Rethink Ireland would like to welcome the development of the new National Philanthropy Policy. This policy will help shape philanthropy over the next few years in Ireland by promoting a culture of giving, encouraging collaboration and partnerships, focusing on targeted social issues, supporting capacity building, and emphasising research and evaluation.

We would like to thank Minister Joe O’Brien, TD and the Department of Rural and Community Development, along with other key stakeholders, for their leadership and commitment in the realm of philanthropy. Our partnership with Government since 2015 demonstrates a shared vision for leveraging philanthropic resources effectively to drive positive social impact and address key societal challenges.

Deirdre Mortell, CEO at Rethink Ireland, said: “Today, we embark on a transformative journey with the development of a new National Philanthropy Policy. This policy will shape the future of our organisation and our society as a whole. I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of the key stakeholders who have played an instrumental role in making this vision a reality. Together, we will create a legacy of meaningful impact and empower countless lives through our shared dedication to philanthropy.”

Philanthropy can be seen as societies’ risk capital. Unlike traditional funding sources, philanthropic capital operates independently and has the potential to be innovative, courageous and take risks that other funding mechanisms may not be able to undertake. By providing this risk capital, philanthropy can act as a catalyst for social innovation, experimentation, and progress, paving the way for new ideas and initiatives that have the potential to create significant positive change in society.

As a result of Rethink Ireland’s partnership with government, we have now created a cumulative Fund of €92.6 million, supported 382 social innovations, reached 829,425 people, created 667 jobs and helped over 2,700 marginalised people into employment.