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 connect with fellow attendees before the formal programme begins.

9.45–10.00 | Opening Address: 10 Years of the Philanthropy Ireland Symposium

A welcome from Philanthropy Ireland marking ten years of the Symposium and introducing the themes of Leadership, Learning and Legacy.

Leadership

Where are we now, and what could leadership in philanthropy look like next?

10.00–10.45 | The Philanthropy Landscape in Ireland: Where Are We Now?

An evidence-led overview of philanthropy in Ireland today, drawing on research, policy developments, giving trends and highlighting the impact being made by the philanthropic community.

10.45–11.30 | The Leadership Role of Philanthropy in a Changing Ireland

A keynote conversation exploring philanthropy as a form of civic leadership that can take risks, support innovation and invest in sustainable change.

11.30–11.50 | Morning Break

Tea, coffee and networking.

Learning

What are we learning from experience about how philanthropy is encouraged and practiced?

11.50–12.35 | Unlocking More and Better Giving

A panel discussion exploring how professional advisers, donors and philanthropy ecosystem can help transform an intention to give into strategic and lasting action.

12.35–13.15 | What Impact Looks Like in Practice

Facilitated conversations reflecting on the approaches that enable organisations to achieve meaningful change.

13.15–14.00 | Networking Lunch

An opportunity to continue the conversations and deepen relationships over lunch.

Legacy

How can philanthropy channel wealth for generational impact?

14.00–14.15 | The Future of Philanthropy

New research exploring how families engaged in philanthropy think about wealth, responsibility, values and future giving.

14.15–15.00 | Family, Wealth and Legacy

A panel conversation examining how families, founders and future generations approach continuity, social responsibility and long-term impact.

15.00–15.45 | What Should the Next Decade of Philanthropy Build?

A closing but forward-looking conversation bringing together the themes of the day and considering elements needed to continue the development of strategic philanthropy in Ireland into the next decade.

15.45–16.00 | Closing Remarks

Final reflections from Philanthropy Ireland and an invitation for continued collaboration.