On 15.12.2022, the Philanthropy Forum was held organized by Konekt and the network for financial sustainability as part of the USAID Donation Partnerships Project. This is an annual gathering of national leaders in philanthropy and includes representatives of the business community, institutions, and civil organizations, including the YMCA, who shared experiences and created models for enhanced cooperation.
Konekt’s research shows that half of the companies donate during the year which is an indication that there is significant philanthropic potential in our country. In terms of donating funds from citizens this year 2022, Macedonia rose to a solid 25th place compared to 75th in 2013 according to the ranking of the World Giving Index. At a time when unpredictable events in the world fill our daily lives, and the future is full of uncertainty, it is the right time for philanthropy to take its rightful place as a driver of positive change in the community. The forum presented the global trends and influences of philanthropy and put that point of view in a Macedonian perspective.
“As individuals, business owners, and managers, many of us open our wallets to support friends, family, and people who seek our emergency help. But when thought out and targeted for the benefit of the wider community, donations have the power to improve conditions in the long term and contribute to the well-being of society. We are creating donation partnerships to enable increased donations, real incentives for donors, and easy and fun ways to donate that will enable all citizens and companies to be part of the changes for a better tomorrow.” The Executive Director of “Konekt”, Ms. Nikica Kusinikova, pointed out.
The forum discussed overcoming the challenges to shape a favorable environment for increased donating in the function of accelerated development. The participants showed a willingness to nurture partnerships for donating, work on a better legal framework, become members of the Club of Responsible Businesses, and educate themselves about philanthropy and social responsibility, and the announced online platform for group donations aroused interest. This forum was organized by the USAID Donation Partnerships project, implemented by Connect, in partnership with the European Center for Non-Profit Law, the Chamber of Commerce of Northwest Macedonia, Indigo, and the American Chamber of Commerce in the Republic of North Macedonia.Photos from the event can be seen here and here.
