaigns: cost of temporary health service provision campaigns associated with the start of health infrastructure operation.

Who participates:

– BNDES – Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social (National Bank of Economic and Social Development): promoter and financer of the initiative.

– IDIS – Instituto para o Desenvolvimento do Investimento Social (Institute for the Development of Social Investment): responsible for resource management, fundraising, and project selection that will benefit from the Program.

– Impulso Gov: author of “Impulso Previne”, a project that brings together solutions and free services for municipalities to expand the reach and quality of SUS primary care and is already eligible to receive investments.

Together for Health supporters

– Vale Foundation

– Banco do Brasil Foundation

Join us!
To learn more about how to get involved, visit our website or contact juntospelasaude@idis.org.br

* On December 2022, USD 1 is equivalent to R$ 5,20

CAF launches Global Philanthropy Hub with free content from 10 countries

Publicado em 25 de novembro de 2022 por lxavier

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The platform aims to promote the culture of giving around the world, through content on philanthropy produced by partners of CAF’s International Network

Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) is a British organization dedicated to philanthropy for over 90 years, facilitating donations and charitie programs around the world. In Brazil, CAF has been represented by IDIS since 2005.

Nowadays, CAF International is the largest support structure for philanthropy around the world. Beyond of the UK Office, the network also includes operations in South Africa, Australia (Good2Give), Brazil (IDIS), Bulgaria (BCause), Canada, United States, India, and Turkey (Tusev).

Thinking about facilitating and strengthening this cross-border giving, CAF launched in the first weeks of December 2022, during #philanthropyweek , a Philanthropy Hub, which brings together contents, both from network members and other partners in 10 different countries.

The Hub includes content about the themes:

Country Philanthropy Profiles
Supporting Emergency Relief
Enabling Private Philanthropy
Inspiring Corporate Giving
Facilitating Workplace Giving

ACESS THE GLOBAL PHILANTHROPY HUB

Hope is a discipline: highlights from the Global Philanthropy Forum 2022

Publicado em 13 de novembro de 2022 por mnegrao

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With a view to the Golden Gate, San Francisco’s postcard, the Global Philanthropy Forum (GPF) took place in November. In celebration mood, after two years without face-to-face meetings, the event brought together 160 participants over two days of programming. The Brazilian delegation, led by IDIS, was once again present, with 11 members from different organizations.

Racial and Gender equity, local and trust-based giving, and philanthropy’s contribution to the fight against climate change were some of the GPF themes present throughout many of the event’s debates.

The opening plenary had as its theme ‘Democracy under Threat’. Authoritarianism, disinformation, hate speech and attacks on human rights are evident in many parts of the world. The challenges are not few, but as speaker David Litt said, “people still want to live in a democracy” and that’s why there are so many initiatives that pave the way for a more promising future. Examples include actions to reduce polarization based on building relationships, crowdfunding and strengthening of institutions. In this session, as in others throughout the day, the importance of a helathy information spece, with independent vehicles and the safety of journalists, was highlighted.

Racial justice was the focus of the second session of the event, but it permeated a number of other conversations. Angela Glover Blackwell, activist at PolicyLink, was interviewed by Philip Yun, CEO of the GPF, and drew attention to the fact that the fight for equity is known to blacks, but whites are still not comfortable talking about racism and we must find ways for them to develop that muscle. Angela spoke the phrase that became the mantra of the event – “hope is a discipline”. She reinforced that talking about racism requires discipline and that better narratives are needed, as there are many stories that can be told. She highlighted that it is necessary to change the system based on oppression to one where generosity is the engine and that it is with equity that we will all progress.

In a session that focused on impact businesses led by blacks and browns, it was stressed the importance of unrestrited giving, so that organization may invest in their priorities and eventually make mistakes. On the other had, philanthropists shoulnd´t face out. They can be close, contribute to reflections and offer training and capacity building. For the next year, the GPF announced that it is interested in bringing a session based on a study on donors of colour, carried out by the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

Several debates focused on philanthropy. One session addressed the role of donations in building a more equitable economy, the other a reflection on how to invest in local knowledge. There was a workshop on how to structure giving circles and encourage giving from a community perspective. And of course, a plenary session showcased innovative models. The importance of trust-based giving, and long-term support was mentioned at every table. According to Glen Galaich, CEO of the Stupski Foundation, “we waste time over complicate things, while our concern should be just donating resources”.

There were many speeches about the importance of social agents being able to invest their energy in action and not in such detailed rendering of accounts. The idea was also defended that donors should be analyzed by their grantees and receive grades for that. The issue of greater willingness to risk was sometimes related to a way of solving complex issues: it is necessary to act and failure can bring great learning and even lead us faster to lasting solutions. Degan Ati, executive director of Adeso, an organization in Somalia, brought some figures for reflection: only 12% of foundation resources are destined for the global south, and 0.076% is earmarked for youth initiatives. “Transformative philanthropy must change these numbers, while giving visibility to the generosity and small donations that happen daily among the most vulnerable,” said Degan.

Another very important aspect was the look at the donation from the local perspective. Canadian activist Yonis Hassan called attention to the change in narrative – “it’s not a charity. Donors are not helping organizations. It is the organizations that are helping donors achieve the change they want to see.” He was very emphatic about the importance of funding organizations that operate in a specific territory and strengthening leadership. The indigenous Nemonte Nenquimo, in turn, told her story of fighting for the right to land and protecting forests in Ecuador. In its movement, it brings together indigenous people affected by state action and those who still live in more isolated lands, as well as international agents that contribute to articulation.

It is estimated that the equity of American foundations invested in funds is 160 billion dollars. These resources are ‘stopped’ and that’s why the debate on management is big in the country. The #HalfMyDAF movement advocates that half of these amounts be transferred to CSOs and proposes to match everything that is donated. Along the same lines, Glen Galeich points out that “foundations today are just part of the financial system and that money is just circulating to generate more money”. Increased speed of resource transfer, transparency, accountability, blended finance and venture philanthropy mechanisms were explored. The duration of funding was also highlighted. For Carlos Saavedra, executive director of the Ayni Institute, “transformation takes time. Donations for just 1 year is nothing. Financing must be between 3 and 10 years.”

The issue of global health, based on the experiences of the pandemic, gained a specific session. “Covid was a magnifying glass, revealing the inequalities in detail,” said Chet Hewitt, CEO of the Sierra Health Foundation. The importance of social organizations at this time was highlighted, the legitimacy that local leaders had to guide the population and how they were crucial partners for the public power.

Empathy and collaboration as basic elements for the advances we want to see were present throughout the event, which included in the agenda several moments for interaction between participants. “I had the opportunity to meet people with very interesting experiences and exchange points of view. By participating in the event, I broadened my horizons and I believe that interesting partnerships may emerge.” comments Luisa Lima, communication and knowledge manager at IDIS, and also responsible for producing the Brazilian Forum of Philanthropists and Social Investors, the local version of the GPF.

Brazil at the Global Philanthropy Forum

Led by Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS, and Luisa Lima, the GPF delegation had the participation of Antony Assumpção and Rodrigo Lowen (Hospital Pequeno Príncipe), Carolina Barrios (Fundação Maria Cecília Souto Vidigal), Daniela Grelin (Instituto Avon), Fernanda Quintas and Rosalu Ferraz Fladt Queiroz (Solidarity League), Guilherme Barros (Lemman Foundation), Juliana Depaula (BTG) and Nicole Rodrigues Carnizelo (Santa Plural Association). As partners of the event, IDIS annually organizes the trip, strengthening the relationship between the participants and with the global philanthropic community. Interested in participating? Contact us. The GPF does not yet have a set date, and will be released to our community as soon as it is announced.

IDIS is named the best Brazilian philanthropy organization

Publicado em 10 de novembro de 2022 por mnegrao

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Efficiency and excellence in management are key factors for social organizations to achieve greater impacts on the causes they defend. The “Best NGO Award” recognizes good practices in governance, transparency, communication and financing and, for the fourth time, IDIS was among the top 100 in Brazil. And this year, a surprise: IDIS was also named the best organization on the brand new category Promotion of Philanthropy, Volunteering, and CSO support, taking two trophies home.

“Receiving these awards makes me very emotional and fulfilled! We made many investments in people, processes and tools to strengthen our projects, and ending the year with this recognition reinforces that we are on the right path”, says Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS. “This is the result of the dedication of our team and council, in addition to the trust placed by our partners”, she adds.

Among IDIS´s highlights are the monitoring strategic planning and indicators, investment in financial management and CRM platforms, the creation of a diversity and inclusion committee, and the growing investment in team training and development. The result was the expansion of advisory projects with new clients and the strengthening of relationships with those who were already in the house; strengthening of own projects such as endowment´s advocacy and Transforming Territories, a program to develop community philanthropy at Brazil. Equaly important was the productions in the field of knowledge, such as the 2021 Volunteer Survey, the Brazilian Endowments Outlook, the Seminar on ESG and Strategic Philanthropy; and the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum.

The selection of the prize is based on a rigorous evaluation carried out by O Mundo que Queremos Institute, the Doar Institute and “Ambev VOA”, with the support of researchers from Getúlio Vargas Foundation (FGV), Humanize Institute and of the Toyota Foundation.

We congratulate all the organizations that work every day for socioeconomic development in the most different causes and regions of Brazil and who were also recognized on this year´s edition.

National Bank for Economic and Social Development selects IDIS as ‘manager partner’ to improve Brazilian public health system

Publicado em 18 de outubro de 2022 por mnegrao

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The matchfunding initiative will finance new technologies to expand health service in the North and Northeast of Brazil. By encouraging the participation of private donors, BNDES – National Bank for Economic and Social Development will double any contribution made to the program. Over 4 years, the equivalent to USD 40 million will be donated.

The National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) selected the consortium formed by IDIS and Impulso Gov as the managers for the “Juntos pela Saúde – Together for Health” initiative

Launched in June 2022, the initiative aims to increase investment in technology and equipment for the Brazilian population’s access to health, in addition to improve the Brazilian free and public health system (SUS). The focus will be the North and Northeast regions of the country.

BNDES will use the matchfunding strategy, in which it doubles the amount invested by private donors. The initiative aims to gather R$ 200 million in non-reimbursable resources, equivalent to about USD 40 million, health of it invested by the bank, which will be transferred to public and philanthropic health units that serve the SUS by the means of acquisition of equipment, IT, management improvements and health campaigns.

So far, there is already a declared intention of a contribution from the multinational miner company Vale, in the amount of R$34 million, that, as the strategy suggests, will be also matched by BNDES. These resources will strengthen primary care in the municipalities surrounding Vale’s operations in the State of Maranhão, with the expansion of the successful experience of the “Ciclo Saúde” (health cicle), project by Vale Foundation.

The Bank’s resources come from the BNDES’ socio environmental fund.

The contracted manager will be responsible for supporting fundraising and carrying out public selection of projects and/or structuring projects eligible for support, in the minimum amount of R$2 million. All proposals will be submitted to a validation committee, with equal participation of BNDES and donors.

The project manager will also have the attribution of receiving funds from BNDES and other supporting institutions and passing them on to the contemplated projects, following up on the application and monitoring the results. The management of “Juntos pela Saúde” will follow all the corporate governance and compliance requirements, with the establishment of measurable goals, contracting of external audits, dissemination of results and public selections. In addition to improving access to healthcare, the initiative has as goals the efficiency and transparency of the investments.

“IDIS is very proud of this achievement. Our experience in managing donations and creating robust governance structures, such as the Emergency Health Fund – Coronavirus Brazil and the Private Social Investment Fund for the End of Violence against Women and Girls, was certainly decisive in demonstrating our ability to deliver such an important and complex project”, comments Paula Fabiani, CEO of IDIS.

Founded in 1999, IDIS is considered one of the pioneering organizations in advisory for social investors in Brazil. ImpulsoGov, on the other hand, has the mission of improving health policies through the intelligent use of data and technology.

The expectation is that the selected consortium will be hired in December, after technical and legal analysis by the BNDES, and that, in 2023, it will start working on the selection and structuring of projects.

Volunteering in Brazil: Two Decades of Transformation

Publicado em 17 de outubro de 2022 por mnegrao

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In 2001, when the United Nations – UN established the International Year of Volunteers, amid the many celebrations at the time, the first Brazilian Survey on Volunteering became a landmark to know the profile of Brazilian volunteers.

Ten years later, in 2011, on the celebration of the Decade of Volunteering, the 2011 Survey “Volunteering in Brazil” expands its scope to better understand the volunteers.

Since 2011, Brazil experienced important events, such as the evolution of corporate volunteering, the holding of major events, humanitarian emergencies, and especially the impacts of the pandemic.

In a year deeply marked by the reinvention in the way voluntary work is done, the Survey “Volunteering in Brazil” becomes one of the main contributions to society.

This is a collection of papers to celebrate volunteering in Brazil, containing opinion papers whose purpose is to present the writer’s point of view.
They are diverse in terms of themes, characters, and styles, written by authors who kindly accepted our invitation to tell inspiring stories and bring relevant data capable of showing us how the Brazilian citizens, with creativity and perseverance, build a better and fairer society through volunteer work.

These sensitive reports show and record the important role of volunteer work in building a nation of citizens and solidarity.

The 2021 Survey “Volunteering in Brazil” legitimizes the work of thousands of volunteers in building a better Country, now and for future generations. In its third edition, the Survey brings a Brazilian portrait of the topic, points out to trends, and analyzes the changes in the last two decades.

It was prepared and coordinated by Silvia Maria Louzã Naccache, with the support of the consultants Kelly Alves do Carmo and Felipe Pimenta de Souza. The Institute for the Development of Social Investment – IDIS and Datafollha are responsible for the implementation.

To access the full Survey, CLICK HERE

Volunteering at Brazil: what companies have to do with it

Publicado em 17 de outubro de 2022 por mnegrao

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By Luisa Gerbase de Lima, communicaton manager at IDIS

The “2021 Volunteering at Brazil Research” shows a positive scenario and points the way to evolution through the participation of companies! In just two decades, the number of people who have done some volunteer work at any time in their life has more than tripled, from 18% to 56% of the population.

The number of active volunteers is also remarkable – more than one-third of the population (34%). In other words, there are 57 million Brazilians who donated, in 2021, their time, talent, and energy for a cause they believe in, and who made a difference in the lives of those who benefited from the action. And why do they do it? The greatest motivation was solidarity, indicated by 74% of the volunteers.

We are thrilled with the numbers, but we cannot say they are surprising – they match the findings from other surveys that show the strengthening of the Culture of Giving and volunteering. In the World Giving Index 2021, a global study by the British Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), promoted by IDIS, Brazil was ranked 54th among 114 nations. This solidarity ranking contemplates attitudes such as donating money, helping strangers and volunteering, and in absolute terms, we moved up 14 positions compared to 2018 and 20 positions compared to the average of the previous 10 years.

Another study, the Brazil Giving Research 2020, conducted by IDIS and with an emphasis on individual donations of money to causes, shows that despite the drop in donation rates, there is a tendency for society to mature – more than 80% of interviewees agree that the act of donating makes a difference and, among nondonors, this agreement reaches 75%. The concept that donation is good for the donor also grew significantly between 2015 and 2020, from 81% to 91% of the population, reaching an almost absolute majority. Another positive aspect is that the idea that the donor should not talk about donating is losing strength. In 2015, the statement had the agreement of 84% of the population, and in 2020, the percentage dropped to 69%. This is an especially important point because talking about donations stimulates their practice, brings inspiration, clarifies fears, and arouses interest in other people.

It is in this context that volunteering is developing in Brazil, and it can be noticed that, despite the pandemic and social isolation have shaken structures, requiring quick readjustments, we were capable of meeting these challenges – 47% of the volunteers started to be more dedicated, and 21% have started to carry out online volunteer works such as psychological support and actions linked to education.

Such advances are by no means spontaneous. They are the proceeds from the work
and investment of countless organizations and individuals. Studies and research
generated data and considerations; practice enabled us to learn from successful
experiences and also from mistakes; the enhancement of the regulatory environment brought more solid bases and technology enabled us to exceed barriers and contributed to connecting people and knowledge.

The “2021 Volunteering at Brazil Research” provides a portrait of where we are, indicates points of attention, and possible paths to continue evolving. Keeping the number of volunteers growing is always desirable, but the great challenge is to turn this trend into a routine practice – we currently have 34% of Brazilian volunteers, but only about onethird of them do it on a regular basis, with a defined frequency. The answer to this transformation is in another figure – only 15% of volunteers say they participate in business programs, an indication of the huge potential that can be explored.

When we unite corporate social investment with individual desires, we find a fertile field for solidarity actions by companies with their internal stakeholders, and that is where the corporate volunteering programs come from. Possible results of this merger are many, going beyond the social impact generated and the creation of an action routine. Improvement of the organizational climate, increase of the feeling of belonging, an opportunity for the development of competencies, strengthening of ties between employees, deepening of the relationship with the company’s community, contribution to the impact strategy and private corporate social investment, attraction of talent, and contribution to the brand reputation with other stakeholders are some of the benefits of solidarity actions involving employees. Such programs are also an integral part of the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) agenda, which is increasingly being considered in investor decision-making. By promoting corporate volunteer programs, everybody wins.

Generosity in the world increased, especially in economies with the most vulnerable people. This movement of caring for others and making donations, whether of time or resources, needs to continue if we are to confront the perverse effects of the pandemic and accelerate the improvement of the well-being of those who need it most. We are going in the right direction and we will move forward.

The “2021 Volunteering at Brazil survey” was promoted by Institute Datafolha and IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, and was coordinated by Silvia Maria Louzã Naccache and the consultants Kelly Alves do Carmo and Felipe Pimenta de Souza.

View philanthropy as a borderless endeavour

Publicado em 4 de outubro de 2022 por mnegrao

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By Atti Worku at Alliance Magazine

Looking back on the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2022 brings me a sense of joy and excitement. When IDIS invited me to join the panel to discuss collaboration in philanthropy, there was no way I could pass up the chance to join forces with my fellow panelists to highlight the importance and impact of localising philanthropy.

My introduction to IDIS came about a year ago by way of the Alliance magazine team. I’ve always been impressed with their work and was reaffirmed during the conference as I learned more about the multi-pronged and progressive approach they take in their work in the philanthropic space. While I initially didn’t know what to expect, I was confident that the event would be well-run given the thorough and friendly preparation process of the IDIS team.

I landed in Brazil a few days before the event. I was lucky enough to spend that time exploring São Paulo, and I found the city to be immensely beautiful and fun. From the MASP’s Black and Indigenous art to the stellar sushi restaurants, I fell in love with the small slice of this stunning city. I also joined other panelists for pre-conference dinners and had the pleasure of connecting with Matthew Bishop, a renowned economist who shares a similar vision to mine for modern philanthropy. I’ve admired his work for a while, so it was really special to meet and sit with him on a panel.

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Global generosity growth as more people donate and help strangers

Publicado em 22 de setembro de 2022 por mnegrao

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Brazil reaches record and is among the 20 most supportive countries in the world

More people donated money to charity and helped a stranger last year than in any year of the previous decade, according to the Charities Aid Foundation’s – represented in Brazil by IDIS, World Giving Index 2022.

Around the world, 3 billion people helped someone they didn’t know last year, increasing by approximately half a billion compared to prior to the pandemic. Around 200 million more people also donated money to charity worldwide, with donations rising by 10% in high-income economies.

The World Giving Index is one of the biggest surveys into giving ever produced with nearly 2 million people interviewed since 2009. This year’s Index includes data from 119 countries, representing more than 90% of the global adult population. People around the world are asked three questions: have they helped a stranger, given money or volunteered for a good cause over the past month? Produced by CAF, the World Giving Index will launch during the 77^th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, at an event in New York to discuss the role of the private sector in achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

For the fifth year in a row, the world’s most generous country is Indonesia, followed by Kenya in second place. Many high-income countries returned to the top 10, having seen a steep decline in volunteering and giving since 2018 which accelerated during the pandemic. In addition to the United States in third place, Australia (4), New Zealand (5), and Canada (8) join the world’s most generous countries.

The United Kingdom ranks 17th overall, up from 22nd in 2020, largely due to many lower-income countries also increasing their scores and rising the Index.

Ukraine came out 10th in the Index, rising from 20th in the previous year, and is the only European country occupying a place in the top 10. The high score from data collected prior to the 2022 conflict reflects the new ways to engage with charity which emerged in Ukraine, along with an increase in living standards and the need that was created by the pandemic.

Neil Heslop OBE, Chief Executive of the Charities Aid Foundation, said:

“Giving takes different forms around the globe, and even the definitions of what constitutes charity and generosity differ across cultures. Our World Giving Index aims to measure generosity as expressed through three human behaviours. Encouragingly, the overall Index score has increased, indicating that people around the world have been engaging more in generous actions than during the previous year.

“Against an uncertain economic, social, and political backdrop, the World Giving Index improves our understanding about global giving. Covid-19 has affected the world’s poorest and vulnerable the most, which has also disrupted progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Private donors and businesses are likely to be called upon to fill funding gaps and charities will need to work out how best to direct their limited funding for the greatest impact. However, in the wake of two difficult years and with further challenges likely to come, we continue to see great instances of global generosity.”

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE SURVEY

World Giving Index 2022 Top 20 countries:

	Overall
	Ranking	Score
Indonesia	1	68%
Kenya	2	61%
United States of America	3	59%
Australia	4	55%
New Zealand	5	54%
Myanmar	6	52%
Sierra Leone	7	51%
Canada	8	51%
Zambia	9	50%
Ukraine	10	49%
Ireland	11	49%
Thailand	12	48%
Czech Republic	13	48%
Nigeria	14	48%
United Arab Emirates	15	47%
Poland	16	47%
United Kingdom	17	47%
Brazil	18	47%
Guinea	19	47%
Philippines	20	47%

Collaboration, capacity, and change at the 2022 Brazil Philanthropy Forum

Publicado em 21 de setembro de 2022 por mnegrao

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by Agustín Landa at Alliance Magazine

After three years since the last national reunion, the philanthropic sector of Brazil came together on 15 September in Sao Paulo at the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum organized by the Institute for Development of Social Investment (IDIS).

More than 200 guests attended in person, and many more joined the conference virtually. With 11 sessions and presenters from around the world, the Forum explored the topic of collaboration. It was very inspiring to see many young participants and future philanthropists in the venue among more seasoned people.

Opening with Paula Fabiani – Forum IDIS 2022

Collaboration in action

A fascinating first dialogue was with Celso Athayde, the Founder of Central Unica das Favelas, Neil Heslop, CEO of CAF, Monica Sodre, CEO of RAPS – and moderated by Atila Roque, Ford Foundation Brazil. All of them were from very different backgrounds and used the space to host a dialogue around the factors that need to be addressed for collaboration in the sector to reach far, as well as fast.

Forum IDIS 2022. São Paulo. Picture: Andre Porto

The panellists stressed that cooperation is not the same as collaboration. Trust, honest dialogue, an openness to diversity, and empathy were among the factors that need to be a part of working in collaboration. But it must also be accompanied by a systemic focus to obtain a shared goal.

Monica Sodre reflected especially on how democracy is being attacked and should take care of. Democracy she said is a value, cannot be underestimated, and is a very recent conquest of society.

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The ‘S’ of the Brazilian ESG will not evolve without dialogue with CSOs

Publicado em 17 de agosto de 2022 por mnegrao

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The B3 (Stock Exchange in Brazil) revealed last year that it would have new rules for its Corporate Sustainability Index. The changes in the ranking stemmed from pressure from investors so that the companies evaluated became increasingly attentive to ‘ESG’ actions (Environmental, Social and Governance).

Following the announcement, B3 started to openly publish the scores of the 73 organizations participating in the index. Dimensions such as human capital; corporate governance and senior management; business model and innovation; social capital and environment were all disclaimed.

Among the top 10 companies, the dimension with the lowest average rating was human capital, which includes issues such as diversity and labour rights – followed by the social capital index, which covers the topics of private social investment and community relations. Both represent, not only, but essentially, the ‘S’ within ‘ESG’.

The findings reveal a weakness in materializing actions, measuring achievements, and an unclear commitment to social transformation. A study by BNP Paribas (ESG Global 2021) revealed that 51 per cent of investors surveyed considered the ‘S’ the most difficult to analyse and incorporate into investment strategies. Another analysis, carried out by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) in partnership with Deutsche Bank, shows that only 14 per cent of the ‘social’ ratings compiled by the GRI are aimed at investors. In contrast, 97 per cent of environmental ratings and 80 per cent of governance ratings have investors as their primary audience.

The next step for Brazilian companies

Facing this scenario, what should Brazilian companies do to evolve on the social agenda in their ESG practices? The answer is not simple, nor is it unique. Among the options, there is a great opportunity for companies to rethink the way they dialogue with communities, and the role of grantmaking and strategic philanthropy, promoting social transformations aligned to the business.

As a trend, we see a raising involvement of CSOs in companies’ initiatives and, more than that, a transfer of knowledge from the social organizations to their investors, instead of the other way around. Projects are developed in collaboration, and direct investment is made on CSOs, which can increase their influence and capacity for execution and transformation alongside beneficiaries.

The pandemic showed that in the most difficult moments, problems are concentrated in the most vulnerable populations, whether due to the precariousness of the system or to the lack of work and income. At the same time, the experience made it clear that they were the ones most capable of finding the best solutions. Proofing points are the gigantic mobilizations conducted by community leaders during the emergency, such as those carried out by CUFA (Central Única de Favelas), which provided basic needs such as food and PPEs and promoted entrepreneurship in favelas across the country.

The connection between the ESG Agenda and philanthropy can no longer be invisible or ignored. A Census conducted by Gife in 2020 registered an increase of 11 percentage points in the number of social investors focused on ‘strengthening civil society’ in relation to the 2018 survey. Instead of creating new and promoting their own projects, companies should choose to strengthen grassroots organizations, which are more likely to act faster, more precisely and promote the changes we long to see.

Renato Rebelo was the Project Director at IDIS.

Brazilian endowments outlook

Publicado em 9 de agosto de 2022 por mnegrao

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The first registered endowment in Brazil dates from 1956. The model, however, was not adopted by many organizations, and only in the decade of 2010 it started becoming more popular. The first law that regulates endowments was created in 2019 and since then the debate around them has been rising.

Little by little, there were news about new endowment, but there was no information about their number and sizes, or where they were located and causes they beneficiated. These are some of the questions that we at IDIS often hear. And the problem is that there was no data to answer them. Despite seeing the fruits of our efforts, we were not sure about the size of the endowment fund field in the country, nor its characteristics.

It was the urge to answer these questions, and many others, that led IDIS to develop the BRAZILIAN ENDOWMENTS OUTLOOK. After more than ten years of advocating for the regulation of endowment funds in our country, providing technical support for the creation of more than ten funds, and launching six publications on the subject, we wanted to have a clear picture of how far we have come.

The challenge was easy, as endowment fund managers are not used to disclosing numbers, let alone talking about their own difficulties. To our surprise, some traditional funds were willing to participate promptly, and this attitude spurred others to do the same. We gathered information on 58 endowment funds, six of which are still in the planning or structuring phase. In this publication, we have gathered the highlights we consider most important for the international public and those who are interested in learning more about this important aspect of philanthropy in Brazil.

Click here to download the Brazilian Endowments Outlook

Live Stream: Brazilian Philanthropy Forum 2022

Publicado em 3 de agosto de 2022 por mnegrao

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The 11^th edition of the Brazilian Philanthropy Forum already has a date: September 15^th. This year, in addition to the in-person event in São Paulo exclusively for guests, the program will also be broadcast live, both in Portuguese and in English.

Philanthropy is increasing its presence in the Brazilian news and society demands commitment and results. There´s been a move forward, solutions were accelerated through connections and challenged the saying ‘alone you go fast and together you go far’.

Brazil has never advanced so far, and in so little time. The mobilization caused by the pandemic showed the potency of collaboration. Public authorities, companies of all sizes and segments, civil society organizations and individuals joined forces. They intensified pre-existing partnerships and created new bridges.

Therefore, this year’s theme is COLLABORATION. At the Brazilian Forum of Philanthropists and Social Investors 2022 the audience will see how it is possible to go ‘fast and together’. Discover the complete agenda here.

Register here for English live broadcast

Carregando…

Register here for Portuguese live broadcast

CONFIRMED SPEAKERS

Among the speakers already confirmed are Ana Buchain (Executive Director of People, Marketing, Communication and Sustainability at B3), Flavia Rosso (Social Impact Manager at Ifood), Atila Roque (Director at the Ford Foundation in Brasil), Celso Athayde (founder of CUFA), Marcilio Pousada (CEO of RaiaDrogasil) and Mafoane Odara (Human Resources leader for Latin America at Meta).

Among the international guests we´ll have Atti Worku (Co-CEO of the African Visionary Fund), Agustín Landa (Founding Director of Lanza and Representative of the Alliance Magazine in Latin America), Melissa Berman (Founder and CEO of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors), Neil Heslop (CEO of the Charities Aid Foundation), and Sonali Patel (partner at the Briedgespan Group).

ORGANIZATION AND SUPPORT

The Brazilian Philanthropy Forum is promoted by IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, in partnership with the Global Philanthropy Forum and the Charities Aid Foundation, and has the silver support from Ford Foundation; and bronze support from de Ambev, B3 Social, BNP Paribas Asset Management, Arymax Foundation, José Luiz Egydio Setubal Foundation, Sicoob Institute, Movimento Bem Maior, RaiaDrogasil and Santander.

The event´s media partner is Alliance Magazine, the world’s largest philanthropy vehicle – who will cover the event and broadcast the event live in English on its YouTube channel. The sessions will happen from 1 p.m. at 10 p.m. (BST), with English translation.

ABOUT THE EVENT

The Brazilian Philanthropy Forum aims to provide an exclusive space for the philanthropic community to gather, exchange experiences and learn with peers, enriching the strategic philanthropy in order to promote the Brazilian society’s development. The event has already brought together over 1,500 participants, including philanthropists, leaders and national and international experts. Watch the 10 year aniversary video to see what is said about it!

See you soon!

Culture of giving in Brazil: Brief scenario

Publicado em 25 de julho de 2022 por mnegrao

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It is not possible to talk about innovation and trends in giving in Brazil without first looking at the landscape of the donation culture.

According to the World Giving Index 2021, an initiative of the British organization
Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) carried out since 2009, Brazil occupied the 54th
position among the 114 countries covered in 2000, rising 14 positions in relation
to 2018 data and 20 positions in relation to its average position in the last 10 years
(Charities Aid Foundation, 2021). The index is composed of the answer to three
questions made to a sample with national representation: in the last month, (1) did
you help a stranger, (2) did you donate money to a social organization, or (3) did you
do some kind of volunteer work? In a year of socioeconomic crisis and lockdown
caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, helping out a stranger was the variable that
evolved the most in Brazil, showing that empathy and solidarity are on the rise.

Another study also helps us understand how the culture of donation has been
transformed in the country: Brazil Giving Research 2020, the most comprehensive
survey on the practice of individual donation in the country, promoted by the
Institute for the Development of Social Investment (IDIS). Its second edition,
carried out by Ipsos Research Institute between January and June 2021, shows that
the landscape of the donation culture has changed in the country in the past five
years since the first edition of the survey in 2015 (IDIS, 2021).

Part of the change was an evolution in the positive perception of giving and of
civil society organizations (CSOs), as well as an increase in their credibility. There
was also a great advance in the way Brazilians understand what citizenship
is and engage in solving problems, with a greater awareness that social and
environmental challenges in Brazil must be addressed by civil society and not
exclusively by the government.

An aspect of Brazilian culture that has an impact on the donation culture is people’s
resistance to publicizing or commenting on a donation made to others. Brazilians
understand that saying that they donated means expecting some compensation or
something in return, or promoting themselves, and this is socially disapproved. This
attitude, however, is beginning to change as a result of assertive communication
campaigns and concrete actions by a local movement to foster the culture of giving
in Brazil. When talking about donations, influence grows, and so do donations.

Taken together, these elements are indicative of a more mature society.

In the five-year period from 2015 to 2020, donating in cash was the most popular
way of giving, chosen by 53 percent of the respondents, and only 17 percent said
they had made some kind of online transation. However, there was also a great
development of technological tools for donation, such as giving platforms, taxfree instant bank transfer methods (PIX), social media to promote giving with live
broadcasting and giving buttons, and even a timid emergence of crypto giving.
These developments resulted in advances in two directions: accountability and
operational ease of donating. From the perspective of CSOs, it is easier to publicize
their performance and be accountable, even though the third sector requires
a general improvement to become more professional and have a more robust
management structure.

From the donor’s point of view, it is easier to follow what is done with the donated
resources, meaning the effective destination of the money. Regarding operational
ease, faster and more practical mechanisms for donation emerged with donation
buttons on e-commerce and social media, PIX, and so on. Combined, these effects
are beneficial to further boost donations in Brazil.

With cultural changes and technological advances, an increase in the volume of
donations in the country would be expected, but it has not happened. In 2020, 66
percent of the Brazilians said they made some kind of donation, while 37 percent
confirmed they actually donated money for a CSO. Together, they summed a total
of BRL 10.3 billion (equivalent to a bit more than USD 2.1 billion in 2021, adjusted
for inflation). In 2015, the total donations from the Brazilians reached BRL 13.7
billion (equivalent to over USD 4.7 billion in 2021, adjusted for inflation).

In these last five years, Brazilians had to deal with the effects of one of the worst
socio-economic crises in their history, and then faced the worsening of this
situation with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the World
Inequality Report 2022, Brazil is one of the most unequal countries in the world:
the top 10 percent captures 59 percent of the total national income while the
bottom half of the population takes only around 10 percent of the national income
(World Inequality Lab, 2022). The pandemic has further accentuated this scenario.
The World Bank estimates that its effects drive up to 49 million people into poverty.
According to the Brazilian Instituto for Geography and Statistics (IBGE), the
country reached its highest unemployment rate since 2012 on April 2021, when
14.8 million people were looking for a job and the survey published by Oxfam in
January 2022 presents an estimate that, between April 2020 and April 2021, 377 Brazilians lost their jobs per hour, and that more than 600,000 companies
went bankrupt (Barros, 2021). The impact was felt in other areas as well. A survey
carried out by the Brazilian Research Network on Food and Nutrition Sovereignty
and Security pointed out that Brazil had at least 19 million people suffering from
hunger in that year (Gandra, 2021). The number of Brazilians who went hungry in
the new coronavirus pandemic doubles what was recorded in 2009, with a return to
the level observed in 2004. Before the country starts to recover and restructure its
economy, the tendency for this crisis is to worsen.

The figures show that average Brazilian in 2020 was poorer and more
concerned about their future than they were in 2015 (IDIS, 2021). Therefore, it
is understandable that part of their willingness to donate has been nullified by
uncertainty and economic insecurity, justifying the decrease observed in 2020 in
the proportion of donors of any nature, whether of money, goods, or time. Many
donors have probably become grant beneficiaries. On the other hand, classes with
greater purchasing power have responded, and donated more in 2020 than before.
As Brazil Giving Research 2020 shows—while the national average of donors was
37 percent, 58 percent of the people who earned between 6 and 8 times of the
minimum wages donanted in 2020—7 points higher than in 2015 (IDIS, 2021).

In Brazil, according to a sector mapping carried out by the Institute for Applied
Economic Research (IPEA), there are more than 800,000 active CSOs that
respond to the most diverse of causes (IPEA, 2021). The impact they generate is
increasingly communicated, contributing to the understanding that Brazilian CSOs
are closely linked to problem solving. Brazilians are empathetic and supportive,
and this cultural trait is receptive to the appeals of philanthropy. These are solid
foundations, and when the economic situation improves, a consistent recovery in
donations is expected. With knowledge and an understanding of new models for
enabling donations, it will be possible to go even further.

What Brazilian philanthropy learned from pandemic giving

Publicado em 29 de junho de 2022 por mnegrao

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Paula Jancso Fabiani CEO of IDIS and Luisa Lima Communications Manager at IDIS.

Collaboration and strengthening civil society organisations are key to tackling Brazil’s social inequality, a new report from the Institute for Development of Social Investment asserts.

It’s easier to make a fortune than to give money away wisely, Andrew Carnegie said in the 19th century. More than 100 years separate us from that statement, but it´s still an idea that philanthropy reckons with as year by year, it tries to evolve. While global trends are helpful to anyone working in the sector, a local understanding is crucial.

In this article, we share some perspectives on philanthropy in Brazil from our research, which we hope are useful to anyone interested in contributing to development in our country or their own.

The pandemic and philanthropy in Brazil

Brazilian philanthropy had been characterized by a project-making vocation for many years, but when the pandemic struck, the sector had to quickly work to respond to the moment’s urgency. Many philanthropists realised it would be more efficient to finance projects led by civil society organisations (CSOs) than to try to build solutions themselves – CSOs had more knowledge about the problems, were close to the beneficiaries, and had implemented solutions. Corporate giving in Brazil reached its peak in 2020, and most of the resources for dealing with the effects of Covid-19 were allocated to third parties.

In this context of increasing grantmaking, another trend was strengthened. Besides the success of the projects funded, philanthropists became also concerned with the survival of CSOs. The deficiency of project focused grantmaking was more visible during the pandemic, when hundreds of organizations, were prevented from continuing their activities, having, sometimes, no resources to maintain their own structures. Many received donations of food for distribution but could not find donors to support them pay the rent or the electricity bill. This logic is slowly changing in the country with the emergence of philanthropic entities focused on the institutional strengthening of CSOs, meaning good management, capable teams, and a financial structure with reserves to face adversities.

Philanthropy in Brazil was developing towards long-term investments. Strategic philanthropy, planning aimed at systemic changes and influence on public policies increased as a practice, as well as the importance of endowments and impact assessment. This transformative approach was leading the way towards the search for more definitive answers to problems.

Nonetheless, the health crisis and its consequences boosted emergency actions, such as direct distribution of food, basic supplies and even cash transfers. Urgency required immediate reaction. During this period, unemployment, hunger, and poverty grew in Brazil, deepening the inequality gap. The societal demands have expanded because the pandemic has shown, for instance, that those who do not have access to internet cannot study and miss opportunities for health care.

Expanding the learning from pandemic response to other causes

During this moment, some causes gained new attention. Racial equality, fighting climate change, and access to technology and connectivity have particularly stood out. And other urgent causes were reinforced such as the fight against poverty, the protection of democracy, and the struggle for human rights and equity for other minority groups.

When putting a light on corporate giving, some factors have contributed to a higher engagement. Many became involved for the first time in 2020 and some decided to continue the practice, even after the most dramatic moment of the pandemic. As reported in the 2020 GIFE Census, 60 per cent of the donating companies declared that they intend to maintain or increase the total amount of social investments in the years ahead. This positioning is consistent with the pressure from investors and consumers.

On the investors’ side, the ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) agenda gained relevance. Nevertheless, Brazilian companies still invest relatively little in following ESG guidelines. The room for development is immense, and there´s a growing understanding that philanthropy is a path to strengthen the ‘Social’ pillar of the acronym.

On the consumer side, there is increasing pressure for companies to take a stand and intercede when the government does not solve society’s problems. According to Edelman Trust Barometer 2021, more than two-thirds (68 per cent) of the population agrees with this statement, and 59 per cent of Brazilians expect CEOs to speak out publicly about social issues.

Above all, no single institution or sector, in isolation, has the solution to the complex problems that we face nowadays. The world in general, and Brazil particularly, are experiencing intense polarisation that fray the social fabric and makes dialogue difficult. Philanthropists, however, can build partnerships helping to connect CSOs, companies and government. If we had to choose only a word to summarize all that is needed, it would be collaboration. The pandemic has made it clear that we get further when we walk together and, contrary to the saying, we can get there faster too.

Article originally published at Alliance Maganize’s blog (click here) on June 4th

An Urgent Invitation to Shift Funding Practices

Publicado em 29 de maio de 2022 por mnegrao

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Catalyst 2030, a global network that works to make the world better and fairer for all, has launched an open letter aimed at donors and funders of non-profit organizations with an appeal for changes in their practices, making them more effective and improving sustainable social impact.

The action aims to gather 1,000 signatures worldwide, drawing attention to this important issue. As of May 25th, more than 500 organizations from 60 countries have signed the petition.

We at IDIS signed the letter and invite you, a member of a non-governmental organization, to join us in this call. This is an opportunity to accelerate social change by making financing practices more effective for the sector.

“To have any hope of making the world a better place by working towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we must more effectively address the root causes of problems through transformative changes in systems. A growing number of funders and organizations have realized that now is the time to advance global progress and find new ways to support change by changing current practices and norms of funding in the social sector.” Catalyst 2030. #ShiftingFundingPractices

Read the full letter

We are now in a stage of our civilizational journey where our world faces a cascading and interrelated set of global challenges that threaten the future for people and the planet. From endemic poverty, racial and gender inequity, species extinction, and deforestation, to growing fascism, and the climate crisis, the combination of these co-occurring and overlapping challenges signals that we urgently need to fundamentally transform the entrenched systems underlying these major problems.

To have any hope of achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reversing the destructive trajectory facing people and the planet, we must more effectively address root causes of complex problems, rather than treating symptoms. This is possible if we transform policies, practices, customs, mindsets, power dynamics and resource flows to achieve a lasting impact on a local, national, and global level. This is the work known as systems change. It is a comprehensive approach to social change that seeks to address the complex, large-scale, and deep characteristics of social issues.

A key aspect of systems change is sustained collaboration. True systems change occurs when multiple players across sectors, disciplines, and social groups – including funders and movement leaders – work together towards common goals over extended timeframes.

While we encourage funders to explore different opportunities to finance projects that can lead to social good, including those that offer some financial return to investors, achieving effective systems change, particularly the many aspects that need grant funding, will require a powerful shift from traditional philanthropic approaches where:

funders tend to rely on sources of expertise to understand social impact that may not center the leadership and lived experience of those who are closest to the issues we seek to address;
most funding goes toward alleviating symptoms of failing systems rather than towards the longer-term work of understanding, addressing, and mobilising change to address root causes;
project-specific funding is given in short-term allotments, which also often involves excessive paperwork, transactional power dynamics, and an overreliance on short-term metrics to evaluate success; and,
application processes and criteria can lead to unhelpful competition among organisations instead of incentivising the types of collaborations that are needed to change systems.

An increasing number of funders and organisations are discovering that there is a real-time opportunity to advance global progress and model new ways of supporting change by shifting current funding practices that finance the social sector. These needed shifts span across multiple types of funders, including funding from private philanthropy, governments, and multilateral bodies.

The following principles outline what we, a large group of civil society organisations and systems change innovators, as well as many philanthropic thought leaders and funder allies, believe to be the most critical and effective practices funders need to adopt as we tackle the complex problems facing our world today.

We invite you to consider adopting the transformative grantmaking practices below. Given the powerful role of funders and donors in influencing the work and scope of organisations working on systemic issues, these shifts will better enable and empower the social sector and will foster multi-sectoral collaborations that work towards the types of systems changes that are urgently needed.

Principles

Give Multi-Year, Unrestricted Funding: Addressing root causes of inter-connected systemic problems requires continuous adaptation and learning over the long-term. Trusting organisations with general operating funds for multiple years (at least three to five years, and preferably longer) allows them the flexibility to take the necessary long-term, iterative approach to tackling big, complex, systemic problems. This type of flexible investment frees up organisations to adapt to changing conditions and enables nonprofits to focus on their mission-critical work rather than focusing on where next year’s grants may be coming from. If a funder can only offer restricted project grants, make them multi-year and ensure they cover the actual direct (including staff salaries) and indirect costs of delivering impact (such as office rent and equipment). Consider providing more than enough for these costs to enable nonprofits to grow a surplus and reserves.
Invest in Capacity Building. Good ideas are not enough. Help your programme partners to build core organisational capacity and be responsive to what they say they need most. Nonprofits need to build a diverse set of capacities, either in their organisation or through their partners, to bring collective strength and sustainability to their work over time. Funders who put restrictions on overhead costs constrain organisations ability to achieve optimal social impact.
Fund Networks: Networks are tools in our social change toolboxes that support stakeholders to take collaborative action and to develop strategic initiatives that include multiple players who are part of the solution. Networks are also an excellent source for capacity building for those participating, incentivising collaboration, experimenting with new approaches, and allowing course corrections to happen quicker and more efficiently. Invest in infrastructure and coordination capacity for organisations to collaborate, build networks, and work together more efficiently and effectively.
Create Transformative Rather than Transactional Relationships: We need to evolve from the corrosive power relationships that have characterised many interactions between funders and grantees to date. To achieve transformational change, we need to practice a partnership model where we all bring assets and gifts to the change at hand. Money is one of those assets, as is community knowledge, people power, relationships, expertise, economic power, and political clout. Effective systems change work relies on all of these assets. It also requires shared sensibility for listening, learning, humility, and collaboration. Funders can give up some of their power to build our collective power for impact.
Build and Share Power: Non-profits and movement leaders have traditionally not been present in rooms where governments and corporations make big structural decisions. This is especially true for black-, indigenous-, and people of color-led organisations, as well as those led by women, young people, and people with disabilities. Funders can help rebalance these inequities. They can achieve this by sharing power with and building power for the social sector, giving more resources directly at the local level to organisations with local leadership and local ownership, and making more robust investments in organizations led by proximate leaders of color. More inclusive decision-making structures and spaces need to be designed. These spaces should encourage general operating and capacity building support to help leaders win policies and practices that advance the SDGs in their arena of influence. It is also important that funders are open to funding newer, early-stage social entrepreneurs and young entrepreneurs.
Be Transparent and Responsive: Bring humility to your grantmaking and recognise the power imbalances in your relationships with programme partners. Communicate your equity journey with your grantees. Be crystal clear about your priorities and expectations. Be swift to say no if it’s not a good fit, and respond in a timely manner. The urgency of our challenges requires no less of us all.
Simplify and Streamline Paperwork: Nonprofits spend too much time writing grant proposals and reports to satisfy funders’ requirements, while doing the difficult work of systems change and meeting regulatory conditions. Funders can help give time back by streamlining application processes, coordinating with other donors on due diligence and reporting, and aligning reporting with a systems change mindset. Reporting on systems change work is often more complex and nuanced than listing short-term outputs tied to individual projects. As additional methods of evaluating impact, funders can be more open to stories as examples of progress. They can ask grantees what shifts in the system they are seeing over time, and they can talk to grantees about what’s working in their efforts and what is not.
Offer Support Beyond the Check: Funders have more to offer than money alone. Be a connector. Make helpful connections for grantee partners to other possible funders and peer organisations, be curious and responsive to their needs, and create opportunities to showcase them and their work in channels to which you have access. Support networks that build strong connections and provide platforms for collaboration rather than competition.
Collaborate With Other Funders: Just as non-profits need to weave together networks to achieve scale, funders need to build ecosystems of investors in systems change work. Share knowledge, connections and expertise with other donors; enhance efficiencies through coordinated action; open doors for your grantees and walk through them together as partners. Connect with funders that are investing in similar areas and hold one another accountable for thinking broadly about your funding ecosystem and being intentional to include leaders and organisations that have historically and systemically had a hard time accessing funds from donors.
Embrace a Systems Mindset in Your Grantmaking: Funders should embrace a systems change mindset with their grantees to address their chosen priority problem(s). The overall goal is to meaningfully shift the conditions that hold the problem in place. This involves identifying, understanding, and addressing root causes of the problem(s) you are tackling. This mindset also extends to thinking differently about evaluating and understanding impact over a longer-term horizon.

Many funders can point to some of these principles where they are leading or making progress. However, partial progress, while worthwhile, won’t be enough if we are to respond to the urgency of the complex needs facing us. We call upon philanthropic sector leaders and different types of funders to commit to adopting all of these principles in meaningful ways within their organisations, so that our shared commitment and ability to achieve lasting social change is accelerated.

Specifically, we ask for funders to commit to the following concrete, practical steps to show your support for these principles:

Take the Funder Diagnostic on funding systems change, found here https://www.notion.so/Systems-Change-Funder-Self-Assessment-545c4fe1196f4fca8247d5060b055481. This is a comprehensive tool designed to support and inform the journey of shifting towards more systems change philanthropy. Develop concrete actions you will take based on the recommendations in the tool, work to improve your score over the next year or two, and commit to re-taking the Funder Diagnostic again to assess your progress.
Make shifts towards the key elements of funding systems change, such as increasing funding given to groups that use systems change approaches, increasing the percentage of your grants that provide unrestricted core support, and increasing the percentage of your grants that are multi-year funding commitments.
Revisit and streamline your grant-making processes. Identify at least one way that you can incorporate more perspectives or information from proximate leaders to help you shape your grant decisions.
Hold yourself accountable to these principles by inviting feedback from your grantees on a regular basis, either through an anonymous grantee survey that you develop, a Grantee Perception Report, a staff survey, or other feedback mechanisms that you create to invite input.

*Many of the principles in this letter are derived from three sources: Embracing Complexity, a collaborative report authored by Catalyst 2030, Ashoka, Co-Impact, Echoing Green, the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship, the Skoll Foundation, and McKinsey & Company that reflected the perspectives of many social entrepreneurs across the world; The Trust Based Philanthropy Project; and principles of Racial Equity-Based Philanthropy.

We look forward to working with you our shared journey to create lasting solutions to many of the biggest problems facing people and the planet today.

Signed by 1,191 organisations.

IDIS participates on report focused on the impacts of the pandemic on philanthropy

Publicado em 27 de maio de 2022 por mnegrao

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One of the chapters of the report is dedicated to pointing out how the pandemic impacted philanthropy in other countries, one of them Brazil. IDIS contributed with its expertise and point of view and the project Emergency Health Fund – Coronavirus Brazil created by IDIS, BSocial and Movimento Bem Maior in 2020 and which raised R$ 40.4 million to help hospitals in 25 Brazilian states against COVID, was highlighted as a case study.

Check out the main highlights of the report:

Candid and the Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP) released a new report, Philanthropy and COVID-19: Examining two years of giving, that details COVID-19-related philanthropic funding in 2021. Candid and CDP’s third assessment of COVID-19 philanthropic data notes a concerning decline in giving by large U.S. foundations even as communities face decades-long efforts to recover from the compounding effects of the pandemic. The new report highlights the need for more philanthropic support for long-term recovery, and CDP provides actionable steps funders can take to invigorate their COVID-19 giving strategy, including:

Increase support to marginalized communities.
Provide flexible funding to grantees.
Implement trust-based philanthropy.
Fund as locally and grassroots as possible.
Commit to transparency by sharing grants data with Candid.

In previous reports, CDP and Candid noted the record amount of disaster-related funding for the pandemic. The new report includes analysis of Candid’s coronavirus data set (as of December 15, 2021) to illuminate funding trends among U.S. foundations, corporations, and high-net-worth individuals. To date, Candid has recorded $1 billion for COVID-19 in 2021. Additional key findings from the report include:

18% of COVID-19 funding was explicitly designated as flexible funding or general support.
17% of funding was coded for policy, advocacy, and systems change.
Health, human service, and education organizations received the highest shares of funding.
U.S. donors allocated 22% of funding dollars to recipients based outside the United States.
For U.S.-focused domestic funding, 27% of dollars was explicitly designated for racial and ethnic identities. Of this, 71% didn’t indicate a specific identity, but instead, was broadly designated for “racial equity” or “communities of color.”

This report also examines data from Candid’s Foundation Giving Forecast Survey, which surveys large U.S. foundations about their grantmaking. This year’s survey asked respondents about their total grant payments in FYE 2020 and 2021 and also sought to find out how much of this funding was specifically for COVID-19-related support. Results show:

An 11% increase in overall grantmaking, but a 31% decline specifically for COVID-19-related funding in FYE 2021.
Corporate foundation funding for COVID-19 decreased by 76%; community foundations’ funding decreased by 43%; and funding by independent foundations decreased by 24%.
COVID-19 funding accounted for 7% of total giving in FYE 2021, compared to 12% in FYE 2020.

“Overall, surveyed funders did not maintain their COVID-19 support in the second year of the pandemic,” observes Grace Sato, director of research at Candid. “But defining COVID-19 support can be challenging. Since there isn’t a universal definition of COVID-19 funding, survey respondents used their own criteria to estimate how much of their grant payments were allocated for COVID-19. Many may not have considered increased general support or increased flexibility as part of their pandemic funding.”

Chart: Covid-19 support as share of total grant payments FYE 2020 vs 2021

To illustrate funding flows outside the U.S., country and regional experts described the philanthropic response in their localities. The report presents snapshots of COVID-19 funding in 11 countries, including case studies of how philanthropy responded to the crisis in India, Brazil, and Ukraine.

The report also provides information about CDP’s approach to disaster grantmaking. In 2021, CDP granted nearly $2.6 million in 2021 to address psychosocial health and wellbeing needs after disasters.

“We strongly believe that mental health is an area that will need ongoing funding to support global COVID-19 recovery,” said Regine A. Webster, vice president of CDP. “Our communities—especially communities of color—are going to feel the impacts of the pandemic for decades to come. We need to keep the momentum in ensuring that frontline organizations have the financial resources to address immediate needs and root causes to help all community members thrive.”

Philanthropy and COVID-19: Examining two years of giving is available here.

New research series details emerging trends in digital and other innovative charitable giving practices across the globe

Publicado em 23 de maio de 2022 por agoncalves

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Analyses of philanthropic activity in Brazil and the United Kingdom identify expanded donor expectations for transparency from charitable organizations and significant growth in digital giving

INDIANAPOLIS – Today the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IUPUI launched its new research series, Digital for Good: A Global Study on Emerging Ways of Giving. The series will chronicle findings and insights regarding emerging trends in charitable giving, with a focus on how innovative giving methods such as mobile giving, crowdfunding, online volunteering, social impact initiatives and others are shaping giving in various countries.

Click here to download the material.

The series, which builds on the school’s Global Philanthropy Environment Index and Global Philanthropy Tracker, will be released in phases over the next five months and feature profiles of eight diverse countries, beginning today with analyses of giving trends in the United Kingdom and case studies of non-traditional ways of giving in Brazil. Profiles of China, India, Kenya, Singapore, South Africa and South Korea will follow. For each country, the research team collaborated with in-country partner organizations or individual experts to identify specific trends, shape data collection, and develop report findings. The study series is based on research funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

“Expanding on our global philanthropy research by introducing these studies allows us to better understand philanthropy’s ever-evolving trends and to examine them in countries with varied philanthropic landscapes,” said Una Osili, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Research and International Programs at the school. “By identifying and understanding emerging ways in which people are giving, we can equip leaders of charitable organizations to better secure, shape and deliver much-needed aid and relief.”

The first two country profiles examine philanthropic engagement in Brazil and the United Kingdom prior to and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Both countries report an expansion of various types of channels for donations, while researchers noted the necessity of new, technology-based ways of giving for philanthropy’s continued growth in each geographic area.

Both country profiles focus on emerging and expanding ways of giving: online giving and crowdfunding in the United Kingdom, and charity rounding up, crowdfunding, and social impact publishing in Brazil. Social impact publishing involves the production of inspiring, revenue-producing editorial content in which a portion of the revenue generated is given to nonprofit organizations.

Key findings in the Brazil profile feature analysis of three relevant case studies and include:

These include donating through rounding-up for a charity at checkout, crowdfunding, and social impact publishing, practices which all encourage smaller, more frequent donations that accommodate charitable contributions on modest household budgets. From 2013 to 2020, donations collected through rounding-up for charity via Arredondar increased exponentially from just BRL 1,091 in 2013 (equivalent to USD 590 in 2021, adjusted for inflation) to more than BRL 1.6 million in 2020 (equivalent to USD 330,186 in 2021, adjusted for inflation). The social impact publishing house Editora MOL also experienced growth on the donations made through its editorial products: nearly one-sixth of all donations it received since 2008 were made during 2021. And in 2020 alone, the use of the giving platform BSocial skyrocketed from 600 registered donors to about 15,000, resulting in a four-fold increase in charitable contributions.

“The three initiatives shared in this report highlight innovative ways that people are engaging in philanthropy in Brazil over recent years. Interestingly, these models are not digitally based; they evolved with no digital component, but digital will now contribute to their growth and expansion, and we hope they will inspire more ideas to promote philanthropy,” said Luisa Lima, Communications Manager at IDIS, the Institute for the Development of Social Investment, the Brazilian organization that conducted this research.

The most successful initiatives prioritize transparency and accountability in giving. In Brazil, as in many countries, charitable organizations face distrust or skepticism from donors about the use and impact of their donation. New giving initiatives that emphasize transparency and accountability can create more comfort for all donors with the nonprofit sector overall and can invite everyday donors to actively participate in a more inclusive civil sector.

“Transparency and accountability are crucial to the development of philanthropy in Brazil,” Lima added. “Although Brazilians are empathetic and supportive, there is an underlying attitude of distrust toward institutions that receive donations. Transparency is central to shifting these attitudes and building renewed trust within the philanthropic environment.”

Key findings in the United Kingdom profile feature results of an online survey of nearly 3,000 individuals and include:

Online giving has increased, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The proportion of donors giving via cash declined significantly during the United Kingdom’s first lockdown in March and April of 2020 and remained at levels much lower than usual even after many restrictions were lifted. Simultaneously, online giving showed a significant increase during the pandemic. On average, donors interviewed between May and July 2021 reported that 60% of their gifts in the past 12 months had been made online. Donations through a third-party app proved to be the most common way to donate online, with over half of respondents who donated online in the past 12 months noting that they had made gifts through applications like JustGiving or Virgin Money Giving.

A quarter of people gave via crowdfunding in the past 12 months. The most common reason to support a fundraising request via crowdfunding was to contribute to charity (30%). Findings suggest that 23% of people gave to crowdfunding ventures established for or by a friend or family member or those set up by a friend of a friend or an acquaintance, while less than 17% contributed to a crowdfunding effort established by someone they did not know. Notably, while a substantial portion (33%) of donors who gave via crowdfunding or social media sites said that they responded to requests posted by a friend, family member, or acquaintance, very few donors (4%) indicated being motivated to give by a social media “influencer.”

Online and offline solicitations often reinforce each other, making hybrid ways of giving the new normal in charitable giving. Researchers found that 63% of people who used social media to request donations also made requests in person.

“For the UK, the future for fundraising looks digital, but with a strong human element,” said Alison Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of Charity Services at the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), which conducted the United Kingdom research. “Though donations may be conducted online, requests for support are often made by a friend or family member in person or via social media.”

This phenomenon highlights the continued importance of interpersonal connection when engaging would-be donors.

“The results of the first two country profiles suggest an evolution in giving practices and highlight a significant expansion of digital giving practices and peer-to-peer giving,” said Amir Pasic, Ph.D., the Eugene R. Tempel Dean of the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. “While these findings are the first in a series, the documented growth in digital giving and shifting donor expectations in the UK and in Brazil reinforce existing evidence that digital practices can help democratize the practice of philanthropy. Digital innovation makes philanthropy accessible and fosters greater transparency and accountability for how gifts lead to impact.”

About the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy

The Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IUPUI is dedicated to improving philanthropy to improve the world by training and empowering students and professionals to be innovators and leaders who create positive and lasting change. The school offers a comprehensive approach to philanthropy through its undergraduate, graduate, certificate and professional development programs, its research and international programs and through The Fund Raising School, Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, the Mays Family Institute on Diverse Philanthropy and the Women’s Philanthropy Institute. Follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, or Instagram and “Like” us on Facebook.

About Charities Aid Foundation (CAF)

Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) is a leading charity and bank seeking to connect vital organizations, institutions and individuals working to ensure everyone has a stake in the future. We exist to accelerate progress in society towards a fair and sustainable future for all. For over 95 years, we’ve acted as a meeting point for companies, private philanthropists, fellow foundations, governments, charities, and not-for-profit enterprises. Our independence, expertise and international reach enable hundreds of millions of pounds each year to move across sectors and borders and arrive safely with thousands of charities to make a greater impact. We also lead an international network of like-minded charitable organizations. We collaborate to inspire innovation, share best practices, and improve cross-border giving in support of civil society.

About IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment

IDIS – Institute for Development of Social Investment is a civil society organization founded in 1999 and pioneer in technical support to social investors in Brazil. With the mission to inspire, support and promote strategic philanthropy and its impact, IDIS serves individuals, families, companies, corporate and family run institutes and foundations, as well as with civil society organizations, in actions that transform realities and contribute for the reduction of social inequality in the country. Our actions are based on the tripod of generating knowledge, offering advisory and developing social impact projects that contribute to the strengthening of the ecosystem of strategic philanthropy and of giving culture. We value partnerships and co-creating, and believe in the power of connection, of joint learning, of diversity and plurality of points of view.

Perspectives for Brazilian philanthropy in 2022

Publicado em 9 de março de 2022 por mnegrao

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Societies are more complex. Problems to be faced too.

In the 19^th century, one of the great names of philanthropy, the entrepreneur Andrew Carnegie, said it was easier to make a fortune than to give money away wisely. More than a century separates us from that statement, and since then societies have become more complex, as have their problems. And the challenge faced by philanthropists, who want to generate the greatest possible impact with their donations, has grown considerably, after two years of the pandemic and its consequent economic and social crisis.

Thinking about the decisions which Brazilian philanthropists will face in 2022 that IDIS prepared this article, bringing some perspectives we see in our daily work, both in Brazil and abroad. Perspectives work like windows opening onto different landscapes, and in each one something different is happening that can influence the way the private social investor understands the context in which he/she is inserted, the various possibilities within his/her reach, and the effects of his/her resolutions.

It should be clear that IDIS have never intended to draw a complete picture of reality and of what should be considered by a philanthropist when reflecting on how he or she intends to make donations. But we do have the intention of enriching this moment and, somehow, contributing so that the social investor has more elements to collaborate with in order for his/her decision to be the best for him/her, the best for the beneficiaries, and the best for Brazil.

Check out: Perspectives for Brazilian philanthropy 2022

Study highlights leading companies in corporate giving in Brazil and worldwide in 2020

Publicado em 25 de fevereiro de 2022 por agoncalves

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Unprecedented research carried out by IDIS points out the organizations that allocated the most resources to social initiatives on the first year of the pandemic

IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment, as a request from Itaú Unibanco, accomplished a survey on social investment carried out with companies around the world. The Corporate Giving Ranking reveals which are the 10 Brazilian and 10 international companies that contributed the most to socio-environmental actions, through donations and sponsorships, on 2020, first year of the pandemic.

In Brazil, the best-placed company is Itaú Unibanco, with a total invested amount of USD 350 million. The bank also stood out in the global ranking, classified in 8th, only behind US giants companies and a large Chinese organization. In the international ranking, the highlight was Microsoft, with USD 2.3 billion invested. Check out the rankings below:

Brazilian Corporate Giving Ranking in 2020

COMPANY	VALUE OF DONATIONS (USD)	NET PROFIT (USD)	DONATIONS/NET PROFIT
# 1 Itaú	350.007.709	2.903.064.174	12,1%
#2 Vale	213.534.615	4.496.146.153	4,7%
#3 Bradesco	182.219.230	3.741.923.076	4,9%
#4 Cogna Educação	62.855.769	-1.116.499.615	n/a
#5 JBS	60.788.461	884.288.461	6,9%
#6 Rede D’Or	43.096.538	88.350.576	48,8%
#7 Banco do Brasil	39.625.000	2.670.000.000	1,5%
#8 Claro	29.532.692	668.435.192	4,4%
#9 Ambev	28.847.746	2.327.750.000	1,2%
#10 Petrobras	27.990.961	1.201.153.846	2,3%
TOTAL	1.038.498.721	–	–

Font: IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment

International Corporate Giving Ranking in 2020

COMPANY	VALUE OF DONATIONS (USD)	NET PROFIT (USD)	DONATIONS/NET PROFIT
#1 Microsoft	2.328.500.000	44.281.000.000	5,3%
#2 Salesforce	1.531.000.000	126.000.000	1.215%
#3 Walmart	1.443.000.000	15.201.000.000	9,5%
#4 Google	1.112.000.000	40.269.000.000	2,8%
#5 Wells Fargo	511.412.000	3.301.000.000	15,5%
#6 Cisco Systems	511.000.000	11.214.000.000	4,6%
#7 ByteDance	425.000.000	(45.000.000.000)	n/a
#8 Itaú	350.007.709	2.903.064.174	12,1%
#9 Tencent	330.061.350	23.176.645.161	1,4%
#10 Mastercard	257.168.000	6.411.000.000	4,0%
TOTAL	8.799.149.059	–	–

Font: IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment

The criteria for positioning the companies took into account the financial volume of donations and the percentage that this value represents in the net profit of each corporation. In addition to financial donations in cash, the ranking considers donations of products and services, sponsorships carried out through incentive laws (in the national case), donations reported together with other companies (provided that the value of each one is specified), and the portion referring to the contributions of the sponsoring company by income from the equity funds to the Business Institutes and Foundations.

In addition to the quantitative assessment, IDIS considered in the study the strategic alignment of the actions with the company’s business and also whether the amount made available to combat the pandemic was only on an emergency basis or if there was a history and forecast of maintenance of the contributions of resources.

All values used in the research were obtained from public sources of information related to philanthropy. They are: Giving USA 2021, CANDID-Philanthropy and Covid-19 Measuring One Year of Giving, Foundation Maps – Philanthropy’s response to coronavirus, Foundation Directory Online, Investor Relations Reports, ABCR Giving Monitor, GIFE, Tax Incentive Laws and Integrated Annual Reports – Sustainability, Corporate Responsibility and ESG.

This Corporate Giving Ranking complements the recently released findings of the GIFE Census and BISC Report. The studies, which include a considerable part of the most important companies in the country, estimate a volume of USD 1.3 billion related to private social investment in 2020. Considering methodological and sample differences, the total investment of the 10 companies that make up the ranking by IDIS is USD 1 billion, showing a high concentration of investments in a few companies.

“Data is essential to guide our action. It is clear that corporate social investment is still very concentrated and that it is necessary to engage more and more organizations. This is a journey that begins with the understanding that companies are part of the solution to our socio-environmental challenges and continues through a long-term commitment to transformation. Another important point to consider will be the behavior of these companies in the coming years, how much the increase seen in 2020 will influence their corporate social investment strategies and policies, as well as the effect on the sector in general”, comments Renato Rebelo, IDIS Consulting unit director.

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IDIS is among the first organizations in the world certified by CAF America

Publicado em 15 de janeiro de 2022 por luisal

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The digital credential is an initiative of the North American representative of the Charities Aid Foundation; the objective is to validate CSOs around the world to receive US investments

Since 2005, IDIS – Institute for the Development of Social Investment is the representative in Brazil of the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), a British organization dedicated to philanthropy and with over 90 years of experience. CAF supports donors – individuals, large donors and companies – to achieve the greatest possible impact from their donations.

In December 2021, IDIS received from CAF America, one of the partner offices of the CAF International network, an unprecedented digital badge, which recognizes its suitability and exemplary work carried out in Brazil. The certification provides US investors with the assurance that we are a solid civil society organization that has been assessed against the risk of fraud, money laundering or other illicit activities.

With the objective of increasing the number of internationally validated organizations, CAF America will count on the involvement of local partners. With extensive experience in this type of validation of CSOs in Brazil, IDIS, from its office in São Paulo, will be involved in this process as a validating agent, also serving CAF’s international clients operating in the region and offering global services to social investors. Brazilian private companies.

To learn more, click here.