Unlocking Philanthropy – and Strengthening the Ecosystem Behind It
In the 23 years since OKC was founded, philanthropy in Ireland has evolved significantly. OKC’s Director Mary O’Kennedy had the privilege of helping to establish the Government's Forum of Philanthropy & Fundraising back in 2011, and it’s extraordinary to see how things have changed since then. What was once a quiet, behind-the-scenes activity has become a more open, strategic, and values-driven force for social change. Today, high-impact donors seek genuine partnerships, clear evidence of impact and alignment with their personal or business values.
While large-scale philanthropy in Ireland is still relatively young in comparison to other regions, momentum is growing - and this momentum is supported by the National Philanthropy Policy, the first of its kind in Europe, and organisations such as Philanthropy Ireland, The Community Foundation, Rethink Ireland and The Ireland Funds, alongside an ever growing number of private and corporate foundations.
Why a Thriving Philanthropic Culture Matters
A vibrant national culture of philanthropy doesn’t happen overnight or by chance. It requires strong networks, trusted data, expert advisors and space for honest, open dialogue. This is why the opening plenary at this year’s Philanthropy Ireland Symposium - Unlocking Philanthropy: Insights from the Sector - is so timely.
OKC is delighted to be partnering with Philanthropy Ireland on this plenary, which will share key findings from their Future of Irish Philanthropy report, the Philanthropy Ireland Map and their Membership Survey. These give us a unique snapshot of who is giving, how and why, as well as where the opportunities and challenges lie. A panel of philanthropy experts will bring their own reflections, followed by an open Q&A that invites every voice in the room to be part of shaping the future ambition and impact.
Supporting Philanthropy in Action
At OKC, we understand the importance of bringing the philanthropic community together. Our daily work with both funders and the organisations they support gives us a clear view of how essential good data and open conversations are for the sector’s growth. We also recognise that sustaining this requires ongoing commitment and resources - which is why supporting the wider philanthropic ecosystem is central to what we do. Our involvement in this year’s Philanthropy Ireland Symposium reflects our belief in the power of shared learning and open dialogue to unlock philanthropy’s full potential - creating stronger, more sustainable giving for everyone involved.
As a values-led, impact-driven business, we’re dedicated not only to helping our clients maximise their philanthropic impact but also to encouraging individuals and companies to consider the difference they can make. To put this into practice, we created the OKC Philanthropic Fund, managed by Community Foundation Ireland. This Fund invests in initiatives that strengthen philanthropy in Ireland – from improving transparency and data access to building capacity and philanthropic infrastructure.
Partnerships That Build Capacity
Giving back is at the heart of how OKC operates. As well as investing through the OKC Philanthropy Fund, we match our employees’ charitable donations to amplify the causes they care about and support sector organisations to ensure philanthropy has the resources and spaces it needs to thrive. We’re also proud to support Charities Institute Ireland. As a strategic partner, with our sister company CCI Executive Search, OKC is committed to helping build capacity, share knowledge and support the ongoing development of the sector.
Championing opportunities to celebrate the role that creativity and the arts play in Irish society is also hugely important to us. Our support for this year’s Business to Arts Awards through their Curtain Raisers Circle reflects this commitment, helping to make possible this national celebration of creative partnerships and aligning with our longstanding support of Ireland’s arts and cultural sector.
Investing in the Foundations for Lasting Change
Ultimately, the ability of the philanthropic sector to create lasting social change depends on the infrastructure behind it – from data and research to sectoral capacity building, to networks and forums like the Philanthropy Ireland Symposium. By investing in these foundations, we can all contribute to delivering better outcomes for communities across Ireland.
Shaping the Future of Irish Philanthropy
The Philanthropy Ireland Symposium, taking place in October, will offer a richer understanding of where Irish philanthropy stands today and where it could go next. It provides a space for donors, advisers, intermediaries, policy makers, consultants and providers to engage with critical ideas shaping the sector. We’re proud to support these important conversations and to stand alongside others working to make philanthropy informed, collaborative, and impactful. The insights shared and connections made at the Symposium will help shape not just the future of philanthropy, but the difference we can achieve together.
We also look forward to seeing many of you at the Business to Arts Awards on September 8th, and we’re excited to share details soon of a special co-created corporate partnership event with Charities Institute Ireland taking place later this year.
From Vision to Action
At OKC, we are committed to encouraging other businesses to create meaningful partnerships that drive social impact. We specialise in creating strategic, high-impact partnerships between companies and the causes they care about – connecting you with the right organisations, designing initiatives that reflect your values and ensuring your investment delivers lasting results. If you’re ready to explore what your business could achieve in partnership with charities and social enterprises, we’d be delighted to talk to you.
OKC are committed to providing ethical and values-led consultancy and are proud members of EUConsult, the European association of consultants to and about the NFP sector. All members adhere to a strict Code of Ethics, ensuring high professional and transparent standards for clients.