What is shaping the future of philanthropy?
Trends in Philanthropy 2025 identifies key developments to watch

Philanthropy 2025
With the next generation—Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z—set to inherit substantial wealth over the coming decades, their opinions and preferences will increasingly influence the future of philanthropy.
$124 trillion
is expected to be transferred across generations in the next 25 years
$105 trillion
will flow to heirs
Four trends to watch
- 01
Focus on impact returns
Next Gens are increasingly blurring the lines between philanthropy and investing
- 02
Hands-on approach
Next Gens are more likely to work collaboratively, share knowledge and seek evidence of impact
- 03
Focus on climate and justice
Next Gens increasingly support initiatives focused on climate and social injustice
- 04
Tap the power of digital
Younger philanthropists are more likely to use technology to find, support, promote and track impact
We’ve seen our clients increasingly embrace innovative philanthropy. As we develop new ways of financing impact, we see our clients starting to adopt them, and Next Gen in particular is poised to accelerate this trend.
Head of Social Finance, UBS Optimus Foundation
Gain insights into trends shaping the future of philanthropy
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