This article is developed based on my participation in a conference in Paris in March 2025, followed by a webinar, organized by Altrata and Chapel & York. The data are sourced from Altrata’s study and reports.
The landscape of philanthropy is undergoing a profound transformation, with international fundraising emerging as a critical strategy for non-profit organizations seeking to expand their global impact. In 2022, a landmark moment occurred when ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) donated an impressive $190 billion to philanthropic causes, representing a remarkable 25% increase from 2018. This surge reflects a global philanthropic trend that presents both exciting opportunities and unique challenges for organizations looking to attract donors beyond traditional boundaries.
1- The Global Philanthropic Ecosystem: Understanding the Landscape
The current philanthropic map reveals a complex and dynamic ecosystem. North America continues to dominate the philanthropic landscape, representing 48% of global UHNWI donations. Europe follows with $62 billion in contributions, while Asia contributes $24 billion. However, the future of philanthropy is set to undergo a significant transformation.
By 2033, an estimated $31 trillion will transfer to a new generation of donors characterized by distinct attributes:
- Digital connectivity
- Global mobility
- Deep commitment to impact-driven initiatives
Philanthropic priorities vary significantly across regions:
- Education leads globally, with particular prominence in Asia
- Health and medical research rank high in European and Asian contexts
- North America shows a stronger preference for arts and culture
A striking statistic underscores the global nature of modern philanthropy: 60% of UHNW philanthropists now contribute to causes outside their country of residence.
2- Strategies for Identifying and Engaging International Donors
Identifying potential international donors requires a sophisticated and nuanced approach. Success depends on a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond traditional fundraising methods. Organizations must develop a multi-faceted approach to prospect identification and engagement.
Key methods for network expansion include:
- Leveraging board members’ international connections
- Developing a carefully cultivated Circle of Ambassadors
- Collaborating with local NGOs in target countries
- Utilizing embassy networks
- Engaging current donors for strategic recommendations
Prospect qualification demands meticulous attention to detail:
- Invest significant time in thorough research
- Implement a robust CRM system
- Identify the most appropriate contacts within target organizations
- Deeply understand political priorities and focus areas
- Verify local funding requirements and regulations
A critical insight emerges from research: donors are five times more likely to contribute when approached through a trusted contact, highlighting the paramount importance of strategic networking.
3- Engagement Strategies: Beyond Traditional Outreach
Successful international fundraising transcends conventional outreach methods. Thought leadership has become the cornerstone of effective donor engagement. Organizations must approach international fundraising as a delicate and strategic courtship, prioritizing relationship-building over immediate financial asks.
Key engagement tactics include:
- Developing sophisticated cold contacting strategies
- Implementing strategic network mapping
- Leveraging ambassadors and board members
- Creating carefully crafted strategic introductions
4- Crafting Compelling Narratives for International Donors
The art of international fundraising hinges on an organization’s ability to communicate its unique value proposition. Cultural intelligence becomes paramount, with communication strategies requiring careful adaptation. For example, Switzerland favors discrete, understated communication, when the United States responds to direct, marketing-oriented approaches.
Critical narrative components should focus on:
- Articulating a clear and unique added value
- Demonstrating differentiation from local organizations
- Providing transparent and measurable impact assessments
- Creating culturally sensitive and compelling design
A revealing statistic underscores the importance of this approach: 85% of next-generation donors prioritize organizations that can demonstrate clear, measurable results.
Conclusion
International fundraising has transformed from an optional strategy to an essential approach for some non-profit organizations seeking sustainable growth. Success requires a sophisticated blend of:
- Strategic networking
- Cultural intelligence
- Compelling storytelling
- Demonstrable impact
By deeply understanding the global philanthropic ecosystem, leveraging extensive networks, and crafting narratives that resonate across cultural boundaries, organizations can unlock unprecedented opportunities for funding and meaningful impact.
The future of philanthropy is global, collaborative, and driven by a genuine desire to create substantive change.
⚠️ But, be careful, international fundraising is not relevant for all organizations. It involves a significant amount of time, resources, staff and strategic thinking. If you are already struggling in raising funds locally, I highly recommend not to engage in international fundraising.
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