ERNOP Releases Full Program for 12th International Conference: Philanthropy by the People, for the People?
The European Research Network on Philanthropy (ERNOP) is pleased to announce the release of the full conference program for its 12th International Conference, taking place on 25–26 September 2025 in Heidelberg, Germany. Hosted by the Centre for Social Investment at Heidelberg University, the conference will bring together over 150 leading scholars, practitioners, and policymakers from across Europe and beyond.
Under the theme “Philanthropy by the People, for the People? The Roles, Organisations and Motivations of Philanthropy in Contemporary Democracies and Social Structures”, the conference will address the evolving place of philanthropy within changing democratic, social, and economic systems.
Two Keynotes
The conference will feature keynote addresses by:
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Prof. Liv Egholm (Copenhagen Business School), who will examine the dual roles of philanthropy as both a democratic force and a private interest—and what this means for social cohesion and civic imagination.
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Dr. Daniela Schwarzer (Bertelsmann Stiftung), one of Europe’s foremost experts on democracy and geopolitical strategy, who will reflect on philanthropy’s contribution to democratic resilience across Europe.
A Rich Program
With over 30 parallel sessions and multiple panels, the program includes cutting-edge research on:
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Philanthropic legitimacy and democratic accountability
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Participatory grantmaking and trust-based philanthropy
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AI in fundraising and ethical imagery
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Corporate philanthropy and cross-sectoral partnerships
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Justice philanthropy, volunteering, and civic resilience
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Emerging trends in European giving and foundation governance
Panel sessions such as “Mapping Philanthropy in Europe” and “Transformative Philanthropy for Sustainability Governance” highlight ERNOP’s ongoing commitment to bridging research and practice, while bringing new findings that fuel the sector.
An esteemed list of moderators will provide a shortlist of papers that will be nominated for the ERNOP Best Conference Paper Award
Opportunities to Connect and Reflect
Participants are also invited to develop their network at the ERNOP Conference Dinner at the Cultural Centre Dezernat 16 and to engage in optional site visits on the final day.
Registration and Information
The full program and registration details are available at:
? www.ernop.eu
Full program here.
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