Irish philanthropy mapped in new sector report

A new report from Philanthropy Ireland has mapped the structure of Ireland’s philanthropic sector, highlighting the relationships, institutions and support systems that underpin charitable giving across the country.

The Irish Philanthropy Ecosystem report examines how private capital is mobilised for social good, identifying the funders, advisers, technology providers and infrastructure organisations that shape philanthropy in Ireland.

Philanthropy is seen as most effective when viewed as an interconnected ecosystem rather than a collection of isolated grants or individual acts of giving.

The report outlines the role of primary and secondary actors within the sector, including foundations, individual donors, corporate contributors, government bodies and support organisations.

It identifies technology providers as a critical part of the ecosystem, recognising their role in improving transparency, efficiency and impact measurement across the sector. SmartyGrants UK, a partner of Philanthropy Ireland, is a growing force in this space across the UK and Ireland.

Digital platforms are seen as increasingly important in enabling donor tracking, impact measurement and data analysis, while supporting more streamlined grant management processes.

The report identifies several opportunities to further strengthen the sector, including:

• developing shared measurement and learning frameworks
• encouraging pooled funding approaches
• strengthening place-based collaboration
• improving transparency and discoverability of funding opportunities
• supporting donors and institutions as they develop their philanthropic activity.

Philanthropy Ireland says the findings position the sector as a developing, values-led ecosystem with the potential to deliver greater long-term social impact through stronger collaboration and connectivity.