The Global Philanthropy Data Charter is intended as a framework to guide organizations in the sector as they set out to improve philanthropy data, acknowledging the diversity of context, culture, and legal framework within which these organizations operate.

The Global Philanthropy Data Charter is intended as a framework to guide organizations in the sector as they set out to improve philanthropy data, acknowledging the diversity of context, culture, and legal framework within which these organizations operate. It proposes both a code of good practice to improve the working relationships of those involved in philanthropy data—users, providers and collectors—as well as a framework for engaging other sectors (governments, corporations, academia and civil society in general) around sharing and using philanthropy data for public benefit including supporting the SDGs.

The Data Charter will help provide a better picture of global philanthropy and develop a standard of principles that help the sector take full advantage of new opportunities. It will both improve cooperation among stakeholders of existing data initiatives and encourage new initiatives; as well as foster efficiency in data collection and sharing. Benefits include better decision-making processes and greater visibility of the sector’s contributions to society.

BACKGROUND

Demand for reliable, globally comparable data on philanthropy has never been greater. A multitude of factors including advances in technology, a growing interest in data gathering and use, public demand for transparency, and a push for a more strategic approach to giving have provided a unique opportunity for the philanthropic sector to organize itself and the way it deals with data.  Accurate, accessible data will allow the sector to assess needs, identify trends, set priorities and allocate resources.

To address these challenges, WINGS conducted, jointly with the Foundation Center, a series of consultations with international actors from the field to generate critical thinking on the magnitude and nature of the challenges of the philanthropy data landscape; to explore the ways in which data efforts could be improved; and to work towards a common vision and principles for global data on philanthropy. To that end, these consultations have produced the Global Philanthropy Data Charter.

To learn more about the Global Philanthropy Data Charter and its resources, please click here.

CONTACT INFORMATION

For more information about the Global Philanthropy Data Charter, please contact: