Agenda

Leadership, Learnings and Legacy

Philanthropy Symposium 26

It’s been a decade! Celebrating its tenth year, the Philanthropy Ireland Symposium 2026 will bring together philanthropists, foundations, professional advisers, policymakers and thought leaders to explore the continued development of strategic philanthropy in Ireland. Through new research, practical experience and forward-looking conversations, the day will consider three connected themes: the leadership philanthropy can show, the learning that can strengthen practice, and the legacy we want to build for future generations.

9.30–9.45 | Arrival, Registration and Networking

Tea, coffee and an opportunity to meet fellow attendees, renew relationships and make new connections.

9.45–9.55 | Opening Address: 10 Years of the Philanthropy Ireland Symposium

Marking ten years of conversation, connection and progress in Irish philanthropy

A welcome from Philanthropy Ireland reflecting on the journey of the Symposium and how philanthropy in Ireland has evolved over the past decade. This opening will set the scene for a day focused on Leadership, Learning and Legacy and the role we can each play in shaping what comes next.

Speaker: Éilis Murray, Philanthropy Ireland

9.55–10.25 | The Philanthropy Landscape in Ireland

A look at where philanthropy in Ireland stands today and the trends shaping its future

This evidence-led session will share the latest research on giving in Ireland, exploring emerging trends, attitudes to philanthropy, policy developments and the contribution being made by the philanthropic community. It will provide a shared understanding of the landscape and the opportunities for growing philanthropy in the years ahead.

Speakers: Hazel Hennessy, Philanthropy Ireland and Michael McLoughlin, Amárach

10.25–11.15 | Exploring Leadership in Philanthropy

An interactive exploration of how our individual leadership styles influence how we work and lead

Using the Caplor House model, participants will reflect on their own leadership preferences, behaviours and strengths. The session will explore how greater self-awareness can influence relationships, decision-making and the way we approach leadership within philanthropy.

Speaker: Ian Williams, Caplor Horizons

11.15–11.45 | Morning Break

Time to connect, reflect and continue the conversation

Tea, coffee and networking with fellow attendees.

11.45–12.30 | Family Leadership, Learning and Legacy

Exploring how family philanthropy can evolve across generations while remaining rooted in shared values and purpose

Aidan Lonergan and Aisling Johnston of the LFT Charitable Trust will share their experience of developing their family's approach to philanthropy, reflecting on what they have learned through giving and how their practice has evolved. The conversation will consider the opportunities and challenges of family giving and what it means to build a philanthropic legacy for the future.

Speakers: Aidan Lonergan and Aisling Johnston, LFT Charitable Trust

12.30–13.00 | Unlocking More Impactful Giving

Exploring how the right advice, relationships and support can turn an intention to give into meaningful action

This conversation will look at the role advisers, intermediaries and others across the philanthropy ecosystem can play in helping individuals and families move from an interest in giving towards thoughtful, strategic and sustained philanthropy.

Speakers: Clare Woodcraft and Cantor Fitzgerald

13.00–13.45 | Networking Lunch

An opportunity to build relationships and exchange ideas over lunch.

Continue the morning's conversations and connect with others from across the philanthropy community.

13.45–14.00 | The Future of Philanthropy

New insights into the values, motivations and attitudes that may shape the future of giving in Ireland.

This session will share first findings from emerging research exploring how people engaged in philanthropy think about wealth, responsibility, values and giving. The findings offer an early glimpse into some of the factors that could influence how philanthropy develops in Ireland in the years ahead.

Speaker: Hazel Hennessy, Philanthropy Ireland

14.00–14.40 | Learning from Leadership in Practice

Exploring the choices, challenges and lessons that shape effective philanthropy in practice

This facilitated conversation will explore different approaches to creating meaningful change, the decisions and relationships that shape philanthropic practice, and the lessons that emerge along the way. Speakers will reflect on what has worked, what has proved challenging and how those experiences continue to shape their approach to impact.

Speakers: Sunflower Charitable Foundation and Kate Jarvey

14.40–15.15 | What Should the Next Decade of Philanthropy Build?

A forward-looking conversation on what is needed to strengthen philanthropy in Ireland over the next decade

Drawing together the themes of Leadership, Learning and Legacy, this session will explore what is needed to support the continued development of strategic philanthropy in Ireland. It will consider the importance of leadership, collaboration, relationships and long-term thinking, while asking what kind of philanthropic culture and community we want to build for the future.

Speakers: Tim Murphy and John Hogan

15.15–15.35 | Reflections from the Day

Taking time to reflect on what we have heard and what we might carry forward

This session will draw together the ideas, experiences and questions that have emerged throughout the Symposium. It will invite participants to consider what has challenged or inspired them and how the day's learning might influence their own work, relationships and philanthropic practice.

15.35–15.50 | Acknowledging Champions of Philanthropy

A special moment to recognise those whose contribution has helped to advance philanthropy and its impact in Ireland.

15.50–16.00 | Closing Remarks

Bringing the day together and looking ahead to what comes next

Final reflections from Philanthropy Ireland and an invitation to continue learning, leading and collaborating in support of philanthropy's future.