Philanthropy Forum 2024: Philanthropy as a driver of sustainable development

We had the opportunity to participate in this beautiful and inspiring event in which various stakeholders unite to jointly face the challenges of today. The forum, which was attended by participants from Albania, Kosovo, Macedonia, Singapore, Serbia and Croatia and over 80 participants from institutions, businesses, civil society organizations and media, emphasized that philanthropic efforts play a key role in promoting and building a fairer and sustainable world for all. The forum shared best practices from the Balkans and beyond. Philanthropy is an action that creates more opportunities, partnerships and new models of enhanced cooperation that encourage growth on the path to sustainable development. One of the directions for action that was highlighted is that we should work on promoting strategic philanthropy, and not only on ad-hoc initiatives and providing support in emergency situations. At this event, Konekt also presented the possibilities of the new platform for group giving “Op-op” that allows donors to make thoughtful donations to worthy non-profit organizations that are proven to make big changes. 6 civil society organizations that have gone through the process of checking high international standards were awarded the “Mark of Trust” certificate and are recommended for donors to support. Don Carmine, Director of the USAID Office for Democracy and Good Governance, emphasized that USAID believes that philanthropy can be a driver of sustainable growth. Holders of top executive positions of domestic companies, members of the Konekt Responsible Business Club emphasized that the association of companies in this sustainability initiative will strengthen their positive impact on society in cooperation with the civil society sector. The media panel discussion highlighted the need for good philanthropic practices to rank higher in the topics that are the focus of editorial policies, fostering a national culture of philanthropy. This event is part of the USAID “Giving Partnerships” project implemented by “Konekt” in partnership with the European Center for Nonprofit Law (ECNL), the Chamber of Commerce of North-West Macedonia, Indigo, and the American Chamber of Commerce in North Macedonia