The Evolution of Giving – What Do the Trends Tell Us?
Each year, Lund Development Solutions develops an annual giving presentation for clients highlighting key findings from the previous year in philanthropy and how it evolved. Obviously, these past few years have been unprecedented in terms of predictability and yet trends did not skew as much as you might think.
The Shift to Impact Giving
Over the past two decades, large-scale philanthropy morphed from primarily socialite and altruistic giving to something grander, more about impact. Mega-donors from the tech world and innovative industries were interested in moving the needle on education, literacy, and world health initiatives. Impact giving was born and individuals like Mackenzie Scott (former wife of Jeff Bezos) began donating huge amounts with fewer restrictions. The world was on pace to experience big, bold and courageous initiatives.
Philanthropy Through A Pandemic
But then the pandemic hit and our fundamental needs shifted. Access to health care, civil unrest and social issues regarding race and equity came to the forefront.
The primary finding from the data – a worldwide crisis did NOT stop philanthropy, it re-charged it. Data from giving in 2020 indicate that philanthropy continued to grow and break records. Giving in 2020 hit $471.44 billion, an increase of 5.1% over 2019[1].
What’s Next?
This year also looks strong, but where are we headed? We can share these insights as well as other key findings in a customized presentation just for you. Click here to see our flyer and learn more about what’s coming in philanthropy in 2021.
[1] According to GivingUSA