Philanthropy Europe Association (also known as Philea) has called for the establishment of a single market for philanthropy that it says could unlock potential billions of euros worth of grants and incentives. 

Published in its 2024 edition of the European Philanthropy Manifesto, Philea says a single market for philanthropy could facilitate cross-border philanthropy by removing barriers that cost the sector €100 million per year that “prevent work on pressing societal challenges that do not stop at borders”. 

Philea also called on “better implementing Article 11 of the Treaty on European Union to create an open, transparent and regular dialogue with civil society, including philanthropy”.  

The 2024 European Philanthropy Manifesto was launched in Brussels, with over 100 policymakers and leaders from the world of philanthropy, wider civil society and social economy sectors taking part. 

“Today we put out a strong call to policymakers at EU and national levels to ensure that the philanthropy and foundation sector has the recognition and framework conditions it needs and deserves to contribute towards a society that works for people and planet, “ said Philea president, Angel Font. 

Delphine Moralis, Philea CEO, added: “The Philanthropy Manifesto is a call for the development of a single market without borders for the philanthropy sector and a call for engaging and partnering with our sector to develop the much-needed solutions to our green, digital and social transformations.” 

More than 186,000 foundations with a total annual expenditure of almost €64 billion make up the bulk of institutional philanthropy in Europe.  

Shafi Musaddique is the news editor at Alliance magazine.