As we step into 2025, the Irish philanthropy landscape continues to go from strength to strength, driven by technological innovation, increasing Government support, collaborative approaches, and evolving societal challenges. At Philanthropy Ireland, we have identified key trends shaping this dynamic space, offering both opportunities and challenges for donors, philanthropy organisations, nonprofits, and stakeholders. This article provides an in-depth exploration of these trends and their implications for our members and the broader philanthropy community.
1. Technology in Philanthropy
Technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), is reshaping philanthropy. While AI holds immense potential—streamlining operations, enhancing decision-making, and breaking barriers—it also raises ethical concerns. Discussions about bias, data privacy, and the risk of automation dominating every stage of grant-making highlight the need for human oversight. While there are only a few examples where the Irish philanthropy space has started utilising AI in earnest, grant makers are becoming concerned about the rise in AI generated grant applications, policies and procedures for their internal processes and the fear of being left behind when every second philanthropy article seems to mention AI!
Philanthropy Ireland is committed to fostering informed conversations on these issues. In 2025, we aim to provide members with resources, international research, and practical examples of AI's application in philanthropy. An updated session on AI’s risks and benefits will also offer insights into how funders can use technology responsibly while preserving the human connection central to philanthropy.
2. Collaborative Approaches for Greater Impact
Collaboration is becoming a cornerstone of effective philanthropy. Funders are pooling resources, sharing grantee information, and co-creating impact stories to maximise their reach. This trend was evident at our recent Philanthropy Symposium, where the "Collaborate" session showcased innovative ways funders can work together. Collaboration also emerges as a top theme in many conversations with our members when discussing ways that Philanthropy Ireland can support the sector.
At the end of January, we will host a "Futures Philanthropy" workshop to deepen collaborative practices among members, in collaboration (trying to practice what we preach!) with the Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies. Through our Membership Hub, we will continue to explore opportunities for funders to align their efforts and achieve collective goals, ensuring Irish philanthropy remains a model of shared responsibility and innovation.
3. Integrating ESG Goals with Philanthropy
Corporate philanthropy is increasingly linked to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals. Businesses are embedding philanthropic initiatives into their operations, reflecting a broader commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. However, meaningful alignment and transparent reporting remain challenges, especially as many companies based in the EU look to how they can track the ‘S’ in accordance with new reporting standards.
To support corporate philanthropy, Philanthropy Ireland will launch a Corporate Network in March 2025, creating a space for companies to exchange best practices and inspire one another. By championing corporate contributions, we aim to elevate the visibility and impact of corporate philanthropy in Ireland. If you are a company who is looking to start or who is already donating to nonprofits you can subscribe to our Corporate Newsletter here to keep up to date on the launch of our Corporate Network and other news and insights on corporate philanthropy.
4. Prioritising Respectful Partnerships
An increasing number of funders are shifting toward long-term, trust-based relationships with grantees, recognising the operational strains nonprofits face, such as staff burnout, rising costs, and growing service demands. This movement emphasises holistic support over programmatic funding, fostering sustainability and mutual respect. As many funders navigate the journey to move from reactive to proactive grant making and embracing a trust based, relational approach it is important that both sides of the grant making and grant receiving relationship remain open, honest and transparent to foster long term philanthropic relationships that match the goals of both sides.
Philanthropy Ireland will support this approach by conducting research into operational challenges faced by Irish charities. Our findings will help members identify where their funding can make the most impact, empowering grantees to thrive. We will also continue to support grant makers by providing best practice information and exploratory knowledge exchange through our philanthropy in practice events. Our full events calendar can be found here.
5. Innovative Funding Models
Blended funding models, combining grants, loans, impact investing, and social finance, are gaining traction. These models allow funders to create scalable and sustainable solutions, addressing complex societal challenges.
Our Impact Exhibition at the Philanthropy Symposium highlighted examples of these models, showcasing their potential. In 2025, we will continue to expand this initiative, providing members with real-world case studies and actionable insights to inspire their funding strategies and provide opportunities to hear from funders who have already engaged in this work and the learnings they gleaned.
6. The Rise of New Philanthropic Leaders
A new generation of leaders are emerging in Irish philanthropy, from next-generation family philanthropists and new foundations launching to new leadership in corporate and intermediary organisations. These leaders bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the sector and showcase the growth in philanthropy becoming a realistic career path.
As new leaders, trustees and philanthropy sector staff emerge into the space Philanthropy Ireland remains committed to supporting these changemakers through networking opportunities, best practice sharing, and educational resources. By nurturing new talent, we can ensure a vibrant and forward-thinking philanthropic ecosystem.
7. Shifting Focus Areas
Spurred on by the cost-of-living and housing crises some facets of Irish philanthropy are returning to core crisis issues centred around poverty and disadvantage. There was an upsurge in support to food banks and charities during Christmas 2024 to meet record breaking demand for frontline services. The Irish philanthropy sector is also responding to these needs. Simultaneously, there is growing interest in place-based giving and incorporating a climate justice and equity lens to grant making. Grant making is a serious responsibility, one that all our members recognise and
Through our funder networks, Philanthropy Ireland encourages collaboration in addressing these critical areas. In 2025, we will update our Philanthropy Map and publish an insights report to highlight funding trends and priorities, helping members align their efforts with pressing societal needs.
8. Addressing Power Dynamics
Globally, discussions around equity, democracy and power structures in philanthropy are intensifying. While Ireland’s philanthropic sector is relatively young, concepts like community-led decision-making and democratised grant-making are gaining traction.
Philanthropy Ireland seeks to facilitate safe, open dialogues on these topics. By addressing power imbalances and promoting participatory approaches, we can help members reimagine grant-making practices that prioritise equity and accountability. Similarly, our ongoing working with the Department of Rural and Community Development on the implementation of the National Philanthropy Policy provides opportunities for input, collaboration and transparency within the philanthropy sector.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The trends shaping Irish philanthropy in 2025 offer opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and activate meaningful impact.
Philanthropy Ireland is here to support our dynamic philanthropy membership and the wider philanthropy community, providing resources, events, and insights tailored to your needs. Together, we can strengthen the philanthropic sector and create a brighter future for Ireland and beyond.
Let us know how we can assist you in navigating these trends and join us at upcoming events to share your experiences and insights. The future of Irish philanthropy depends on our collective vision, action, and commitment.
Find out more about the trends that are growing in the philanthropy space from The Chronicle of Philanthropy
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