Innovation in Asian Philanthropy:Entrepreneurial Social Finance in Asia: Working Paper No. 2

Report
April 2013
Asia Centre for Social Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy, National University of Singapore
Fondation Lombard Odier
"Inspired by the philanthropic engagements of previous generations, and nourished by our personal experience as funders - and as private bankers, accompanying our clients in their own giving journey - we are deeply convinced of the value of social commitments. Philanthropy comes in many forms and shapes. Donors are free to direct their attention to the social issues that most concern them in the ways they deem best suited. This freedom allows for experimenting and risk-taking. In our view, philanthropy doesn’t just have the latitude to innovate, it has a duty to do so, in order to adapt to the evolving needs in society and find the most efficient ways to deliver social impact.
 
By commissioning this study by the Asia Centre for Social Entrepreneurship & Philanthropy of the National University of Singapore, the ambition of Fondation Lombard Odier is to contribute to a better understanding of the dynamics at play in Asia. It follows suit to a study published in 2010, Advancing Philanthropy in Switzerland, our home country, which taught us the need for a visible and dynamic philanthropic sector. Despite a regrettable dearth of reliable data,
 
Dr Robert John and his team have been able, through interviews with funders, social investors and heads of philanthropic institutions, active from India to Japan, to depict a continent animated by a profound quest for social value creation. We hope it will inspire donors and impact investors all around the world to dare engage, creatively and innovatively, to the benefit of society."
 
Thierry Lombard, President, Fondation Lombard Odier     
 
Karin Jestin, Secretary General, Fondation Lombard Odier
 
                          
 
 

 

This report is tagged under:

  • Promoting philanthropy
  • Understanding philanthropy