Program Overview

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Strategic Philanthropy Program

The Strategic Philanthropy program is an interdisciplinary course designed to provide participants with the necessary knowledge, skills, and instruments to set up a successful philanthropic organization. The program is offered by the University of Geneva and is tailored for mid-level professionals involved in national and international philanthropic organizations, corporate philanthropy, single and multi-family offices, as well as those interested in pursuing a career in philanthropic organizations.

Objectives

The program aims to:

• Master the complex, multifaceted context of contemporary Swiss and international philanthropy
• Understand philanthropy from a systemic perspective
• Learn about the principles, best practices, and key strategic elements to set up and run a structured and professional philanthropic organization

Audience

The program is designed for:

• Mid-level professionals involved in national and international philanthropic organizations
• Corporate philanthropy
• Single and multi-family offices
• Those interested in pursuing a career in philanthropic organizations

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the program, participants will be able to:

• Understand and master conceptual philanthropy frameworks along with novel financial instruments
• Develop an effective theory of change using state-of-the-art tools to implement, monitor, and evaluate the financial and social impact of a philanthropic endeavor
• Design a philanthropic strategy in line with an organizations mission, legal and tax parameters, general goals, and specific objectives
• Become inclusive leaders who harness the potential of board members, staff, and volunteers, develop partnerships with public and private actors, and understand both the funder and grantee sides of philanthropy

Program Structure

The program consists of 5 modules, each taking place every 3-4 weeks, and includes:

• 2 days in-person (Friday and Saturday)
• 1 day asynchronous online (before the module)
• 1 post-module assessment

Modules

The program covers the following modules:

1. Introduction to Philanthropy: Provides participants with a common analytical and conceptual framework for philanthropy, using the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a definition of public good and contextualizing the current philanthropic ecosystem.
2. Exploring the Diversity and Strategies of Philanthropic Foundations: Invites participants to investigate the diversity of grant-making foundations and showcases how to translate motivations and societal aspirations into coherent philanthropic initiatives.
3. Legal Structuring of Philanthropic Projects: Considers available Swiss, European, and international philanthropic legal structures, focusing on those available under Swiss law, and covers tax, governance, and financial restrictions or requirements.
4. Theory of Change and Impact Measurement: Introduces participants to planning, learning, and evaluation in philanthropic strategies and initiatives, and provides tools for evaluating impact, learning from experience, and using evidence and insights to inform decisions.
5. Inclusive Leadership and Governance: Equips participants with actionable strategies to lead with inclusive governance in the philanthropic sector, emphasizing the role of inclusive leadership in fostering collaboration, ensuring accountability, and empowering diverse voices.

Pedagogical Method

The program uses a blended learning approach, combining:

• Interactive experience-based learning
• Emphasis on exchange and networking with lecturers and participants
• Online learning consisting of short, pre-recorded videos and interactive webinars
• Guided personal research work developing critical thinking skills

Assessment

Depending on the module, different evaluation methods will be used, including:

• Analyses of case-studies
• Writing of reports
• Traditional multiple-choice exams

Fees

• CAS: CHF 7,500
• Single module: CHF 3,000
• Early bird: 10% discount for early bird or for members of Le Cercle de la philanthropie, Swiss Foundations, or Pro Fonds

Admission Criteria

• A minimum of three years of professional experience
• A Bachelors degree or equivalent
• English proficiency
• No prior responsibilities in philanthropy required

Application File

The application file should include:

• Copy of identity document or passport
• Passport photo
• Curriculum vitae
• Cover letter
• Letter of recommendation
• Copy of the highest educational qualification obtained
• Copy of work certificate(s)
• Proof of English language level

Cancellation Policy

Any withdrawal before the start of the program will incur an administration fee of CHF 400. Fees will be payable in full once the course has begun.

Partnerships and Collaboration

The program is partnered with Genevensis Communications and has a steering committee and scientific committee composed of experts from various fields.

Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals

The program contributes to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop effective philanthropic strategies that address global challenges.