Why this survey

Philanthropy today stands at a crossroads. Long-term thinking, bold ideas, and cross-sector collaboration are needed to unlock transformative change. Governance plays a crucial role: how boards make decisions, set priorities, and balance risks directly shapes philanthropy’s ability to serve the common good.

A 2023 Philea survey (EXPLORING 21st Century Philanthropy) found that conservative boards were perceived as one of the most significant internal risks philanthropy might face in the next decade. Building on that insight, this survey examines how foundations are governed today, what factors enable or hinder effective governance, and what examples of change we can learn from.

How results will be used this survey

The anonymised findings will:
  • Be published in an open-source report,
  • Be shared at events such as EuroPhilantopics and the Philea Forum,
  • Feed into Philea’s policy work to improve the enabling environment for philanthropy.
Participants will:
  • Receive a copy of the full anonymised survey results,
  • Be invited to a discussion of the findings.
  • Nothing will be published in your name or your organisation’s name without your consent.
Survey structure

The survey has five short parts. Progress is tracked as you go. We encourage thoughtful, qualitative answers where possible.
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