ERNOP releases the 2026 Snapshot of Philanthropy Research
The European Research Network on Philanthropy (ERNOP) is shares the Snapshot of Philanthropy Research 2026, offering the latest overview of institutions and organisations contributing to the study and advancement of philanthropy.
The snapshot maps the research centres and academic chairs within ERNOP’s institutional network, outlining their academic disciplines, philanthropy-related focus areas, and key research questions.
A broader view of the philanthropy research ecosystem
A key development in the 2026 edition is the expansion of the snapshot beyond academic institutions. While the 2025 snapshot focused exclusively on university-based research centres and chairs, the 2026 snapshot also includes the research-related work and interests of ERNOP’s associated and supporting members.
These organisations include foundations, philanthropy infrastructure organisations, think tanks, and policy-oriented research units that contribute to knowledge production and exchange in the philanthropic sector. By incorporating these actors, the snapshot provides a broader picture of the philanthropy research ecosystem, acknowledging that knowledge about philanthropy is generated both within academia and within organisations working at the intersection of research, practice, and policy.
What remains consistent
Despite this expanded scope, the snapshot also confirms several continuities in philanthropy research across the ERNOP network.
First, philanthropy research remains highly multidisciplinary, drawing on fields such as sociology, economics, political science, law, business administration, and public administration. Researchers approach philanthropy from diverse theoretical and methodological perspectives, reflecting the complexity of the field.
Second, the research questions addressed by ERNOP members remain strongly connected to civil society and the nonprofit sector. Across the network, scholars continue to examine issues such as:
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philanthropic behaviour and motivations for giving and volunteering
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governance and effectiveness of philanthropic organisations
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the relationship between philanthropy, democracy, and civil society
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the role of philanthropy in addressing societal challenges such as inequality and sustainability
Together, these themes illustrate how philanthropy research seeks to understand both the practices of giving and the broader societal role of philanthropic actors.
A growing and evolving research community
Barry Hoolwerf, Executive Director of ERNOP, comments:
“The 2026 Snapshot of Philanthropy Research reflects the growing diversity of actors contributing to knowledge on philanthropy. By including the research-related work of associated and supporting members, we recognise the important role that foundations, infrastructure organisations, and policy actors play in strengthening the evidence base for philanthropy. Together, they form a vibrant ecosystem advancing both research and practice.”
About the snapshot
The 2026 snapshot presents the institutions and organisations within the ERNOP network that contribute to the study, understanding, and practice of philanthropy. Institutional members represent academic research centres and chairs, while associated and supporting members contribute through research, policy engagement, and knowledge exchange activities.
The full 2026 Snapshot of Philanthropy Research can be accessed here:
https://ernop.eu/snapshot-of-european-philanthropy-research/snapshot-2026/
About ERNOP
The European Research Network on Philanthropy (ERNOP) promotes, advances, and coordinates research on philanthropy across Europe. Through its conferences, publications, and research initiatives, ERNOP fosters collaboration between academics, practitioners, and policymakers working to better understand and strengthen philanthropy in society.