Resources_networks

Many giving circles operate as lone, independent organisations. But others belong to networks, perhaps with shared branding and even operating like a franchise. Many of the Asian giving circles identified in my research as 'transplanted' were members of a network with origins in the US or UK.

There are also several philanthropy intermediaries who support and facilitate giving circles in their country or even globally.

The giving circle 'ecosystem' is still in its infancy and remains fragmented. Philanthropy Together is an intermediary that is trying to connect giving circles globally and grow their number.

Philanthropy Together was launched in 2020 'to democratize and diversify philanthropy through the power of giving circles'. Their website is packed with information about collective giving, and while it is largely US-focused now, it is developing a searchable database of giving circles internationally. This initiative is the first to promote and support collective giving globally and the most significant contribution to developing the giving circle e

'ecosystem'. The website lists several key giving circle networks in the US, although a few operate internationally.

Awesome giving circles, like SVP, originated in the US and have expanded globally. Awesome's model is relatively informal and attractive to younger age group than most giving circles.

SVP is one of the oldest giving circle networks, originating in Seattle, US in 1997 but now with affiliates in 7 non-North American countries. Recent expansion in India and China is particularly notable (and has been documented in my working papers).