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A Shared Future: Policy, Purpose, and the Road Ahead for Irish Philanthropy

1 May 2025

Welcome to the latest edition of Philanthropy Ireland magazine.


This issue comes at a pivotal moment for our sector. The pressures on philanthropy have never been greater. Communities are facing complex, urgent challenges—and the need for strategic, long-term giving is growing fast. Now, more than ever, we must step back, look at the bigger picture, and ask: how can we work better together to strengthen philanthropy in Ireland?


That’s the spirit guiding our work at Philanthropy Ireland as we continue to support the implementation of the National Philanthropy Policy. Across the working groups, momentum is building.


  • A Communications and Awareness Raising Strategy is nearing final stages of completion for sign off by the Department of Rural and Community Development and commencement of actions for implementation.

  • Research mapping public–private partnerships to inform the development of frameworks for effective co-operation is nearing completion, laying the groundwork for advancing collaborations between government and philanthropy.

  • The Stimulating and Incentivising Giving Group has engaged positively with key public policy stakeholders in the fiscal space. A key takeaway is the need for a clear definition of what constitutes a “philanthropic organisation”—a critical step for shaping better fiscal supports.

  • Meanwhile, the Data and Research Group is exploring ways to improve how data on philanthropy is disclosed and understood. Regulation and compliance continue to be core priorities, with ongoing collaboration with regulatory stakeholders to strengthen transparency and trust in giving practices.


This magazine is a reflection of the broad and growing ecosystem we serve. The articles and interviews here are for everyone in this space—not only donors and philanthropists, but also philanthropy advisers, wealth managers, policy makers, nonprofit leaders, grantees and grantmaking staff. No matter your role, the future of Irish philanthropy needs you.


That’s why we’re excited to introduce our new strategic resource: A Roadmap for the Future of Irish Philanthropy. It lays out a bold, collaborative vision for what philanthropy can become. But a roadmap only works if we walk it together.


So, I invite you—challenge you—to reflect on your part in this community. Collectively we are more. How can you use your position, your perspective, your influence, or your voice to support the growth of philanthropy in Ireland?


Let’s build this future—together.


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