European Research Network on Philanthropy (ERNOP) Releases 2025 Snapshot of Philanthropy Research in Europe
The European Research Network on Philanthropy (ERNOP) is pleased to share the 2025 Snapshot of Philanthropy Research in Europe. This latest edition highlights the growing landscape of academic institutions dedicated to philanthropy research, showcasing key developments and trends in the field.
The 2025 snapshot provides an updated overview of the research centers and academic chairs that are part of ERNOP’s institutional network. It outlines their main academic disciplines, key research questions, and the broad range of topics being explored across different universities and institutions. Notably, the 2025 edition demonstrates an expansion in interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating new perspectives from political science, sociology, economics, law, and management, among others.
Key Trends and Changes
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Growth of Multidisciplinary Research: The number of research centers integrating multiple academic disciplines into their study of philanthropy has increased. This trend underscores the complex and evolving nature of the philanthropic sector.
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New Areas of Focus: The 2025 snapshot highlights a shift toward investigating philanthropy’s role in addressing socio-economic inequality, impact investing, and cross-sector collaborations such as corporate volunteering and social impact bonds.
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Expanded Geographic Representation: Central and Eastern Europe are stronger positioned to ERNOP’s research network, reflecting a broader European perspective on philanthropy. We are also welcoming new members from the Netherlands.
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New Methods of Data Collection: Research on philanthropy is increasingly leveraging new data collection methods, exploring the ethical implications and governance challenges of using big data in philanthropic decision-making. The role of data-driven philanthropy is also gaining prominence, particularly in understanding how data and regulatory frameworks shape giving practices.
A Growing and Evolving Research Community
Barry Hoolwerf, Executive Director of ERNOP, states the following about the continuous development of philanthropy research in Europe:
“The 2025 snapshot of philanthropy research in Europe illustrates the increasing breadth and depth of academic inquiry into philanthropy. It is inspiring to see how researchers are addressing key societal challenges, from the ethics of fundraising to the role of philanthropy in democracy and governance. I am particularly pleased that the ERNOP network keeps growing and evolving, allowing for richer cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange.”
Academic Disciplines and Key Research Topics
The 2025 snapshot highlights the diverse academic fields engaged in philanthropy research, including business administration, law, sociology, political science, and nonprofit management. Researchers within ERNOP’s network are currently studying a wide array of topics, including:
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Donor Psychology and Fundraising Ethics – Understanding what motivates giving and how ethical considerations shape donor behavior.
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Corporate Philanthropy and Social Impact – Exploring how businesses engage in philanthropy and the effectiveness of corporate social responsibility initiatives.
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Volunteering and Civic Engagement – Examining the social and economic impacts of volunteering on individuals and communities.
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Philanthropy and Public Policy – Analyzing how regulatory frameworks influence philanthropy and nonprofit organizations.
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Technology and Philanthropy – Investigating how data-driven insights influence philanthropic strategies, particularly in institutions focused on measuring philanthropy’s societal impact.
The full 2025 snapshot is available here.
About ERNOP
The European Research Network on Philanthropy (ERNOP) is dedicated to promoting, advancing and coordinating research on philanthropy across Europe. Through its biennial conferences, publications, and research initiatives, ERNOP fosters collaboration among academics, policymakers, and practitioners to enhance understanding and practice in the philanthropic sector.