Vol 22 Number 4 December 2017 www.alliancemagazine.org

32 Special feature Philanthropy and the media Guest editor Miguel Castro, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

14 48 52 56 Interview: Adessium Philanthropy – the The crisis of civic media Foundation-backed Foundation media’s enlightened Bruce Sievers of Stanford journalism Founder, Gerard van Vliet despots University and Patrice Barbara Hans, editor-in-chief Schneider from the Media speaks exclusively to Alliance Gustavo Gorriti, editor of of Spiegel Online, on why it’s Development Investment IDL-Reporteros, reports best to proceed with caution Fund on new models from Peru to build trust Alliance Editorial Board Janet Mawiyoo 01 Akwasi Aidoo Kenya Community Humanity United, Development Senegal Foundation Editorial Lucy Bernholz Bhekinkosi Moyo Stanford University Southern Africa Trust, South Africa Center on Philanthropy New look and Civil Society, US Timothy Ogden AllianceThe only philanthropy magazine Philanthropy Action,US David Bonbright with a truly global focus Keystone, UK Felicitas von Peter and Michael philanthropy Carola Carazzone Alberg-Seberich Assifero, Italy Active Philanthropy, Maria Chertok Germany media CAF Russia Adam Pickering Andre Degenszajn Charities Aid Brazil Foundation, UK

Vol 22 Eva Rehse Number 4 Christopher Harris December 2017 www.alliancemagazine.org AllianceFor philanthropy and social investment worldwide US Global Greengrants John Harvey Fund, Europe US Natalie Ross Charles Keidan Jenny Hodgson Council on Editor, Alliance. Foundations, US Global Fund for Community Lourdes Sanz [email protected] Foundations, CEMEFI, Mexico

Vol 22 Number 4 December 2017 South Africa www.alliancemagazine.org AllianceFor philanthropy and social investment worldwide Ingrid Srinath Marcos Kisil Centre for Social

Vol 22 32 Number 4 December 2017 Institute for Impact and Special feature www.alliancemagazine.org For philanthropy and social investment worldwide Alliance Development Philanthropy, Ashoka Welcome to the new-look Philanthropy and Social University, India and the media Guest editor Investment, Brazil Miguel Castro, Bill & Melinda Boris Streˇcanský Alliance magazine. Gates Foundation Barry Knight Centre for Philanthropy, 14 48 52 56 CENTRIS, UK Slovakia The flagship of Alliance facing philanthropy. Our stellar 32 Interview: Adessium Philanthropy – the The crisis of civic media Foundation-backed Special feature Foundation media’s enlightened Bruce Sievers of Stanford journalism Founder, Gerard van Vliet despots University and Patrice Barbara Hans, editor-in-chief Schneider from the Media speaks exclusively to Alliance Gustavo Gorriti, editor of of Spiegel Online, on why it’s Atallah Kuttab Carolina Suarez Publishing Trust is this panel of contributors from Development Investment Philanthropy IDL-Reporteros, reports best to proceed with caution Fund on new models from Peru and the media to build trust SAANED for AFE (Association Guest editor 32 Vol 22 Miguel Castro, Bill & Melinda Number 4 December 2017 magazine, our quarterly publications including Spiegel, www.alliancemagazine.org AllianceFor philanthropy and social investment worldwide Special feature Gates Foundation Philanthropy Advisory of Corporate and Philanthropy 14 48 52 56 Services – Arab Region Family Foundations), print publication dedicated The Guardian and the BBC Interview: Adessium Philanthropy – the The crisis of civic media Foundation-backed and the media Foundation media’s enlightened Bruce Sievers of Stanford journalism Guest editor Founder, Gerard van Vliet despots University and Patrice Barbara Hans, editor-in-chief Colombia Schneider from the Media Miguel Castro, Bill & Melinda speaks exclusively to Alliance Gustavo Gorriti, editor of of Spiegel Online, on why it’s Development Investment to the pursuit of independent consider philanthropy’s role best to proceed with caution Gates Foundation Peter Laugharn IDL-Reporteros, reports Fund on new models from Peru 32 to build trust Special feature Philanthropy Volker Then and the media Conrad N Hilton Guest editor Miguel Castro, Bill & Melinda 14 48 52 56 Gates Foundation coverage of philanthropy in promoting investigative Interview: Adessium Philanthropy – the The crisis of civic media Foundation-backed 14 48 52 56 Foundation media’s enlightened Bruce Sievers of Stanford journalism Interview: Adessium Philanthropy – the The crisis of civic media Foundation-backed Centre for Social Foundation media’s enlightened Bruce Sievers of Stanford journalism Foundation, US University and Patrice Founder, Gerard van Vliet despots University and Patrice Barbara Hans, editor-in-chief Founder, Gerard van Vliet despots Barbara Hans, editor-in-chief speaks exclusively to Alliance Gustavo Gorriti, editor of Schneider from the Media of Spiegel Online, on why it’s IDL-Reporteros, reports Development Investment best to proceed with caution Schneider from the Media Fund on new models speaks exclusively to Alliance of Spiegel Online, on why it’s from Peru Gustavo Gorriti, editor of to build trust IDL-Reporteros, reports Development Investment best to proceed with caution Fund on new models worldwide. You read it for journalism and combating fake from Peru Investment, Heidelberg to build trust Catherine Lennon University, Germany European Foundation opinion and analysis of news, and whether the field Centre Tao Ze trends and developments should welcome or fear the Penelope Lewis President, China Foundation Center in the sector, interviews with changes under way. World Bank Wang Zhenyao leading philanthropists and Halima Mahomed This issue also features the Beijing Normal foundations, and of course SUBSCRIBE to get better connected with special South Africa first-ever interview – anywhere University China our in-depth special feature. Foundation Research – with founder of the Adessium Institute features, interviews, analysis, news and much more. Our mission to produce high Foundation, Gerard van Vliet. Editor Marketing & quality and independent He explains the vision behind Charles Keidan advertising officer coverage of philanthropy is the foundation and the values PRINT DIGITAL BULK Associate editors Amy McGoldrick as strong as ever but we’ve that have steered its course Laura McCaffrey amy@alliance & DIGITAL ONLY SUBSCRIPTIONS Andrew Milner magazine.org changed the design and format over its first ten years. Together Contributing editor Picture research of the magazine to make the with his son, Rogier van Vliet Need your colleagues or Gemma Lawrence £89 / $145 / €115 £42 / $64 / €52 Timothy Ogden content more accessible and and managing director, trustees to have insider Executive director Interns easier to navigate. Many of Rogier van der Weerd, we learn • Quarterly magazines • Quarterly magazines, Jacob Beck access to philanthropy and David Drewery you have asked for these more about the practice of delivered to your door online or in PDF david@alliance Design its progress worldwide? magazine.org Steers McGillan Eves changes and we’re excited philanthropy, the Adessium way. • Exclusive online content • Exclusive online content Communication & to hear your reaction. We offer a range of bulk circulation officer Our aim is to help make • Weekly Alliance Extra emails • Weekly Alliance Extra emails subscriptions with heavily Kathryn Murrell The centrepiece of this issue philanthropy better by giving • Unlimited archive access kathryn@alliance is our special feature on it the attention and scrutiny • Unlimited archive access discounted prices. magazine.org philanthropy and the media. it deserves. Alliance Publishing Trust Board of Trustees Our guest editor, Miguel Castro Your support enables us to hold John R Healy (Chair) Leticia Ruiz-Capillas of the Bill & Melinda Gates up a mirror to philanthropy – I President, Atlantic European Foundation Foundation and I take you on a Philanthropies Centre hope you enjoy the new view. (2001–07) journey through the key issues SUBSCRIBE Stefan Schäfers TODAY Shannon Lawder King Baudouin Charles Stewart Mott Foundation “Alliance magazine is like a Foundation Pieter Stemerding Felix Oldenburg Stemerding Philanthropy central nervous system for the Association of German Services alliancemagazine.org/subscribe Foundations Katherine Watson Contact us global philanthropic community” Darin McKeever European Cultural Alliance magazine, 15 Prescott Place, or email [email protected] William Davidson Foundation, London SW4 6BS Foundation, US Netherlands UK +44 207 062 8920 or call +44 (0) 207 062 8920 Jonah Wittkamper, Nexus [email protected] 03

Regulars Opinion & Special feature analysis

5 Letters 32 8 Philanthropy Global updates and the media

FEATURING George Soros transfers OVERVIEW GLOBAL VIEW MODELS 56 $18 billion to Open Society The opportunities and limits of Foundations 46 52 foundation-funded journalism 14 The crisis of civic media Journalists should embrace philanthropy Deep philanthropy Supporting independent media but proceed with caution, warns Barbara 62 in an age of misinformation A healthy democracy needs Hans, Spiegel Online. Interview: Adessium Foundation independent and trustworthy James Deane of BBC Media Action Book reviews Founder, Gerard van Vliet gives his information. This is in dire peril. argues that philanthropic efforts to first-ever media interview together Philanthropy must help, write Bruce support an independent media need with Rogier van Vliet and Rogier Sievers of Stanford University and greater cohesion. 58 64 van der Weerd. Patrice Schneider from the Media Safeguarding The Guardian Development Investment Fund. Conferences Rachel White discusses how philanthropic support is not just a lifeline for news 34 outlets, it can open up new possibilities. 22 The pursuit of mutually Does philanthropy need assured survival a new story? FAKE NEWS Philanthropy and the media need The Anglo-American language of each other. Working together can philanthropy can’t fully express really make a difference in realizing the changing face of the sector, our missions, writes Miguel Castro of 59 write Oksana Oracheva of Vladimir the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The fight against ‘fake news’? Potanin Foundation and Barry Knight of the Global Fund for Community Helping to re-establish trust in Foundations. journalism is essential if its audience 39 is to be retained. Jessica Clark of Media Impact Funders discusses what The media philanthropy philanthropy is doing to help. space in 2017 54 While philanthropic funding for Underwriting independent journalism is growing, most of it media 60 comes from, and goes to, the US, 48 Who owns a media company, and reports Eric Karstens, grant consultant The media’s enlightened despots why and how they own it are crucial A Conversation about fake for the European Journalism Centre The death and re-birth of journalism? questions in journalism, argues Stichting news that we need to have and other clients. In Latin America, it’s a bit more Democratie en Media’s Nienke Venema. How can you rely on funders, but complicated, reports Gustavo Gorriti, guard against interference? The IN PROFILE editor of IDL-Reporteros in Peru. BOUNDARIES Conversation has a way to make it work, writes Misha Ketchell.

41 50 55 LAST WORD 27 Media relations Time to rethink philanthropy Rule of the road for non-profit What is philanthropy Spotlight on selected media journalism in East Africa journalism funding infrastructure for? organizations supported by Anthony Wafula and Mendi Njonjo Tom Rosenstiel and Kevin Loker from the 61 philanthropy, foundation programmes Funding the philanthropy media As infrastructure reaches a crossroads, of Hivos Hub East Africa argue that American Press Institute suggest that on the media, and philanthropists who philanthropists need to invest in the as philanthropists move increasingly Philanthropy needs scrutiny; enlightened should it lead or follow? Andrew Milner own or back media. asks the questions. journalistic ecosystem. into financing media, both funders and foundations should fund our sector’s beneficiaries need clear guidelines. media, urges Charles Keidan. Contents 05

The September issue of Alliance magazine focused on diversity – or rather the lack of it – within philanthropic organizations, and contained some bold and provocative proposals. Our readers comment on the issues raised.

Now is the time to build a movement for philanthropic equity

Six finalists will be featured in I congratulate Alliance for communities. Then define, assess Above: South Asia Do you know an individual who Women’s Fund a special Alliance supplement bringing even more global and transform your practices – both attention to these issues around operationally and in grantmaking – supports grassroots has demonstrated remarkable and funded to attend a global mobilizing of diversity in philanthropy. to be more inclusive. indigenous women philanthropy conference in in Nepal to claim leadership, creativity and results In this unprecedented political • Shift your investments to 2018. The winner will receive their human rights. in developing philanthropy for climate where the most basic rights unrestricted resources in an additional £5,000 to use are under threat, philanthropic underinvested communities, progressive social change in at their discretion. professionals and institutions in the bolstering the power of those US must stand in solidarity with communities to make an emerging market country Go to alliancemagazine.org/ immigrants, the LGBTQI community, self-directed social change. olga-alexeeva-memorial-prize people of colour, women, people The momentum for philanthropic or countries? to find out more and make with disabilities and all those who equity is building. We saw this intersect with these identities. For your nominations. demonstrated at the recent CHANGE philanthropy, this means we must Philanthropy’s 2017 Unity Summit, in collectively advocate for equity in Deadline for nominations New Orleans, Louisiana, which, with every corner of society. Equity in over 700 participants, was the largest philanthropy is the investment of is 19th December 2017! and most diverse convening of social and financial resources in progressive funders in philanthropic policies, practices and actions that history. More philanthropy-serving produce equitable access, power organizations are exploring equity and outcomes for all communities. in their programming, including To move toward philanthropic equity, partners like Grantmakers in the we invite you to shift your practice Arts, Grantmakers for Effective and embed equity into your work. Organizations, United Philanthropy • Change your operational policies Forum and Peak Grantmaking. All and practices to be inclusive of these organizations, and many more, people from underinvested are examining how their institutions communities – from the board and continue the equity journey, internally The prize is generously supported by: leadership team to entry-level and externally. associates. Carly Hare • Create space in your foundation to Coalition catalyst, gain an understanding of diverse CHANGE Philanthropy Letters 06 07

But it’s important to note that strategies that leverage a beyond demographic data foundation’s role in advancing Move beyond alignment between foundation social justice movements. personnel and the communities This includes recommending diversity – served, we need to shift the power interventions to self-assess how dynamic between funder and we can go beyond inviting the reframe power grantee to promote meaningful usual suspects to solve a complex change. This means funders must community issue. We at National Committee ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 be intentional in building trust by for Responsive Philanthropy These strategies may seem sharing power and giving up (NCRP) appreciated Alliance’s straightforward and simple, but control – to better listen and move September 2017 issue highlighting entrenched in the cultural norms away from a paternalistic approach the fact that communities served set by foundations misaligned with in funding complex problems. are not reflected in grantmaking community needs, they become This may require dismantling how programme staffs. extraordinarily difficult to execute decision-making works and moving well. We look forward to learning The systemic inequities that it away from the ivory tower offices more from our international perpetuate barriers to of a foundation. partners on this, and hope we can opportunities for communities At NCRP, we are writing a guide make better progress on equity of colour is not a new problem for for funders to go beyond the grantmaking for social change US philanthropy, but we’re having diversity issue in grantmaking by than we have so far. more explicit conversations about reframing power. There are three why foundations haven’t been able Jennifer Choi pillars to do this: building power to effectively address this issue in Vice president and chief content within communities through the face of a new administration officer, NCRP community organizing and where white nationalism has advocacy funding; sharing power resurfaced in our political with community stakeholders consciousness. We’ve written to promote community-driven about this in response to the change; and finally wielding Charlottesville, VA attack. power through public leadership

For the third sector, the goal is not how we as a sector pluck from to make a profit. We as an industry circles we know and use Multiplying value, are driven by our moral compass headhunters similar to ourselves. and by making an impact in the But if we did venture outside of not dividing it world. Unlike other industries, the comfort zones and in the process motivation behind diversity or create safe spaces for healthy When I heard that hitting diversity metrics isn’t critique and feedback, we can September’s issue of making money. It’s done because begin to push forward and evolve. Alliance magazine would it is the moral thing to do. spearhead the topic of diversity, Whether that takes the form of to say I was pleased would be an However, according to research the measures suggested by Mehta understatement. But it was Bharat by Inclusive Boards – which found – such as hiring individuals with Mehta’s article ‘The glass ceiling: the largest charities have a smaller direct experience with the issues we cracked but not dismantled’ and proportion of people from ethnic are combatting or anonymous CVs his words about the need to share minorities on their boards than – I believe that by approaching issues power that struck a chord for me. FTSE 100 companies – the third from the view of a shared economy, sector is still behind the private one in which both wealth and value in terms of diversity. Given the are shared, we can address the core underlying motivation for the motivations of the sector and unlock industry as a whole, shirking channels to promote diversity. Only capitalist ideals feeds into what by tapping into experiences at every Mehta was saying about sharing level and background will we … if we did venture outside the power at the top, rather than multiply value, rather than dividing it. wielding it. of comfort zones and in Mike Buonaiuto the process create safe Charities and social enterprises are Executive director and founder, spaces for healthy traditionally risk-averse, which has Shape History critique and feedback, contributed to the lack of diversity. Mehta’s article outlined concerns we can begin to push regarding the hiring process, and

LETTERS forward and evolve. 08 09

UK foundation The Europe grantmaking hits record ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 Americas high Grantmaking by the top 300 UK foundations by spending grew by 12.2% in 2016, reaching an all-time high of £2.9 billion. Extra grants help to The figures come from George Soros Foundation Giving Trends, expand work of the annual research transfers Andes Amazon Fund project published by the Two new grants will enable the Association of Charitable Andes Amazon Fund (AAF) to work $18 billion to to conserve areas of land along the Foundations in association Amazon in Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, with Cass Business School. Open Society and Ecuador, as well as to promote The research also includes the Peru’s national parks system top 150 family foundations and Foundations and support local civil society DAFNE appoints new the top 50 corporate foundations. Hedge fund manager and organizations as they establish new Personal and family philanthropy philanthropist George Soros has groups of conservation advocates through foundations grew by given $18 billion to his Open Society at both local and national levels. Maxexecutive von Abendroth has taken director up his advocacy work for the foundation nearly 20% to reach £1.87 billion, Foundations, one of the largest The Gordon and Betty Moore new role as executive director of sector across Europe’, according to representing 64% of the total transfers of wealth ever made by a Foundation has pledged a $5 million DAFNE (Donors and Foundations DAFNE chair Felix Oldenburg, CEO value of top 300 grantmaking. private donor to a single foundation. dollar grant to support biodiversity Networks in Europe). Based in of the Bundesverband Deutscher Meanwhile, corporate philanthropy It makes Open Society the second and conservation of endemic Brussels, his appointment will allow Stiftungen in Germany. grew by 9% in real terms over 2015, biggest philanthropic organization in species. The gift was announced DAFNE to strengthen strategic and and by 35% over the past five years. http://tinyurl.com/MA-DAFNE the US, after the Bill & Melinda Gates alongside an additional $10 million mutually supportive relationships The average growth in income in Foundation. Founded by Soros more grant from the Wyss Foundation. Below: Wayqecha and enhance ‘the effectiveness of Biological Station, 2016 was 4.4% on the back of than 30 years ago, Open Society healthy gains from investments, www.andesamazonfund.org Peru. promotes democracy and human while assets grew by 9.6%. rights in more than 120 countries. http://tinyurl.com/FGT2017 www.opensocietyfoundations.org Turkey Giving Circles New report on the rise The fifth giving circle organized from EVPA by the Third Sector Foundation of Brazilian Philanthropy EVPA has launched a new report Turkey (TUSEV) in October saw Russian community Financing for social impact – the 90 donors pledge ¤11,000. Three Forum key role of tailored financing and CSOs presented their projects to foundation More than 180 participants hybrid finance. It follows a win the funding, including a plan to attended the Brazilian Philanthropy nine-month study by EVPA increase the number of free guide roundtable Forum in São Paulo. Organized by CAF Russia organized a round table Knowledge Centre working with dogs available to visually impaired the Institute for the Development event in London in September to a group of over 30 experts. The individuals, a series of workshops of Social Investment (IDIS), it discuss how the emergence of research looks at how funding can with disadvantaged children on brought together a diverse group Russian community foundations be shaped to meet the financial human rights, gender equality and of large companies, civil society has impacted the development of needs of the social purpose inclusion, and encouraging the organizations and wealthy families civil society, with local movements organizations (SPOs) and how production of electricity using to discuss how to achieve spreading across the nation. The first actors collaborate in the venture renewable resources. sustainable development in Brazil. Russian community foundation was philanthropy/social impact space Discussions focused on questions Giving circles are a relatively new set up in 1998, and community to bring more resources to SPOs. such as ‘how to evaluate success in concept in Turkey, and it remains foundations have since expanded addressing complex social issues’. https://tinyurl.com/ to be seen if donors and CSOs can out of established industrial centres EVPA-Impact build a long-term relationship. into provincial areas. http://idis.org.br/forum/en Andes Amazon Fund Amazon Andes http://tinyurl.com/TurkishGC http://tinyurl.com/RussianCF Global updates 10 11

Indian giving rising, but not to social Africa and Asia and justice causes Philanthropy is increasing in India, especially among young

ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 middle-class people. On the other Middle East the Pacific hand, while social change is taking place in the country, it’s more often despite than because of philanthropy. These are two of the most striking findings of a report published by Philanthropy for Below: Vaccination Social Justice and Peace (PSJP) in programme in Nigeria. association with WINGS, Alliance Leading Saudi and the Centre for Social Impact Right: Traditional and Philanthropy at Ashoka dances and songs Beijing philanthropist commits philanthropist are vital for University. arrested on deepening pride in $1.5 billion to conservation M a¯ o r i c u l t u r e . The study finds that ‘safe sectors’, corruption charges Chinese philanthropist He government. It will also involve a with education prime among them, A new anti-corruption body Qiaonv has announced the $20 million partnership with Panthera, attract the bulk of donations from headed by the Crown Prince largest-ever philanthropic a leading international wildcat both institutions and individuals. of Saudi Arabia has detained Abu Dhabi Crown conservation organization. The gift Perhaps surprisingly, despite the Philanthropy- commitment to wildlife reflects a renewed commitment to the founder of the Alwaleed Prince backs global 2014 CSR Act, the relative share of Philanthropies, Prince Alwaleed conservation. wildlife restoration and conservation corporate contributions fell to 15 efforts among China’s philanthropists. bin Talal, the BBC has reported. backed drive to beat polio Her pledge, totalling $1.5 billion per cent in 2016 from 30 per cent in It also reflects policy changes that are over seven years, will go towards 2011, while individual donations have Among the richest men in the world, increasing public-private partnerships campaign establishing and maintaining wildlife seen a six-fold rise in the same period. Alwaleed is the owner of Kingdom and charitable giving in China. reserves and conservation parks in Holding, one of Saudi Arabia’s most http://tinyurl.com/ partnership with the Chinese http://tinyurl.com/Otaki-hui  important investment firms with tackles Philanthropy-in-India stakes in companies including Twitter, Citigroup, Lyft, and the Four neglected Seasons hotel chain. The Alwaleed International Funders Philanthropies aims to ‘ensure diseases in dignity and opportunity, regardless The crown prince of Abu Dhabi, for Indigenous Peoples of culture, faith or location’ with Zimbabwe Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Pacific Hui emphasis on educating and The END Fund, a collaboration of al Nahayan, has pledged International Funders for Indigenous protecting children, building social global philanthropists dedicated $30 million to help finish the Peoples held its Pacific Hui in Otaki entrepreneurship and fighting to the treatment and prevention of job of eradicating the polio in New Zealand’s North Island. disease. It also strives to empower neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) virus. An estimated $1.5 billion is women and youth. In 2016, that affect more than 1.5 billion needed to eradicate the disease The hui, a Ma¯ori word for a Alwaleed became the first Muslim people worldwide, has partnered completely. Major pledges also gathering, brought together Arab to join the Gates-Buffett with Econet Wireless, Higherlife announced include $450 million indigenous advocates and Giving Pledge, according to the Foundation, and the Zimbabwean from the Bill & Melinda Gates philanthropists from the Pacific foundation’s website. On signing the Ministry of Health and Child Care. Foundation, $75 million and $55 and beyond. Their focus was to pledge, Alwaleed stated: ‘It is our Millions of people in Zimbabwe million from the governments of foster collaborative partnerships duty as philanthropists to harness received text messages regarding Canada and Japan respectively, to resource indigenous-designed the very best of human nature... ongoing mass drug administration $61.4 million from the European solutions for climate change, to make the biggest possible programmes for NTDs. On 30 Union and £25 million from environmental sustainability difference in people’s lives.’ October, the Ministry of Health Bloomberg Philanthropies. and healthy food systems. Amidst corruption allegations, and Child Care launched a new The virus remains endemic only ‘Philanthropy needs to work with Attorney General Sheikh Saud campaign to treat people with one in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Indigenous Peoples, not do to al-Mojeb said the status of or more NTDs. These mass drug Nigeria, but poses a threat to Indigenous Peoples’, said Chelsea detainees would not influence ‘the administration campaigns are other developing countries with Grootveld, a Ma¯ori board member firm and fair application of justice’. It used to provide treatment to large poor access to sanitation and of the J R McKenzie Trust, one of the is currently unclear what this means populations at risk. More than vaccines. This new push will oldest philanthropic entities in NZ. for Saudi Arabian philanthropy or seven million people have been go towards vaccination efforts, The trust has evolved from having no for Alwaleed bin Talal. targeted for treatment in 2017. disease surveillance, and Ma¯ori board members to four today. stopping the spread of the virus. http://tinyurl.com/Otaki-hui http://tinyurl.com/AlwaleedGP http://tinyurl.com/ Rucha Chitnis Rucha GLOBAL UPDATES ENDFund-MDA http://tinyurl.com/erad-polio 12 ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 Alliance online updates. Don’tupdates. miss out! vital analysis and weekly email subscriber-only interviews, content,and daily including access to rich archive our online event.isn’t aquarterly Unlock only Subscribing to Alliance alliancemagazine.org urgently urgently needed. the why and is concept of philanthropy’ ‘sharing short falling is philanthropy American Latin why analyses of director Ellas: Women & Philanthropy, and co-founder Roitstein, Florencia wealth sharing philanthropy, not hoarding Philanthropy Thinker – Latin America: measuring impact. count of and the complications which can make their foundations capital in ways the assesses executive, Lisa Jordan, senior philanthropic foundation of a with the promise private Philanthropy Thinker – Keeping faith Subscriber-only interviews and analysis published every Tuesday the SDGs. the international development and involvement with philanthropy’s about CEO of Philanthropic, Global Morton Wright, president and group at and consultant Ben Comic Relief; Wijeyesekera, international development partnerships at GiveDirectly; Dilhani of director Macrae, European Dr Joanna Keidan a hosts Charles with discussion Development Sustainable Goals UN’s The Audio: Alliance Alliance Extra highlights Extra

magazine magazine Pound Donors Report tenth edition of flagship Coutts’ the mark to approach and work Institute, toInstitute, the discuss Institute’s and philanthropy adviser at the Coutts down with Lenka Setkova, director Alliance Setkova Lenka Interview: her work foundation’s with refugees. about Keidan Charles to talks Hans Weisser Stiftung Hamburg-based Wintrich of Michaela the Interview: Michaela Wintrich Editor Keidan sits Charles . Million Million

cause harm? cause companies whose in products investments justify to do must foundation programmes good much how ask Ogden Tim and tobacco: Starita and Laura arms in investments Foundation Follow Alliance Alliance philanthropy practitioners worldwide. for debate news, thinking, and peer exchange among aspace providing blog A daily, philanthropy free-to-view • •  •  •  Term limits are great for foundations for great are limits Term Choi Helena Ma¯ori hello decolonizing meddling; development crown Goodbye Funders for Indigenous Peoples Rucha Chitnis Anne Burghardt of letting go letting power of the – funding Participatory Robert Bosch Foundation Latest Alliance from online investigation

, Hewlett Foundation Foundation Hewlett , , International ,

To see if you are eligible: are you if see To and the and access unlimited to all content digital full as well as issue new every Yourworldwide. includes subscription to those working in over 140 countries Alliance

[email protected] alliancemagazine.org/freesubs

Free digital subscriptions

Alliance •  • •  • offers free digital subscriptions free subscriptions digital offers Hilary Hilary Pearson in the philanthropic sector philanthropic the in diversity inclusive more a Towards US Council on Foundations Floyd Mills 2017: Canada’s year? Philanthropic Foundations Canada highlights archive. ,

,

Vanuatu. Pacific island of the from Hui Pacific for Indigenous Peoples International Funders delegates of the Below: Indigenous 13 14 15

Adessium is an endowed foundation in the Netherlands, established in 2005 by commodities trader Gerard van Vliet and his family. Today, it spends Deep approximately €18 million annually on programmes including marine conservation and efforts to promote open and democratic societies. ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 It is one of the ‘dark horses’ of European philanthropy, avoiding attention and declining all requests to be Philanthropy Opposite: Ocean interviewed. Gerard’s interview with Alliance conservation is high magazine is his first for any publication. on the foundation’s Interview: agenda. Photo: Sebastia Torrents. Together with his son, Rogier van Vliet, and managing Below: Rogier van director, Rogier van der Weerd, he talked to Alliance Vliet, chair (left) and Adessium editor, Charles Keidan, about how Adessium came Rogier van der Weerd, managing director. into being and, a decade on, where this remarkable Photo: Annet Foundation philanthropic journey has taken them. Neijmeijer.

Gerard van Vliet (GvV) is founder, Rogier are living here in Holland, let’s look around the van Vliet (RvV) is chair, and Rogier van der corner at what we can do here as well. So in the Weerd (RvdW) is managing director of the end, we became involved in a combination of Adessium Foundation. social and environmental issues, working towards a ‘balanced society’. I understand your business success was in asset management but what was the Did running a very successful business business? together influence your thinking about how GvV: My background started in cash your philanthropic work would develop? commodity trading, in the grain and oil RvV: ‘Keep your options open’ is a typical seeds sector. In 1987 I initiated a Commodity trader way of thinking and that’s what we did Trading Advisor company (CTA) which in the early stages while we were trying to developed into quite a successful business. figure out what the foundation was going to In 2002 I sold this company. become. It was difficult and good at the same time. You need a focus to give you direction, And that was the basis for the foundation? but on the other hand keeping our options GvV: When we decided as a family to sell, open gave us the tools to look outside the box we realized that we would have a lot of extra and try to understand what the landscape looks money to manage and why would we want like. There are similarities between asset to do that when we already had more than enough? So it was a philosophical decision, and we thought ‘why don’t we use it – not for ourselves but to try to convert it into something positive for the community and the world in which we live?’. RvV: It was your idea, it was your very strong belief at the time that it would be good to make sure that the money is being used for common good and basically we all agreed as a family that it was a great idea. GvV: What we didn’t realize was how daring a decision it was, because actually, though you have a general idea, you start from scratch and you start without focus. What was that general idea? GvV: In the early stages, our ideas diverged. Rogier instinctively went for protecting nature. I am interested in that, too, but I also had an inclination towards social issues. I thought: we Analysis & Opinion 16 17

management and philanthropy. It’s the RvV: Especially if you have a public profile, it fact that it’s an asset allocation business, makes sense. We didn’t have a public profile an allocation of money, whether it’s asset and we didn’t want one, although maybe we managers or whether its beneficiaries. In are creating one through the years because both cases it’s about spreading risks, but of what Adessium has achieved. also doing due diligence on your partner, Are you now willing to be more public, and making sure you understand their at least with Alliance’s readership of business and their identity. I made use of philanthropy practitioners, because ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 that experience in the asset management you’re now more confident about your industry in building the foundation from philanthropy? scratch. GvV: In 2007, we hired professional staff, GvV: Rogier once said: ‘To give away money, including Pieter Stemerding as the first costs money’. If you want to do it seriously, managing director – that was a defining you have to do due diligence. You need moment. At one meeting, Pieter said: ‘We to understand the substance behind need a strategic framework’. It wasn’t my well-intended initiatives and good stories. favourite phrase at the time, but he was right. He helped us through the process Many foundations bear the name of the of developing that framework. It initially family who have created them. But your had four programme directions, which foundation has a Latin origin – Adessium – we have recently reduced to three, which to bring into being. How did that choice have been fairly consistent since the of name occur? framework developed. GvV: Especially in the first few years, we wanted to stay anonymous so it didn’t make How did the programmatic areas develop? sense to put our name on the foundation. One GvV: You have philosophical questions of our colleagues came up with the name. apart from practical questions. For It is a conjugation of the Latin words ad-esse example, in the very early days, we which means to give, to participate, and to supported a project to train two assistance help, so it felt like a good starting point. dogs to help blind people. In the end, we spent €60,000, and, for the same amount, So the name embodied something about we could have supported 200 kids in how the foundation was going to be? Africa. It’s an allocation question. What Above: Rogier van The three broad areas you arrived at are Ten years on, what are you most proud of? GvV: Yes, I think so. do you want to optimize? Is it the number Vliet and Rogier people and nature, public interest, which RvV: I’m most proud of us doing it together, as van der Weerd in of people you support, is it the longevity, conversation with includes the investigative journalism work, a family, with governing bodies and of course Why did you want to remain anonymous is it the impact of what you’re doing over Adessium’s founder and social initiatives. How did you arrive at as a professional team. I think we’ve found a and why has that changed? a longer period of time? Gerard van Vliet, those three? way to accept each other’s values and find RvV: It was never our intention or wish to and Alliance editor, RvV: It’s crafting, crafting, crafting and of common interests between us. Charles Keidan. be in the public eye; we wanted the cause course a lot of discussions between us, the Photo: Annet Has having professional staff helped or and work we enabled to be at the forefront. professional team and the outside world of Neijmeijer – hindered in terms of giving you the ability to However, as we developed the foundation Jesse Kraal. experts and practitioners. We changed names translate discussions into concrete plans? and started funding bigger projects that many times, but the fascinating thing is while RvV: It’s been instrumental. I think it was a way were becoming very visible, like the ECSP I’m very proud that we’ve managed doing it, you figure out there are some to create a middle man between father and (Erasmus Centre for Strategic Philanthropy), common threads. They may not be strongly to get to a point where – although we son. It also allowed us to develop a professional we found that being anonymous was not articulated at first, but they are there and point of view as a foundation, not only an really possible. are still relatively young – we are now become clearer as our thinking and practice emotional point of view. matures. GvV: Once you put information in the public an established and relevant player, Rogier [van der Weerd], you’ve been with the domain you cannot undo it, so we have to making optimal responsible use of the And they come from your values? And your foundation since 2009 and, for the last year, be careful. We’ve had regular requests for interpretation of those values in the form of independence and degrees of freedom you’ve been managing director. You receive interviews and we’ve always said no up to the programmes you’ve developed? guidance from the family, but you’re tasked now. One of the reasons why the foundation you have as a foundation. RvV: Yes. That’s basically how we got to this with translating that into philanthropic is not named after our family is that apart point today. And how did you decide those questions? action. How have you found that process? from the important considerations Rogier GvV: For me, the basic question is: what is RvdW: I joined in 2009 when a more structured RvdW: I think the fact that it has been an mentions, our ego does not need it. philanthropy about? My answer is improving approach was starting to get defined. The evolution, and that there has been a deep You’d rather focus on the work that your the quality of life, which is hard to values behind Adessium and the objectives we and well informed internal debate about grantees can achieve? mathematically ground. So helping two pursue – to safeguard a just society, this notion the direction we are taking, have been very GvV: Exactly. It’s important that we have the people with dogs might be as valuable as of public integrity, to support marginalized valuable. I’m very proud that we’ve managed conviction that we are doing the right thing helping 200 kids in Africa. In the end, it’s a groups in our society – those things were to get to a point where – although we are in a professional way. We do it with a specific matter of personal choice and what topics already there in the early days. But also the still relatively young – we are now an focus and for specific objectives. But at the relate to you strongly as a philanthropist. approach to philanthropy, and the decision to established and relevant player, making same time, I don’t think there’s anything That said, appreciation of the social impact be an engaged funder, interested in social optimal responsible use of the independence wrong in people giving their own name to of our grantmaking has become an change and in strengthening the philanthropic and degrees of freedom you have as a a foundation. important part of our approach. sector, were developed very early on. foundation. ANALYSIS & OPINION 18 19

Two areas where you are relevant right to improve given the complexity of now is your work on nature and the international conventions and the environment, which is suffering fragmented attention for oceans in the UN degradation, and your work on public system. An impulse was needed to create interest journalism. How did your interest momentum for change. In collaboration in those areas come about and what with others – the Pew Charitable Trusts, impact does Adessium hope to have? Oak Foundation and others – we founded RvV: To take the environment, I’ve always a Global Ocean Commission, as an

ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 had an interest in wildlife and nature, but independent body that could direct that was just a starting point. When our attention to the issue and suggest priority interest began to develop, we went on an steps to be taken to improve the situation. exploratory path through established Years later, we can look back and say that It can be hard to get the message international NGOs like the World Wildlife this effort contributed to the fact that there Fund, but were also intrigued by innovative now is a Sustainable Development Goal across that the intention behind it is to approaches to conservation such as African on the Ocean (SDG 14). And there are Parks. Based on an article on overfishing, negotiations presently going on at the UN we started looking into that topic too. to make it possible to protect certain critical strengthen due democratic process, This became a broader theme about ocean areas beyond national jurisdiction. I agree governance, and then plastic pollution in we need to be humble, and we need to oceans. It’s all a development. You start at acknowledge the strong effort of many other without pushing particular private or one point and end up addressing other parts groups, but I think this joint and concerted within the same area and aim for a portfolio effort made a real difference. personal interests. of initiatives that can reinforce each other. GvV: An ongoing concern is, or should be, Do you feel you are making progress? are we addressing the most important needs RvdW: That goes straight to the core of Do you think that media scrutiny should RvV: We always take the humble view of the society we live in, or are we doing the public interest programme. We don’t also be applied to philanthropy because that although it’s a lot of money, the yearly hobby projects? It’s not cut in stone that take political positions and push groups philanthropists are increasingly important budget is still small considering what you what we are doing now we should be doing to advocate them. The key concept of the players in public life? would really need to make big changes. in ten years’ time. We don’t aspire to be an programme is to enable a fair, well-informed RvV: What we are trying to achieve basically But I think the smart thing to do is to try to advocacy or campaigning group ourselves and multi-sided process to get to legitimate is greater public good. I think it is fine if that understand the root cause of the issue and and prefer to take a constructive approach. democratic decisions. And of course, it is challenged now and then, because if you how we can change it. You can clean up a We do not want to associate ourselves with connects very logically with the notion of become too big or institutionalized, there is beach for example, which is very visible, people throwing tomatoes and stones, but funding investigative journalism. always the possibility of misuse of power. but maybe, say, waste management in some with people who analyse problems, find a Below: ICIJ Swiss Leaks team meeting countries is really badly organized, or harmful root cause, and look at ways we could in Paris. Photo by How did your investigative journalism RvdW: I think it’s inevitable and I think it’s a use of plastics is not addressed by good contribute to solving them. ICIJ. work come about? good thing. We experience this also given that policy – these are really the root causes of GvV: Very early on, in 2008, we saw the we’re a relatively influential player in funding waste ending up in oceans. potential of the International Consortium civil society organizations in Brussels or media of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ). We began and journalism organizations. We’re sometimes So would you try then to influence to support it but we have no say about the asked: ‘why do you do that’? There is a feeling governments and policies? content. A very important element of a free that there must be a hidden agenda. And it’s RvV: Yes, exactly, you need to get the democratic society is that we are not misled quite interesting that it can be hard to get the right drivers for change. Sometimes it is with information. As continental Europeans, message across that the intention behind it is governments, sometimes it is people we have the feeling that the UK was misled to strengthen due democratic process, without and behaviour. You try to find the right on the question of Brexit, and it wasn’t a pushing particular private or personal organizations in the right position to two-sided debate. But you cannot push the interests. But you need to be crystal clear press for change. genie back in the bottle. about this, and translate that principle into all RvdW: To me, what’s very important is the aspects of how you operate. For instance, we RvdW: I think this topic is also very defining willingness to be curious and to be open to require journalism organizations to protect of who we are as a foundation. It took quite looking for systemic solutions. Often, these their editorial independence contractually. We some faith and commitment to fund ICIJ. The are high-risk, high-impact initiatives. We select groups based on the highest standards organization was underfunded at the time but have seen some tremendous successes over of journalistic integrity and method, etc. had a huge potential. But such a potential you the past ten years, but we certainly have also cannot expect to fulfil in one or two years. We GvV: In the end, everything we support is supported initiatives that have failed. I think provided long-term funding – even through without self-interest and, for me, that is what you have to accept that you can’t have a difficult phases in its development – and can philanthropy should be. 100 per cent success rate. If you do, you do this because we do our due diligence, invest may not be pushing hard enough for Not all philanthropists may be acting in trusting relationships and bring in external meaningful change. on your broad notion of the public good, evaluation when relevant. With iterations and they may have a more specific view Take the example of ocean conservation. cycles of ever stronger investigations, the of the world. It became clear to us when we were dividends were paid in the form of the Panama RvdW: That’s why I think it’s a good thing researching ocean governance that the way and Paradise Papers – some of the largest global for journalism to try to make clear the different international waters are governed is highly investigative reporting projects ever – and other forms and intentions behind philanthropy. problematic, but it’s also extremely difficult major investigations. ANALYSIS & OPINION 20 ANALYSIS & OPINION ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 spent as wisely as possible. You have to build build to have You possible. as and wisely as invested spent protected, be to is endowment remain important, because in the end an through the foundation. Checks and balances and not aligned create a little kingdom place? first the GvV: in it the enabled to that power and society wealth that about is redistributing philanthropy and power wealth and accumulate to able you – been have power of question a as it see Some to come to a philosophical conclusion. too It’s will future. they the in needs have the than important more are GvV: achievement. great a is that then are you if able to and be relevant in the years to die come, that let to shame a seems who we are and what we are totrying do, it 15 years to create a position where we know then, but it’s for so been us difficult over thelast ten society, to into money your putting down is spending a very wayinteresting of RvV: long-term problems? with deal to able being from you about spending down? Or think would that you prevent Do give? you but much how money your give you in where of just not terms that about think also you Do world? the for benefit a into grants the giving are we translate really and relevant most on it How entirely? can we be most effective, of problems the world we– shouldn’t focus which is one of actually the most important We are pollution combat plastic helping for room be I Sometimes our about wonder doubt. focus. always should there and other be things will there but time, years’ ten in relevant today consider may also be relevant stay we and Some of relevant. professional what we that is wish my But is years impossible. ten but difficult, is month one GvV: years? ten next the in you that take does where – doing you’re what more visible, you’ve got become more clarity about you’ve journalism, interest and public conservation very of significantphilanthropy in ocean foundations the laid You’ve to to come aconclusion. havewill It’s the in too future. philosophical thanare the more they important needs have the that people needs nowMaybe

ahead looking – investments in like It’s The challenge is to keep all the interests interests the all keep to is challenge The On the one hand, I totally agree that that agree totally I hand, one the On Maybe the needs that people have now now have people that needs the Maybe

now and then that what you’re doing feels doing good. you’re what that then and now to life, in what continue you’re is doing, confirmation need you what and good feels It even there, and it though takes a towhile sometimes see it. here progress see and that’, you and can say ‘we or initiated doing, that’ ‘we concluded is team the what time to time if but it’s you distance, satisfying read from giving. to We have kept purposely that attached at some emotion the also is there GvV: relevant. remain we ensure and tocontinue complacency, push the envelope your we answer: toneed avoid the trap of be in ten but years, I very much agree with invaluable be indefinitely, toI’veme. to no idea where we’ll going that’s and the current, against go to risks, take to us allows This it is because critical independence. that one of which is has characteristics, unique vehicle a is created been has what ever be kept going for its own sake. But RvdW: to you to faithful remain the follow idea. who those on dependent are into the the structure right incentives but you For a family involved in philanthropy, philanthropy, in involved family a For I don’t think an institution should should institution an think don’t I

Photo: iStock. iStock. Photo: on the beach. up washed and debris Above: Plastics Plastics

21 22 23 Does

ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 philanthropy need a new story?

Shifting sands Conventional notions of ‘donor’ and for philanthropy? ‘beneficiary’ are being challenged with Photo: Felix’s Endless Journey the idea that ‘no-one is too poor to give and no-one too rich to receive’.

Oksana Oracheva is general time. A universal finding from a director of Vladimir Potanin funding like sadak or zakat whether seeing many different types that Halima Mahomed notes that the review of the Olga Alexeeva Prize1 Foundation. in Indonesia or many Arab countries’. don’t fit established categories. ‘traditional narrative on philanthropy by the Vladimir Potanin Foundation Although the number of foundations is that the rich give to the poor, that [email protected] is that the prize has stimulated a This flowering is producing new continues to grow worldwide, the it happens primarily through formal new narrative of philanthropy organizational forms. The key text Barry Knight is adviser to the European Foundation Centre (EFC) institutions, that it is equated with based on the experience of here is Lester Salamon’s New Global Fund for Community now talks about ‘institutional money and that the poor are passive pioneers in emerging market frontiers of philanthropy. Salamon Foundations. philanthropy’ rather than recipients’. The reality of Africa, economies. There is a wealth of points to ‘a massive explosion in the ‘foundations’ because of the irregular she says, ‘is very different, but [email protected] new approaches that could change instruments and institutions being nature of the field. Moreover, since in the absence of an organized the way that we think about deployed to mobilize private the cultural norms of the US philanthropy voice, this philanthropy. resources. Where earlier such institutions do not apply in Europe, Anglo-American narrative was The Anglo-American language of philanthropy support was limited to charitable The flowering of philanthropy the EFC has adopted an empirical transferred and applied to how we gifts, a bewildering array of new can’t fully express the changing face of the sector In the 2017 Barry Gaberman approach to studying the field using understand philanthropy on the instruments and institutions has Lecture, given at each WINGS a ‘spectrum of philanthropy’. This African continent’. There is a rich surfaced – loans, loan guarantees, quiet revolution is under way Try the following experiment. Type Forum, Atallah Kuttab described involves looking at institutional tradition of what philanthropy writer private equity, barter arrangements, in philanthropy. There is any search term containing the ‘flowering’ of philanthropy. He philanthropy through the lens of six and researcher Alan Fowler has social stock exchanges, bonds, Agrowth in unexpected places, ‘philanthropy’ into your search noted the ‘revival and new models variables: public good, resources, called ‘gifting’ based on cultural secondary markets, investment a proliferation of new organizational engine. The chances are that the evolving in many regions’ with use of assets, self-governance, traditions such as ubuntu. Africans funds, and many more’. This adds to forms, increased scepticism about first 20 results will come from ‘social businesses, crowdfunding, practices and behaviours, and are now developing a narrative of the staple agencies of philanthropy the Anglo-American model, and a Britain or America. This is because and community philanthropy’ relevance. philanthropy that they can call their (including foundations, giving circles, fine balance between large the language of philanthropy is coming to the fore, together with own. At the 20th anniversary community funds and giving days). Cultural adaptations opportunities and unprecedented dominated by an Anglo-American ‘better understanding of local celebration of Kenya Community The desire to go beyond US models threats. These trends point in one paradigm. However, global trends philanthropy including individual, At the same time, there is growing Development Foundation, chief is not confined to Europe. In direction: the need for a new suggest that this is set to change family and corporate philanthropy’, hybridity among traditional executive Janet Mawiyoo called for Reframing African philanthropy, narrative for philanthropy. and, for many people, it is high and innovation in ‘faith-based philanthropic institutions. We are a new people-led paradigm called ANALYSIS & OPINION 24 ANALYSIS & OPINION ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 Philanthropy is no longer the of preserve the but rich, is the fastest longer no is Philanthropy study of companion Russia. froma emerging is picture and crowdsourcing, and a similar is the growth of retail philanthropy withdrawal of money external the alongside story big the shows and Peace (PSJP) that for for Philanthropy Justice Social Hartnell Caroline by India A study of in philanthropy is also evident in other places. ofphilanthropy definitions northern beyond move to desire The the behind rest of the lagging world. Africa sub-Saharan keep that corruption have to combined of Africa a rid triad of to aid, charity, and development’ ‘durable configuration. configuration. differences that hang together in a historical, cultural and technological multiple narratives based on economic, story,a single rather for but searching in Perhaps the answer for lies not looking in Takeshi Takeshi Kuboki eclipsed? Photo: narrative be old the Will

of what is occurring. the world and the complexity in philanthropy of many parts of the lack of good data about a is This difficult question both story? because this understanding for framework a find we do Philanthropy in December 2016. on Summit Community launched at the Johannesburg the #ShiftThePower campaign deal in witness philanthropy: new a for call south global the coming from The messages too rich no-one to receive’. and give to poor too is ‘no-one with the challenged idea that and ‘beneficiary’ are being Conventional class. notions of ‘donor’ middle the among growing story. How new a needs philanthropy suggest that WINGS, at way under with research together examples, These story new a need We

the the poor. weIn addition, need the stereotypes down about giving among breaking is philanthropy involved, and the rise of community middle classes are increasingly approaches and instruments, the apply a living donors of variety the rich are no either,guide because The of giving habits conclusions. meaningful yield to great too is the variation between foundations it is just one form many among and is foundation too limiting because the Studying of behaviour the look in one place for the answers. Given the complexity, we cannot philanthropies to be more creative creative more be to philanthropies legal restrictions are forcing the 2017 at Grantmakers’ East out Forum, pointed Salole Gerry since, as EFC chief executive ‘closing may space’ be a misnomer However,with suspicion. the term action foreign regard increasingly societies those where in the governments aid external providing look at the to role of in philanthropy us forcing is society civil ‘closing for space’ The so-called countries. within individual organized is philanthropy how the trends that story of affect to be aware of geopolitical

values, such as freedom, dignity dignity such as values, freedom, be transparent and fluid. While organizational arrangements must and adaptive. At the time, same to need be mutually connected, responsive interventions philanthropic To be in tune with the age, New ways of working production line. the has replaced Co-creation involved. is who and is what delivered choosing in partners are active funded and funders both which in web of an interconnected networks peer through work now people that with technology, mean modern in growing the combined field, egalitarianism The beneficiaries. passive standardized goods and services for and control that processes produce using command structure top-down century. involveSuch models a of models the organizational last ‘Fordist’ the from derives still the about value of philanthropy And yet, much of the current thinking many forces that its will use. affect of the context of the and gift the understanding full a is there unless positive make outcomes little sense philanthropic gifts through to that logic models trace simple you face. It follows that linear simple as least as nuanced the problems of that repertoire is responses a at have to need you you, at throws of diversity the problems world that to with deal properly the Law of Requisite Variety. This states who in up came the with 1950s the cyberneticist, early an Ashby, Ross derives from approach the work of the sum of This discrete actions. interconnected, rather than merely as of behaviour part a field that is individual organizations, actions and This seeing entails ecosystem. as philanthropy of part an view to need we that means Suchin complexity a configuration. that hang together differences cultural and technological based on narratives economic, historical, multiple for searching rather in but story, single a for looking in not lies answer the Perhaps power of within philanthropy countries. the harnessing on emphasis to with space’ ‘opening a greater Such may creativity in the end lead about new forms and instruments.

underlying complex problems. tomeans search for solutions to the a with those itfunds, partnership in but provide to not aid an just those need in That means philanthropic institutions become a and become not partner just an to be creative. This that means it can money gives a philanthropy licence the use of objects, private charitable within the law with and complies its So other long actors. as it stays enjoys with philanthropy compared part of it lies in that but the freedoms unique question, this to answer ecosystem? there Again, is no single of contribution in philanthropy the distinctive the is what So A distinctive contribution across the 1500 country. the initiative and more organized than joined partners 900 than more 2016, in Russia in year inaugural In its diverse together partners. bringing and countries, continents for example, Tuesday, is spreading quickly across Giving traction. gaining There are clear signs of this approach also sharing credit for achievements. but and other resources, financial towards and together putting goals, common working only not entails This are players. the not dominant necessarily but play to role a have they where as themselves of part a landscape requires that philanthropies see way to substitute the state, but also philanthropy that private giving is a view traditional of US 20th century only exposes the of limitations the identity crisis. identity in in the Rockefeller writing Foundation, of president former the Rodin, has created is what needed, Judith givers and socially-minded business social entrepreneurs, individual multilateral funders, governments, a that, instead, mixed economy of and environmental problems and has too little money to solve social The that recognition philanthropy contexts. in and adjusted different tested be must else everything and solidarity, may be timeless, Huffington Post Huffington 2 This perspective not not perspective This , called an an called ,

countries. countries. emerging market philanthropy in promote to most done have who individuals annually and rewards Foundation is held Philanthropy Bridge the up set who Alexeeva Olga late the of honour in 1 and its philanthropy success. are of principles future the underlying relationships equal and just on for respect diversity, and trust, multi-actor engagement based Collaboration, partnerships, making philanthropy more effective. Empowering beneficiaries is key to field-builder. a like more and objectives like an with institution narrow relinquishing means control, thinking less therefore strategic being of balance equal power’. of Part an were there if as behaved they Instead dynamic. power funder-grantee typical by affected less much were revenues earned and/or significant proportion of unrestricted, multi-year grant support who had a of large proportion shifting systems as well as ‘recipient’ and ‘donor’ of of conventional definitions review the requires This way. creative a in them implement and find to spark a can be but answers the all have to need problems. Philanthropy does not solutions to the underlying complex those it a tofunds, means search for those in with but need in partnership provide institutions not just an aid to innovation. That means philanthropic with new and experiment bring models in ideas, good pilot to risks public sector, philanthropy can take free from of the constraints the Being financially independent and on together complex social issues. actors, multiple including the state, in working bridge can It sense. narrow or provider in aid-giver service a The Prize founded founded Prize The

shows that ‘grantees ‘grantees that shows solutions toward toward solutions Advisors Philanthropy by Rockefeller report 2017 A between them. relationships power-based of traditional com/RodinSoP impact how to maximize state of philanthropy: 2 The The (2014) J. Rodin

http://tinyurl.

Scaling

25

27 What is philanthropy infrastructure for?

Andrew Milner is associate editor of Alliance. [email protected]

As infrastructure reaches a crossroads, should it be leading or serving the field?

he featured topic of the June The Brookings Institute estimates the 2018 issue of Alliance will be global middle class may swell by Tthe evolution of philanthropy 2.4 billion people globally by 2030 infrastructure – the organizations and that their spending could underpinning philanthropy almost double from $34 trillion to worldwide. As the world changes, $64 trillion over the same period. how can infrastructure organizations These developments create huge help philanthropy navigate and keep opportunities for philanthropy, but it pace with that change? Ahead of our remains to be seen how well the field infrastructure issue, we talk to a few is positioned to exploit them. protagonists in the debate and sketch infrastructure body, WINGS, out the likely ground to be covered. Not enough infrastructure where suggests that infrastructure will What will be the effect of digital it is needed… have to be built from scratch. technology? How will infrastructure Growth in philanthropy is likely to be In most of the low- and middle- respond to the growth of informal focused on emerging economies so income countries featured giving movements? And in the this is where infrastructure is most in the CAF report, infrastructure super-information age, is the old needed, according to the CAF report.1 is thin on the ground. WINGS also model (of member services and In addition to educating donors and notes that North America absorbs an annual conference) dying? advocating for straightforward tax a whopping 80 per cent of current incentives, the report also urges aid In the face of it, the news expenditure on infrastructure. It agencies exiting a country to aim to for philanthropy is good. According concludes that infrastructure is leave in place an ‘enabling legal to a recent CAF report1, giving lacking where it is most needed. environment… and a philanthropy potential is likely to expand infrastructure and charity support ….and roles ill-defined elsewhere prodigiously over the next dozen bodies that can continue this work’. In some places, though, it’s almost years, especially in the global south. A 2017 report2 by global philanthropy superabundant. Is there overlap ANALYSIS & OPINION 28 29

or over-supply? Certainly, the external environment, what ‘they [infrastructure organizations] abundance can breed confusion, are the dangers and threats to the know that their survival depends even among those in the know. industry, who is going to help chief on keeping those foundations Gerry Salole, CEO of the European executives and boards navigate happy, which means that they’re Foundation Centre, cites the case the next set of issues?’ not as good at understanding what of a donor who asked him where their role to their members is’. Chertok and Bellegy agree and Ariadne fits in. ‘Comparing a note the need for infrastructure He sees therefore a real need ‘to network that’s focused on a organizations to move from figure out who is doing what’ and ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 specific type of foundation around ‘service model to leadership/ to ‘describe and typologize’ the human rights and social justice like activist model… We need various infrastructure bodies in Ariadne and an institution like ours champions and thought leaders terms of their roles – those that [EFC] which accepts the generality to foresee the common future are issue-based, ‘trying to build of foundations means that even for the philanthropic space and momentum, or that are pioneering donors are getting confused. But defend this future from particular ways of working like there’s a real difference between external threats’. EVPA (European Venture the scale, the focus and the role Philanthropy Association)’. Even of these institutions,’ he explains. However, this raises the question where infrastructure is scarce, this of the relationship of infrastructure Leading or following? can be an issue. For example, ‘there organizations, particularly network Masha Chertok of CAF Russia and are two networks in Africa that organizations, to their members. a member of the WINGS board, are trying to develop at the same It’s a complex one. Some support and Benjamin Bellegy, executive time… the African Philanthropy organizations are clearly service director of WINGS, are convening Forum… and the African providers. It’s their whole raison an international meeting of funders Philanthropy Network. Is there any d’être – consultants, advisers, etc. of infrastructure in early 2018.3 attempt externally to understand You pay them to do something They note both the external what the difference is between and they do it. With membership and internal changes affecting them, who their members are?’ networks or organizations, it’s philanthropy: the rapid growth less clear-cut. While network Does infrastructure have what of institutional philanthropy and organizations do get locked into it takes? the even faster growth of its the idea of service provision to How prominent a role can non-institutional counterpart justify members’ dues and their infrastructure play? ‘There is in emerging markets; the move own existence, this is seldom the an expectation that the towards giving domestic actors main reason for joining them and infrastructure doesn’t become and private resources a greater it may well lead down a false trail. too visible and when it pushes too role in development; and increased Are infrastructure organizations As Salole notes, most infrastructure hard, thinks it’s in charge, tries to pressure to make a greater impact equipped to play that leadership organizations are paid for by a command, I think it can get into on the major problems of the handful of funders who set store trouble,’ says Salole. Before that, role? Do they have or can they world. Institutional philanthropy by it. ‘It’s less “you give me this there is another question to ask: afford to buy the necessary skills? will have to adapt and its service”, more “I believe in the given that their sources of supply infrastructure will have to adapt sector and that it’s important for are scarce and it’s a perennial with it. Or is this to mis-state the infrastructure to exist”.’ He thinks complaint that they are 1 Laying the Fixed or fluid forum where the diverse elements nature of the relationship? Should it’s dangerous to see funding as under-resourced, are infrastructure groundwork for global Chertok and Bellegy would like to of the system could come together it not be that infrastructure senses giving, CAF, August paying for a service, since it leads organizations equipped to play see the adaptation of infrastructure to represent their views to each or maps the shape of the change 2017. http://tinyurl. away from the idea that what that leadership role? Do they have organizations to more informal means other, in other words, some and then leads philanthropy’s com/CAFGroundwork infrastructure organizations should or can they afford to buy the of giving and to the increasing meta-infrastructure body? adaptation to it? All three 2 Infrastructure be providing is ‘vision and creativity, necessary skills? If they were to convergence of philanthropy with observers think so. What in focus: a new Behind the digital curve understanding of the sector’. represent philanthropy in any global picture of other kinds of social investment. supporters of infrastructure are Stanford visiting scholar and data cross-sector forum, would they organizations serving This would mean a corresponding asking, thinks Salole, is ‘who is Reliance on the few ‘believers’ can expert, Lucy Bernholz, draws have the resources to sustain such philanthropy, widening of the definition of looking at the trends, who has got also exacerbate the problem of February 2017. attention to another looming a role and be credible in it? infrastructure. They suggest, for their eye on what’s happening in identity because, argues Salole, http://tinyurl.com/ problem: ‘Philanthropy and civil InfrastructureInFocus example, that groups like fundraisers’ society are dependent on digital associations should be covered by 3 The meeting infrastructure in ways that the the term. It’s important, they argue, will take place in organizational infrastructure bodies Barcelona, from ‘to adopt a view of infrastructure that don’t fully attend to,’ she claims. This 26-27 March 2018. reflects the growing complexity and dependence allows the corporations interconnectedness of the field… we who own the digital sphere and the should learn to think of it as an governments who scrutinize it to ecosystem rather than a number of exercise greater control over civil organizations working in silos’. Many North America absorbs a society. ‘If we don’t take on these would agree. But how would that issues head-on we will continue to be ecosystem function? Would it be a amazed at the rates of civil society whopping 80 per cent of current ‘natural’ system that regulates itself, or closure and the ways in which that one that requires oversight, with some ANALYSIS & OPINION expenditure on infrastructure. 30 31

is facilitated by the connection civil society and philanthropy to organizations can only go so far,’ to government control… and the understand the constraints of their feels Salole. ‘In the end, I don’t norms of a handful of tech giants current – or aspirational – digital believe there is a real substitute yet based in either the US or China.’ environments’. for people having an opportunity to exchange good practice on a But there is an opportunity as well It’s hard to read the tealeaves face-to-face basis.’ as a threat. The digitization of data online affords greater reach – and to a According to Salole, the funders What people like most about EFC, different audience – and therefore of infrastructure ‘are expecting he says, is the Annual General ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 greater potential resources for small flexible entities’ to help them Assembly. ‘They develop the peers philanthropy. navigate emerging problems. they can run ideas against, that’s But the idea of a network without where they find support when they Bernholz sees therefore a physical base, which conducts have difficult decisions to make, ‘a common need for infrastructure operations largely online and has it’s where they read the tealeaves organizations that can advocate for only a skeleton staff, would be together and, so far, long-distance and educate about the need for easy to data doesn’t substitute for it.’ oversell (it Some questions need to be should be continually asked because the stressed answer changes. Perhaps the that most one underlying them all for infrastructure philanthropy infrastructure is how organizations it can strike a balance between The digitization of data affords greater are ‘lean’ to leading and serving philanthropy reach – and to a different audience – begin with). and whether, at times, there is any ‘Leanness and therefore greater potential distinction between the two. Watch and virtual resources for philanthropy. this space. Drumaboy ANALYSIS & OPINION 32 33 ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017

Philanthropy and the media The worlds of philanthropy and media are colliding. Both sides have their work cut out to promote journalism in the public interest, build new models and restore trust. The wellbeing of civil society will depend on their success. Special feature Special 34 35 Guest Editor Miguel Castro

ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 Overview The pursuit of mutually assured survival

Miguel Castro is senior officer, global media partnerships, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. [email protected]

Philanthropy and media need each other. Working together can really make a difference in realizing our missions

hy are the worlds of philanthropy Meanwhile, journalism today has many journalism and real-time analytics, including social listening and the media still so far apart? different faces and is delivered by many philanthropy – the process of monitoring digital WWhat could and should be done to different types of organizations. News need to contend conversations to understand what individuals bring them together and realize the promise provision and storytelling is now, as much as …this latest political upheaval with: hundreds are saying about a topic. Regrettably, neither of a reciprocal relationship? In this special ever before, committed to the betterment of across the world has brought to of websites philanthropy nor the media have been ready feature, we look at the space where these the audiences it serves. But this is not new. light not just how unprepared routinely spread or able to combat these sophisticated tools. two worlds collide, and what happens as Ralph Waldo Emerson, a co-founder of misinformation At least, not yet. a result. I argue that now, more than ever, The Atlantic 160 years ago, established philanthropies were, how reactive, and automated Why did we not see it coming and prepare philanthropy and the media don’t just need the mission of the organization as to ‘bring how little we knew about these accounts known more for it? Should the priorities of to work more effectively together, they about equality for all people’, an ideal as ‘social bots’ possible scenarios. But journalism philanthropists and their foundations, actually need each other to fulfil their cited by Powell Jobs in her acquisition was also taken by surprise. are being respective missions. of The Atlantic. programmed to spread fake news. Political processes have Today, the definitions of both philanthropy But the context has changed. been damaged such as the peace accord and media are being stretched. For example, Political and social events happening referendum in Colombia, and elections in the is the purchase of The Washington Post by across the world over the last two years Netherlands, France, and the US. Meanwhile, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos an exercise in have shaken our world. As Bruce Sievers media manipulation is contributing to the philanthropy? For most people, it would be a and Patrice Schneider argue in these pages shrinking of Eastern Europe’s democratic clear no. However, it did save the publication (p52), ‘civil society’s information base, its space, the fomenting of the far right in from vanishing. Is the acquisition of a norms and its operating mechanisms’ are Germany, as well as fuelling conflict in Syria, dominating stake in The Atlantic by Laurene under attack, presenting ‘an existential threat Yemen, Myanmar, Turkey, and shocks such as Left: Powell Jobs and her company, the Emerson Fake to democracy’. If we had produced this Brexit or the constitutional crisis in Spain. Collective, an act of philanthropy? They news can special feature two years ago, the arguments argue it is. All of these events are heavily influenced by look like would be different: consider today what both the real cyber-politics operating in real time, with SPECIAL FEATURE: OVERVIEW FEATURE: SPECIAL thing… 36 37 like, how it is created, what it does, and to what However, philanthropies are pushed and effect. On top of that, a potentially even bigger push themselves in many directions. There are wave of disruption – anchored in artificial many urgent social needs, beyond confronting intelligence, robotics, cognitive computing, failing trust and growing misinformation. For and big data – is under way. The most example, foundations play important roles noticeable casualty of this transformation is the in funding media to maintain and deepen funding model. Many in the industry were left coverage of particular causes such as climate feeling that they have no option but to resort change, resilience and urbanization, global to ‘clickbait’ to pursue advertising money, but ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 health, and humanitarian assistance, among advertising money wasn’t always there. many others. Second, and more importantly, the media But foundations need to develop more industry lost its ‘north star’ in pursuit of its own cohesive funding strategies. As James Deane survival. The survival of the industry took notes, philanthropies have ‘different, precedence over the mission of the industry to sometimes competing philosophies, world provide a service to society. ‘There is no such views, results frameworks and an unusual thing as the news industry anymore’, laments degree of faddism and inconsistency’. This is Emily Bell in a report on Post-Industrial a fair charge: philanthropy has not organized Journalism published by the Tow Centre for itself with the coherence and at the pace it Digital Journalism at Columbia University. needs to confront the big problems noted above. Numerous efforts have been made, While this may be over-stating the decline, there but are still a work in progress. These include is widespread agreement that a continuous leading philanthropies organized around disruption of the media industry has resulted in different affinity groups focusing on a particular a market failure for public interest journalism cause or geography, for example, or initiatives and specifically news and information on the such as Media Impact Funders in the US and issues that were underreported at the best of the Journalism Funders Forum in Europe. times, and rarely covered regularly or in-depth. The third crisis faced by the media is a decline of its credibility. A 2017 Philanthropies are pushed survey for the Reuters Ars Electronica Ars Institute’s Digital News and push themselves in many directions. Project showed that and the public discourse shaped by The current media environment is not good Above: The impact of trust in media in the the media, have changed more quickly news for anyone in civil society, and that artificial intelligence, There are many urgent social needs, UK fell by 7 per cent in response to major shifts in the includes philanthropy. The information base robotics, cognitive compared to 2016. computing, and big political landscape? of democracy, its norms and its operating data is likely to bring beyond confronting failing trust and Meanwhile, Edelman’s mechanisms are under threat. a potentially even annual report on trust Philanthropy is reacting… slowly bigger wave of growing misinformation. found declines in public Some philanthropies are trying to mitigate What should philanthropy do? disruption. trust in the institutions the effects of disinformation. As James Deane highlights (p46), of government, philanthropy has come to the ‘sudden In media, the story is the commodity and business, media and NGOs around the world, In the US for example, the prototype fund recognition of just how much independent trust is the currency with the greatest drop for media. run by the Knight Foundation, the News media mattered and just how weakened If philanthropy is, at its best, at the forefront Integrity Initiative, funded by Facebook But not everyone is pessimistic. Barbara democracies had become by misinformation of the quest for social justice, then media is, at and run by CUNY, is reinvigorating a taste Hans, for example, writes (p56) about a real and disinformation’. Philanthropic funding its best, at the forefront of halting the biggest for media literacy and giving new impetus opportunity for media to ‘return to its true of media needs to address what Sievers and abuses. At a minimum, it is capable of defining to fact-checking initiatives. In Europe, function in society and its vital role in Schneider consider the most immediate conversations and setting the agenda. a response has come from European democracy’. threat today, ‘the decline of civic media institutions and some governments, notably Columbia University’s Anya Schiffrin and the resulting deterioration of public What is behind this optimistic view? While Germany. Some foundations such as ZEIT articulates better than anyone that ‘journalists discourse’ which are prerequisites for a media may be reeling, what is not dying is the Stiftung and Fritt Ord are making important have been calling attention to some of the functioning civil society. authority and influence it exerts. Many agree contributions. Other promising initiatives same problems for more than a hundred years’. that news media still matters in setting the such as the Fund for Democracy and Philanthropy has made possible Their writing had significant impact and a wave agenda. It signals what is important to the Solidarity in Europe have been announced independent news providers in places where of ‘committed and campaigning journalism’ public and what the public should be paying but are yet to be fully operational. the flow of information is challenging, like always existed in moments where a ‘general attention to, and is a mechanism that MalaysiaKini in Malaysia, most non-for-profit climate of intellectual ferment and political In truth, this latest political upheaval across policymakers feel they need to respond to investigative reporting around the world, activism’ called for it. the world has brought to light not just how in order to retain legitimacy. such as IDL-Reporteros in Peru, and even unprepared philanthropies were, how Yet, the media has gone through a massive the organizations behind the coordination of reactive, how little we knew about these transformation over the last decade, impacted Time to pay more attention to audiences the Panama and Paradise Papers. These are possible scenarios. But journalism was also by three distinct trends. First, the technological and impact some of institutional philanthropy’s most taken by surprise. We, philanthropies, we, revolution has made us question most of our A few years back the mere notion of tracking significant contributions. the journalists, weren’t curious enough. assumptions about what a media system looks impact made both philanthropies and SPECIAL FEATURE: OVERVIEW FEATURE: SPECIAL 38 39 media uneasy. Today, both are much more Grants Data Map yet. A recent comfortable trying to figure out what works study commissioned by the and what doesn’t. While for philanthropy, European Journalism Centre there is a responsibility to make the most When working with philanthropies, revealed that the UK market effective use of every philanthropic dollar, alone is estimated at close to for media, its survival may depend on its there must be mission alignment, The media $40 million annually. ability to understand if it is informing and not just an added revenue model, engaging a growing audience, or effecting otherwise the partnership Two reasons why the US gets any change in the real world. the biggest share ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 model doesn’t work. And yet, charitable journalism funding Measuring audience response to a philanthropy largely remains a US affair – both in journalistic story by counting page views terms of donors and beneficiaries. and unique visitors is necessary but not Concluding thoughts More than 90 per cent of grant money sufficient. Questions of impact are at the This special feature aims to highlight flows to US-based organizations, with core of the role that journalism ought to structural concerns in the relationships some 6 per cent of funds allocated to be playing. For parents in Texas who are space in 2017 between the media and philanthropy. Europe, and only about 1 per cent to worried about the best school choice media outlets in the developing world. for their children, The Texas Tribune has Alliance readers will encounter some developed a search engine that allows challenges: from Gustavo Gorriti, that The vast majority of foundations them to explore and compare Texas’s state ‘there is nowadays a measure of engaging in the sector are also districts and public schools. In Kenya, thanks enlightened despotism in our relationship based in the US. The reasons are to the vision of The Star editor and the work with foundations…’ From Tom Rosentiel and two-fold. First, Europe has generally of Code for Africa, the media now offers its Kevin Locker who set out ethical guidelines a less-developed philanthropy audiences an opportunity to check if their (p55) and Barbara Hans on the opportunities culture than the US. Second, it doctors are as qualified as they claim. and the boundaries of cooperation (p56). traditionally has strong public- or Eric Karstens is a state-funded media and far-ranging Journalism matters, but the question Like many others, we at the Gates grant consultant media subsidy systems in place. that philanthropy asks is, what journalism Foundation adhere to guiding principles for the European Hence, potential donors habitually matters most? in our media funding: transparency, respect Journalism Centre do not perceive media and for the editorial and creative independence Journalism now comes in many different and other clients. journalism as particularly in need of of grantees, and mutual respect for the shapes, but also new models emerge, such extra funding, but rather focus their editorial integrity of the content. This means [email protected] as The Conversation – ‘providing reliable efforts on social issues, science and that stories are covered based on editorial information, working with academics and the arts. This may have changed merit, and must be evidence-based and of researchers, based on the premise that recently, though – there is a value to the audiences they affect. While philanthropic funding for journalism just as clean water is vital for health, clean noticeable European equivalent information is essential for a healthy However, this special feature also hopes to is now considerable, most of it comes from, to the ‘Trump bump’ reported by democracy’ (p60) – investigative newsroom point to what needs to happen to better and goes to, the US ProPublica. ProPublica, and mega collaboration projects work together in solving societies’ problems: Like goes to like such as the International Consortium of seeking alliances to reach goals, achieve hilanthropies now support awareness campaigns for social or Non-profit recipients attract the Investigative Journalism, among many other missions and fulfil shared commitments. media and journalism to a other charitable causes (including better part of journalism-related variations. However, the goals remain the same: There are challenges for all of us. Pspectacular degree – some international development), grant revenues; less than 3 per cent to positively affect the societies they serve. Media needs to welcome change. It needs $1.3 billion annually between 2011 education, or otherwise of the total grants budget is to do a better job at demonstrating value and 2015, a stunning amount by information-oriented platforms. funnelled directly into commercial Philanthropy is not the answer to and evidencing why media matters. When news industry standards. The Another fifth is awarded to the news organizations. That figure is sustainability working with philanthropies, there must authoritative source on the matter, thematic cluster of press freedom, higher, though, if sub-grants made The trap would be to believe that be mission alignment, not just an added the Media Grants Data Map open access and technological by non-profit intermediaries such as philanthropy is the answer to sustainability. revenue model, otherwise the partnership maintained by Media Impact innovation in media. That leaves the European Journalism Centre are As journalist Gustavo Gorriti notes (p48), model doesn’t work. For its part, Funders and the Foundation on average just 17 per cent of the counted. Indeed, existing rules and ‘there is a great disparity between the philanthropy needs to step up and Center, indicates how charitable available funding for journalism regulations make it more difficult for consensus on the importance of free, understand that first, without functioning foundations distribute this bounty. in the narrower sense, that is, charitable foundations to subsidize investigative journalism for the health of media, civil society collapses; secondly, our the production of independent businesses than to fund fellow democracy and the very small percentage More than two-thirds goes towards goals can be achieved better by working journalistic coverage. charities. Keeping the money within of philanthropy allotted to support it’. what could be described as services: with the media. the tax-exempt ecosystem is the In absolute figures, this translates If we look at the size and distribution of path of least resistance. Most of all, we need to remind ourselves of into journalism grants worth more global philanthropy, we can easily conclude the many moments when journalism really than $220 million each year – even That said, the mutual reservations that the disparity exists. mattered. Re-reading Global Muckraking: more if we between foundations and Venture capital doesn’t invest substantially 100 years of investigative reporting from account for commercial news outlets also in media either – less than 7 per cent of all around the world or Democracy’s Detectives: More than 90 per cent of grant money European and indicate that their interests are venture capital in Africa goes to support the the economics of investigative journalism other journalism not always perfectly aligned. media. Entire sectors of philanthropy, such would be a great start. Media and flows to US-based organizations, with grantmaking Foundations often see media and as social investment and impact investment, philanthropy must respond to the challenges some 6 per cent of funds allocated to worldwide that journalism as proxies of their own don’t yet have it on their radar, with a few we face. Now is a critical time. A spirit of Europe, and only about 1 per cent to has not made it issue-driven campaigning. Catering notable exceptions. enquiry isn’t an option – it’s a necessity. into the Media to this demand comes naturally SPECIAL FEATURE: OVERVIEW FEATURE: SPECIAL OVERVIEW FEATURE: SPECIAL media outlets in the developing world. 40 SPECIAL FEATURE: OVERVIEW ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 for journalism organizations (not (not for counting expenses the organizations journalism for unrestricted operational support 7 per cent of went funding into just 2014, and 2011 Between is increasingly unlikely to afford. in a talent way that itself the ailing industry journalistic to boost a give and journalism they quality enable respect editorial independence, whole. Where issue-driven funders a healthy news ecosystem as a supporting towards way long a development coverage, still goes international support for Foundation’s Gates Melinda & the Bill as such funding, foundation noted that targeted thematically it be should Nevertheless, in and of itself. purpose a as interest public the Forum put Funders in it: journalism Journalism Centre’s European Journalism the in participant one as the ‘embrace of model journalism’, foundations that is for hope rather latter the What organizations. not to general-purpose journalism to similarly inclined but NGOs, give aboost to talent. journalistic they journalism and enable quality respect editorial independence, Where issue-driven funders Data source: Own calculations based on Media Grants Data Map, years 2011-2014 years Map, Data Grants Media on based calculations Own source: Data by sectors Media funding

Reporting, and the Center for for Center the and Reporting, Investigative for Center the organizations such as ProPublica, in donors this helping space, main the among are Foundation Foundation and the Knight Ford L James and S John The ProPublica). as much as times million – an $231 accumulated ten philanthropic journalism funding at is of the recipient single largest Newseum in Washington, which European Union, most funding funding most Union, European Even the inside bloc of the Media, and Adessium Foundation. the Dutch Stichting Democratie en Foundation, Potter Elaine and David the others, among from, have Journalism received grants Investigative for Bureau and the Journalism Investigative Centre for the UK, the In Journalism. a of future House Non-Profit $30 million to the creation of Foundation has pledged almost Schöpflin and ProPublica, could as be the described German which Correctiv, into investment Foundation Brost has made the a substantial Germany, In Europe. in on caught also has trend this Finally, 64% and services Media platforms policy access Media and 17% and information Journalism, news,

19%

the market. the whims of them from the and shielding independently work their perform to Integrity Public recipient region Journalism funding by

foundations is of that number an increasing of this aspects new development Finally, one of the most remarkable grants. cross-border making by in particular distinguish themselves Netherlands the from funders domestic interests, although tied remain to opportunities author’s own calculations. author’s the on based are figures All database and valuable advice. their to access for Funders Armour-Jones and Media Impact The author thanks Sarah plate as well. well. as plate the to up step must journalism – but one for opportunity which great A too. journalism, independent in lies that value come to the appreciate public now with backgrounds different foundations that such are times the (Knight and money Brost are examples), newspaper old by fuelled almost emerge to exclusively from used donors funding journalism While unconditional picture. in news are coming into the without

92% United States Europe countries Developing 1% Other countries a background

7%

1%

SPECIAL FEATURE: IN PROFILE In profile In by them. was not compromised independence and that editorial such partnerships’, organization was ‘transparent about He said that its the co-founders. and that it is 70 per cent owned by ‘form a of small part budget’ Malaysiakini’s grants foreign that 2012 in said CEO Chandran Premesh contributors, are others and Democracy for Endowment National the While its is income a matter for debate. the racial The quota system. source of and AIDS workers, migrant as in debated the such media country’s of It debate. public features topics less backgrounds, creating an open arena and of religions ideological various the of of opinions readers all races and hosts that section letters a is of Indicative governance. its openness of and freedom good speech democracy, rights, human justice, its as of policy editorial supportive It describes government-owned). (mostmedia of which are pro-opposition by mainstream it is as considered independent, While it its stance political describes mobile. and desktop on day per receive over million page views 2.3 source in and Malaysia, claims to It news has a become significant journalism. space for uncensored Steven Gan in as 1999 November a by Premesh Chandran and journalist Malaysiakini in Malaysia was founded The philanthropically-backed Malaysiakini by philanthropy organizations backed Selected media

www.malaysiakini.com

transparent financial reporting. national levels’. It is also to and committed state local, at leaders for and and accountability practices; laws; reversals of policies harmful tocontributed of the passage new other has our reporting positive changes, ‘among that claims ProPublica Hewlett and Ford Foundations. Foundations, the Knight, MacArthur, Society Open Fund, Threats website the include Skoll Global Major on named its donors foundation administration. his and Trump President on series a features, other and technology, and runs, among education, healthcare, immigration, criminal justice, the environment, government and politics, business, a of range topics including covers ProPublica wrongdoing’. of spotlighting the sustained through reform spur to journalism using the moral force of investigative business, and other institutions, of the trust public by government, of of ‘abuses power and betrayals its as mission describes exposure is to critical ProPublica democracy, the basis on that investigative 2007 in journalism founded newsroom, An independent, non-profit ProPublica

www.propublica.org

(GIJN) Journalism Network The Global Investigative of Illinois. of Illinois. Department at the University Journalism the in Reporting Investigative in Chair Knight the from support in-kind and Google from has past come funding years additional In Foundations. Paul and Bay & David Logan Reva Foundation, the and the Foundation, Oak the the Ford Foundation, Foundation, Adessium the from as well as in 2003, network loose a as beginnings since its Foundations Society Open has received from core the support membership representatives. GIJN by elected of GIJN members which the consists board, GIJN director and secretariat executive report to The world. the around journalism investigative to support its and increase conference capacity created to its better manage biennial 68 in In 2012, countries. a was secretariat organizations member 155 to and has since in grown Copenhagen Conference Journalism Investigative It out sprang of the 2003 Global provides and resources consulting. and training conducts conferences, investigative journalism. GIJN holds support, promote and produce that organizations of non-profit association international an is GIJN

https://gijn.org

41

42 SPECIAL FEATURE: IN PROFILE ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 Borders and Access Borders Info. without such as Reporters data, open and information to promote media to freedom, rights work that organizations supports foundation the Third, journalists exchange ideas. of community investigative where the conferences European organize things, other among both of Network, which, Journalism Investigative Global the and EU Examples include Journalismfund. strong journalistic infrastructure. for is a element second support A Netherlands). the in (based (Germany),Correct!v and Investico Bureau of (UK), Investigative Journalism The and (ICIJ) Journalists Consortium of Investigative include the International content and distribution. Examples promote innovation of journalistic tell to and to stories of social importance organizations journalistic to core First, support and project foundation’s media grantmaking. There are three elements to the investigative journalism in Europe. cross-border and collaborative of support through including open, democratic societies interest programme aims to foster The Adessium Foundation’s public The Netherlands Adessium Foundation, the mediaon programmes Foundation  public-interest www.adessium.org/

good practice in good practice the field. and the of sharing and knowledge and protection of safety journalism, the initiatives, journalism for support direct between split the under programme, portfolios four are There Asia. world, except East and South-East in all the virtually of regions the initiatives featured here, operating It basis. of is the the most wide-ranging ethical an on and disseminated gained information, reliable sources of independent and is where one journalism of the only of emphasis is the on programme those areas The mobilizations’. social or massive peace agreements, elections, democratic first as such in of moments great opportunity, or poverty, repression, or violence, ‘autocracy, include conditions’ field’ toaccording its website. ‘Difficult the in sharing knowledge and conditions, difficult under collected innovative information and quality strengthen to investigative reporting, seeking while to flourish, journalism for environment safe and free ‘a supports on independent journalism Society Foundations’ programme Open media, force in independent as a recognised Widely pioneering Foundations, US Open Society  OSF-programmes http://tinyurl.com/

chaired by journalist, T N Ninan. Ninan. N T journalist, by chaired in is the of hands board of trustees, which run, is foundation the how in say direct a have backers of None houses. corporate the by backed are firms television and media print mainstream in a departure where country for independent media is a support new Its ($570,000). crore to Journalism the tune of INR3.7 Foundation for Independent it the for has, funded example, on IPSMF’s website specified not are amounts grant While in discourse our democracy’. space that allows for a deeper in coverage, especially the and digital reporting great foster ‘to intended is IPSMF the Nilekani, in According to fields. various changemakers and innovations a site that publicizes stories of Journalism, and Better India, Foundation for Independent news bywebsite published the government policy, The Wire, a news, India legal Spend, which analyses publishes which LiveLaw, organizations. Grantees include media interest public to provides assistance foundation Premji and Rohini Nilekani. The including philanthropists Azim of funders consortium Indian a is (IPSMF) Foundation and Spirited Public Media Independent the 2015, in up Set Foundation, India Public Spirited Media Independent and to communities. local of open channels information credibility of news and maintaining in the digital age, increasing maintaining journalistic standards backing investigative journalism, of parts the different world in media the on programmes A of run number foundations

http://ipsmf.org

United supports United supports and human trafficking.Humanity into conflicts journalism emerging investigative and reporting production to more general like in forced labour palm oil ranges from specific thematic areas social issues. Its media engagement to raise of awareness important partners, reporters and media storytellers engages that programme media strategic a has It Pierre Omidyar. founder, eBay by established (HU) is of part The Group Omidyar United Humanity in 2008, Launched US United, Humanity Washington-based group behind the the Panama Papers behind investigation. group Washington-based Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), the go of to Consortium the International One of will million, ofits $4.5 grants, first world. the around speech hate and counteract fightmisinformation journalism, investigative to support million of $100 funding announced the itself has Network recently Omidyar Meantime, 2022. in Cup World the for facilities football Qatar’s in Qatar housing workers building conditions in migrant labour camps Cup Workers’ The also It the of making supported the film, effectively. issue the tackle of states and justice failure systems to the to slavery modern-day markets play in sustaining aspects of this from issue, the all role that at looks which platform, focus’ in slavery ‘Modern-day

http://tinyurl.com/OmidyarF The Guardian , which details details which , ’s ’s

US universities. US universities. at in a journalism of number the funded centres creation of academic and chairs endowed also has Knight trust. increase to ways on experiments and trains journalists News which conducts project, Institute for its Journalism Trusting Reynolds the to and fact-checking; to dedicated its staff full-time doubling by misinformation debunk Press to its toincrease ability fact-checking tools; to Associated the of network building organizations expand will that hub innovation an launch to Lab Reporters’ will be togrants the Duke University these Among and their audiences. connections between journalists journalism and building stronger to total organizations in improving trust in million $2.5 provide will Democracy programme, which and Media Trust, a launched has The recently foundation to approaches the use of technology. access to and innovative information, the right of and expression public and of in including support litigation, training research, is Its thrust main journalism. is areas programme One of four Foundation’s Knight Knight Foundation, US  programs https://knightfoundation.org/

annual media conference. conference. media annual to refugee grants journalists and supports an awards also ZEIT Armenia. from Russia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan and € There are three annual awards worth Journalism in Eastern Europe. – Awards Supporting Independent Media Free the established Fritt Foundation, Ord, a Norwegian In ZEIT and 2016, Stiftung Office. Foundation and the German Foreign by co-financed theMercator is project The outlet. media to two spend months with Europe a German Eastern from journalists is an exchange programme enabling Fellowship, for example, Donhoff The Europe. Eastern in notably initiatives, journalistic various ZEIT funds Germany’s Stiftung in founder, Gerd Bucerius 1971, by Launched Zeit newspaper Germany Stiftung, ZEIT for free under a Creative Commons As licence. a result, Commons Creative a under free for Mosaic videos, audio and infographics. site articles, also features shorter health, medicine and science. The non-fiction articles narrative, about human long, is focus Its 2014. the of science in life March launched exploring to dedicated magazine a Wellcome Trust publishes UK Trust, Wellcome that Wellcome funds. that Wellcome funds. isn’t limited to research featuring Wellcome’s it and mission vision, it that covers fitsubjects with While is independent. editorially the Mosaic manage and artwork, original and edit the commission stories and all the around world. Wellcome staff and books on websites magazines, have appeared in newspapers, of Wellcome. of Wellcome. those do represent not necessarily expressed views the that which means stories, their to perspectives bring their contributors own unique 15,000 each available to journalists journalists to available each 15,000

www.zeit-stiftung.de/en www.mosaicscience.com content is available to use use to available is content website. The publication publication The website. Mosaic

Mosaic Mosaic stories ’s ’s

,

43

44 SPECIAL FEATURE: IN PROFILE ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 Pierre Pierre Omidyar mediaback who own or Philanthropists stands at $10.2 billion. $10.2 at stands worth net Omidyar’s Forbes, According to Network. Omidyar an through the entity called run mainly interests, political philanthropic, numerous business and his from separate remain would venture his that he stressed eBay, at operations day-to-day it No involvedhas longer been. in it though is how unclear successful with model paid subscriptions, journalism online new a aims create to which Hawaii, in affairs public a Beat, news website covering previously had set up Civil Honolulu Omidyar Greenwald. Glenn and led and security bynational on transparency, civil liberties a 2013, site journalism focused Intercept in founded instead, but so, did actually Bezos Jeff the purchasing ‘explored he that saying article news in a Businessinsider.com in as quoted is He Greenwald. ex- programmes, exposed by about government-spying eBay, is very concerned apparently Omidyar, who chair of remains engaged citizens’. to into readers convert ways mainstream find to want I And, interest. all of in possible, support the public extent greatest the to work their  Guardian www.omidyargroup.com Washington Post correspondent Glenn way that leverages leverages that way a in journalists independent in supporting a maturing ‘interest words, own his in Pierre Omidyar has, of Founder eBay ’ before before ’

on on Twitter. site political on Facebook and biggest the is and year a views site popular with two billion page Post intention of a being in Set 2012. up with the express right-wing news site Breitbart Steve enabled to Bannon fund million of $10 money Mercer’s that Robert Mercer Observer his donor. becoming biggest tohis Trump,allegiance Donald race, US he presidential transferred of Tedsupporter Cruz in the 2016 Initiallya markets. the financial to algorithms and model trade on makes that its money by using fund hedge a Technologies, to CEO become of Renaissance at went Mercer scientist on IBM, Observer toaccording an in article the UK’s decade past the in million $10 watchdog media to the tune of over self-styled the funded has Mercer his Through fund, hedge the in news, media bias and popular culture’. leftwing neutralising an to ‘unwavering commitment itself as which having describes

 http://tinyurl.com/Mercer-Obs for for the right, it is now a . Beginning as . a Beginning computer also claims that it was was it that claims also Research Center, backer of the Media is Mercer a major of media. supporters significant Foundation are the Family Mercer and Mercer Robert Huffington Huffington The

public benefit’. of and private for effectiveness action impact the increase ‘to aims Social Entrepreneurship, which Institute for and Philanthropy Marshall the found to LSE the to £30 million committed Marshall 2016, In media’. the and religion technology, politics, economics, and even dangerous thinking on out-of-date, will incorrect challenge they Together areas. subject their into deeply dive to skills the possess will and time the given be will ‘its journalists Montgomerie, Sir Paul Marshall Paul Sir commercial arsenal: of part a or wider philanthropic the potential power of as media who have philanthropists exploited The following is a of small selection adviser and to its CEO, Conservative former than the latest rather things’. According things important ‘the on website which topromises focus a of right UnHerd, of centre news also one become of the funders in More 2010. recently, has Marshall government with the Conservatives into entry the coalition party’s eventually shift, and free-market paving rightwards more distinctly Orange Book UK’s Democrats. Liberal of the the underpinning fundamental reaffirm to sought which Laws, reclaiming liberalism he co-edited  https://tinyurl.com/MarshallInst http://tinyurl.com/unherd Times set the stage for a a for stage the set The orange book: back to 2004, when when 2004, to back goes activity public Marshall’s media and Wace, Marshall Paul hedge fund groups, largest Europe’s chair of one of Co-founder and journalist Tim Tim journalist with MP David The The

been well documented’. have the competitors smallest toward and its even ruthlessness of taxes, its mistreatment workers, notes ‘Amazon’s also of history dodging article Kunkle’s payment. drop any claims tolegal receive requiring outgoing employees to by severance ‘hostage’ payments company pension plan and holding retirement benefits,freezing a Post In a in piece the published of [his ‘treating employees] poorly’. his despite a efforts record philanthropic increase to desire a expressing for Post who writes for and philanthropy. Fredrick Kunkle, on the tensions between business provides a ownership commentary UK world’, toaccording more for become suitable the digital has grown and its content ‘has his takeover, the world’s country. most Since powerful watchdog over of the leaders the that The Post and publication, – global even and – national powerful more a he wanted because to make it into newspaper the bought he claims expressly. of The founder Amazon Jeff Bezos Jeff  . However, the path to newspaper newspaper to path the However, . https://tinyurl.com/HP-Bezos , he Bezos accuses of cutting ’s Metro desk, castigated Bezos Bezos castigated desk, Metro ’s was was well situated to be a initiative initiative – at not least, a philanthropic Post of the purchase his though list, this in Bezos Jeff of place to mention out be not might It The The Washington Post in 2013 was not not was 2013 in Business Insider Business Washington Washington ’s readership Huffington Huffington

Evgeny Lebedev Osborne, as editor Osborne, of the paper. Conservative Chancellor, George appointment of the former and Zac the Goldsmith recent of mayoral billionaire candidate included the paper’s backing This has notable. been politicians conservative views and Conservative Standard of ownership the assuming that he is said to display. Since of the whimsicality mega wealthy point to detractors the offensive his hand, other the On sartorial sense. his for even business, dying a seems what into money put to to his business acumen, his willingness attention draw him like who Those opinion. divides Lebedev scene, A of part prominent London’s social an article an in article now makes a profitaccording to to when acquired, bankruptcy Standard of philanthropy. The is bynewspapers no a means piece of the ownership Lebedev’s the two million into £120 British newspapers, estimated an put have they while slavery. But modern against campaigned the in through Hospital and, London Street and Great Ormond Children’s the of protection including elephants has a of and number supported causes philanthropist a is Lebedev Evgeny channel. TV Live London  Spec-Lebedev https://tinyurl.com/ Independent , the paper’s support for for support paper’s the , , in fact, though close close though fact, in , The Spectator in addition in toaddition the UK, the in newspapers and both the own who Lebedev Alexander and Evgeny father-son team of the fact in It’s ’s website, has Evening Standard Evening Evening Independent . Evening Evening

Laurene Powell Jobs Powell Laurene $10 million per year’. per million $10 and makes a profit of‘well above a of monthly audience 33 million The attracts company altogether for accounts 80 per cent of revenue. now advertising digital source, in a share According tolame duck. a one buying not is Jobs Media. Atlantic the stake, will as continue chair of acquired she whom from Bradley, Project Marshall and ProPublica. David the in investments through supported non-profit journalism studio Anonymous Content and has has taken a she stake in minority Hollywood past, the In media. the foray into first her not is This causes. reform and support educational entrepreneurship to advance social The Emerson Collective uses of initiatives Jobs’ is named. Emerson, after whom another writer Ralph Waldo American institutions’. It was by founded important and enduring journalistic ‘one called of the most country’s two billion people around the world. the around people billion two views and content, and news, is used by for platform a as media and is central to the story of philanthropy in person the world. richest Today, Facebook fifth the as 2016 in Forbes by ranked was he and billion $74 at estimated now is wealth His he floated for$16billion. Facebook Mark Mark Zuckerberg   http://tinyurl.com/recode-jobs mark-zuckerberg www.forbes.com/profile/ ’s parent company, Atlantic creating one. In 2012, 2012, In one. creating by – philanthropist a there, from and – rich someone who became company, media but acquired a tech philanthropist who a not is Zuckerberg magazine, which she stake in a acquired majority philanthropist, entrepreneur and Silicon Valley Laurene Powell Jobs, year, this July In The Atlantic The Atlantic

The The

45

46 47

characterizes the challenge of and involved relationship between between private philanthropic and assistance in this area as ‘messy, them – media business models, these donors is minimal. political and difficult’. It has also journalistic ethics, societal dynamics, There is much to be said for diversity. historically been beset by different, political and power relationships, It means that a range of strategies, sometimes competing, world views, individual and social psychology organizations and financial models results frameworks and an unusual (particularly around issues of identity are available to support independent degree of faddism and inconsistency. and belonging), governance, Global view media. But there are very few fora for Communication and lesson learning technology and economics – present debate and dialogue that can inject ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 between foundations has greatly formidable challenges and are the some semblance of coherence to it. improved in recent years, but example par excellence of the need Supporting independent the complexity and scale of the for an interdisciplinary approach. Meanwhile those forces bent on challenge require better There are limited signs that such an undermining democracy by communication, evidential approach is emerging. manipulating media and information foundations and strategic clarity. spaces are arguably far more Another strategic challenge is focused, strategic in their intent media in an age of Philanthropists in this area tend to connecting philanthropic donor and effective in their impact. have quite distinct philosophies and efforts with those of government and Philanthropic donors who have an expectations of what their support UN donors. The US government has interest in supporting independent will achieve. For some, the aim is historically been the largest financial media do not need to always agree to support a free and independent supporter of independent media but with each other, but they all should misinformation media in and of itself. Others tie the EU and other bilateral donors, like have one thing in common – their their support to advocating specific Sweden, Norway, Switzerland and the commitment to democracy. Greater development or other agendas they UK also have traditions of support to information sharing, lesson learning, want to see advanced. Still others independent media. UNESCO is the strategic dialogue and commitment leaders in both democratic and link their support to improving formal lead within the UN system on to mutual understanding is non-democratic regimes – including accountability of governments media support but its budget is small increasingly urgent if we have any in the US, Turkey, Hungary and to citizens, peaceful elections, and shrinking – and likely to shrink James Deane is director of policy and hope of addressing the scale of the Poland – was another. An empowered citizens or other further given the recent withdrawal research at BBC Media Action, the BBC’s challenge. acknowledgement by tech giants specific democratic or governance of the US from UNESCO. Dialogue international development charity. like Facebook that their algorithms benefits. Some focus on innovation james.deane@bbc.co.uk had no solution to the viral and digital media, others on support dissemination of misinformation to investigative journalism. Some and that humans – journalists and provide strategic grants, others The pernicious effects of misinformation on factcheckers – are needed to assure investments, still others project democracy are now generally seen, but if efforts some semblance of trust in the support. Some support media dominant information platforms content, others training and capacity to support an independent media are to be that humanity increasingly uses building. Some invest and support successful, they need greater cohesion to access its information provided over the long term, others just for another spur to reassess support a few months. in this area. Measurement indices and evidential omething decisive changed defenders have been chronicling There has been a marked response frameworks also diverge. A good in 2016 in independent media the decline in media freedoms from several foundations, most deal of funding has gone recently Ssupport. around the world for at least half notably at the time of writing into fresh research initiatives, a decade, particularly since the It wasn’t a recognition that the news that George Soros is particularly around the drivers and heady days of the Arab Uprisings philanthropy is important to transferring $18 billion to his dynamics of misinformation, but in 2011. Authoritarianism, populism sustaining independent media. Open Society Foundations, greater linkages could be made and media intimidation have been That has been recognized for many whose Independent Journalism between these. The research base a depressing feature of the last years as seismic technological and Programme has been one of capable of guiding strategy and five years at least and many have economic shifts have transformed the most vital supporters of determining what works and does documented shrinking civic space the advertising markets and independent media internationally. not work in supporting independent across the world. eroded the business model of Other foundations spending or media internationally is in general traditional journalism. A small but What changed was the sudden reprioritizing this area – including in inchoate and siloed. The different vital coterie of foundations have recognition of just how much their international support – include dynamics at work and the intricate been responding to those concerns independent media mattered and the Omidyar Foundation, Ford, but at a scale and strategic just how weakened democracies MacArthur, Rockefeller and Bill coherence vastly short of the had become by misinformation & Melinda Gates Foundations. financial and political challenges and disinformation. Attempts by Regrettably, there are very few besetting independent media both Russia and others to influence or substantial non-US foundations in the West and around the globe. undermine the US election and in this area. There is much to be said for diversity. other democratic political Nor was it a recognition that But the challenge confronting It means that a range of strategies, processes was one wake-up call. independent media is under attack. media support is not just money. organizations and financial models are The growing contempt shown to Freedom House and other media It is also strategy. A friend of mine independent media by political available to support independent media. SPECIAL FEATURE: GLOBAL VIEW 48 49

My nearly eight-year old publication, IDL-Reporteros, owes its existence and subsistence to philanthropy – to foundation grants The media’s to be precise. We compete yearly with a fast-growing field of other publications for funds that do not seem to grow at the same rate. ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 We have to be better every year enlightened in order to survive. But this is only part of the problem we face in this new, fast-changing, hard to predict ecosystem. despots There is nothing wrong, in principle, with being funded by philanthropy, especially if your work is good and necessary. After all, some of the crucial works of western culture were made possible by the patronage of enlightened despots. The thinkers and artists thus supported lacked – to use a code-word in today’s foundations – ‘sustainability’, but in the midst of often precarious and even The impact of dangerous circumstances, they philanthropic funding Gustavo Gorriti is editor, had the means to create, and IDL-Reporteros, Lima, Peru. create they did. for independent investigative journalism [email protected] There is nowadays a measure

of enlightened despotism in our in Latin America has FoundationKnight relationship with foundations. been enormous. The death and re-birth of journalism? In Latin America, There are trends of thought, as Overall, there is a great disparity They often belonged to investigative network made up of it’s a bit more complicated happens elsewhere. Perhaps the between the consensus on the organizations such as the both journalists from non-profit most durable one is to wean importance of free, investigative International Consortium of digital publications and from publications from their funding There is in the United States a frenzied clatter of typewriters journalism for the health of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), nationally important newspapers, as soon as possible. They are publication with an ominous expressing the intensity of democracy and the very small cooperated together on regional or achieving smooth cooperation expected to find other forms masthead and an intriguing motto. collective thinking, especially percentage of philanthropy worldwide investigations on a scale through cutting-edge investigation. of income, and to show they The first is ‘Newspaper Death when game-changing scoops allotted to support it. never before approached (such as are trying, the sooner the better. So this process in Latin America is Watch’, the second: ‘Chronicling were in the works. the HSBC or the Panama Papers Some of these attempts are That being said, the impact slightly more complex, and rich, than the Decline of Newspapers and cases), while having a resounding In comparison, the non-profit moving, others are funny, a few of philanthropic funding for one of births and obituaries. In one of the Rebirth of Journalism.’ impact with their cutting-edge digital investigative journalism are moderately successful. But the independent investigative journalism the more difficult areas in the world, journalism in their own countries. I belong to a generation of outlet where I am now editor whole process begs a question: in Latin America has been enormous. it shows that with more systematic journalists that has lived through has a tiny newsroom staffed wasn’t the reason for the existence It has allowed many journalists From Mexico to Argentina, support, free, independent journalism this truly existential era. As a Latin by a few smart millennials and a of these non-profit journalistic who, through their unwillingness to small, mostly digital publications can do much more for democracy, the American baby boomer I well fitness-conscious dinosaur. There is publications (mostly investigative) compromise principles had become of elite journalists have been environment, human rights and the remember the epic deadlines no longer the sound of thinking but the fact that in the traditional unemployable, to continue serving disproportionately represented as fight against corruption than what it at neurotic newsrooms, with the a sense of compressed flow and (or legacy) media, investigative their people with their work. It made the authors of the most important has already achieved. once the scoop is ready, the return journalism was being sacrificed it possible for small publications to investigative stories. And, in a key distributes it at once; and a few to systemic decadence, distorted compete with the more powerful fast-growing, unexpected minutes later the social networks, markets, and brainless cost-cutting traditional publications through development, some traditional 1 In Evelyn Waugh’s Above: The issues the other media, the readers begin to keep profits? the intelligent use of technology, media have sought journalistic novel, Scoop, rather are not new. In 2010 to react to our content and we to the greater experience of their partnerships with them, thus cutting than directly disagree hundreds of Mexican There are other problems as well. with Lord Copper, the interact with them. Our reach is so journalists, and the freedom with costs, profiting from journalistic journalists silently Some foundations might change fictional owner of the marched in downtown much greater now than then and which they could and did tackle quality while maintaining, just in their fields or interest from one fictional newspaper, Mexico City in protest our production costs so much issues that were taboo for the case, a dash of deniability. the Daily Beast, the of the kidnappings, year to the other; others might smaller that you wonder if we traditional publications, which were paper’s foreign editor, murder and violence There is nowadays a want to fund only investigations In the currently most important are living not the rebirth, but the ridden by conflicts of interest and Mr Salter, is in the against their peers measure of enlightened or stories in specific areas and no investigative story in Latin America: habit of replying throughout the reinvention of journalism… ‘up to often by corrupt journalism. more, thus taking editorial decision the Lava Jato mega-corruption case ‘up to a point’ rather country. despotism in our a point, Lord Copper’, as they out of our hands and making Not only that, most journalists in the beyond Brazil, IDL-Reporteros than ‘no’ when he relationship with said in, well, Scoop.1 makes some glorified consultants out of us. new digital outfits knew each other. organized a Latin America-wide SPECIAL FEATURE: GLOBAL VIEW foundations. incorrect assertion. 50 51

independent, professional media and number of media outlets in Kenya. supporting the establishment of media institutions, vibrant journalists’ This ownership largely increases the media outlets, especially community associations, media training extent of political influence in those media in Kenya, while others have institutions, media and journalism outlets’ management and content. focused on the safety and protection Time to rethink regulatory bodies, and a supportive Commercial interests, on the of journalists. Though well meaning, government. Such ecosystems other hand, ensure that ‘negative these efforts are mostly short-term, exhibit pluralism in content, content’ on large corporates is opportunistic, disjointed, at times ownership and constituency, and censored. Corporates have pulled duplicate other efforts and don’t ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 philanthropy demonstrate ethical behaviour advertisements from media houses always reflect an understanding of standards and practices as well as that run ‘negative’ content. the root challenges facing the media professional quality journalism. In ecosystem especially in Kenya. It is Unfortunately, based on our our context, a sustainable media our contention that philanthropists experience with philanthropists, ecosystem is desirable. Journalists need to start paying attention to the a holistic approach to media need to feel safe and free to ply aspects of the media ecosystem journalism in development seems to be the their trade. Close collaboration where their support can be one least desired by most of them, with governments in the region to most effective. largely due to limited resources, guarantee a conducive environment inadequate knowledge of key issues Having implemented sector-wide for journalists is mandatory. We need affecting specific media ecosystems, media development programmes in East Africa to pay attention to the quality of and the desire to influence media Kenya and Tanzania we have learned journalism being practised by content and advocate for specific that philanthropy-backed journalism Anthony Wafula is regional picture of media development working closely with journalists, issues. Success in this approach is that solely focuses on one aspect of programme manager, initiatives dedicated to ‘capacity editors, media owners, media seen from the number of articles the media ecosystem is unlikely to transparency, accountability building programmes for media as training institutions and media published and the number of be effective in the long run since and freedom of expression, part of core programme support regulatory agencies. journalists trained. We believe that addressing the structural issues Hivos Hub East Africa. for civic education on gender, Principally, we need to support such efforts are short-term in nature. facing the sector takes a long time governance, democracy, human [email protected] alternative media outlets to Though useful, this kind of support is and requires more resources. rights, HIV/AIDS and other health disseminate critical media content, geared towards developing a media Although at times successful, Mendi Njonjo is regional director, issues, livelihoods, security, and especially where media capture by adept at articulating such issues and support to ‘quality media content Hivos Hub East Africa. sector reforms’. This is despite the political and commercial interests is strengthening only one aspect of the production’ is often unsustainable, report’s observation that Kenya’s [email protected] as pervasive as it is in East Africa. media system. especially in a fast-changing media media sector is ‘characterized by This has generally been on account context. Support to journalism and serious and chronic system-wide In Kenya, considerable investments of ownership. For instance in Kenya, media in general is meaningful challenges that require effective, have been dedicated to the training Philanthropists need to invest in the journalistic a 2012 Internews study on media when philanthropists collaborate coordinated and systemic of journalists to become better ownership2 established that to support a long-term sustainable ecosystem in East Africa, not in isolated initiatives approaches’. In our view, the subject matter specialists. Other politicians and their associates own media ecosystem. approaches cited in the CIDA philanthropists have focused on or have controlling stakes in a large f we consider that journalism existence of an independent report haven’t been effective is about freely exchanging and free media in the region. due to their short-term nature Left: Journalists in Iinformation based on news, views We hold that a conducive working and have largely dwelt on two Kenya protesting or ideas, then the context within environment, an enabling legal and aspects within the media against muzzling of the media. which journalism is practised policy environment, and support ecosystem – professionalism and matters. In East Africa this context for freedom of expression are some content production. Philanthropists 1 http://tinyurl.com/ is challenging. Intimidation and of the prerequisite conditions for thus need to question whether AMDI-Kenya harassment of journalists is rife. great journalism. These conditions such short-term approaches are 2 http://tinyurl.com/ media-Kenya Critical media outlets are being are not mutually exclusive for those responsive to the East Africa shut down on flimsy grounds and supporting media development in context and the extent to which others starved of government Kenya. A 2006 BBC World Service such support enhances a advertisement. Punitive media laws Trust pan-African research report sustainable media ecosystem. targeting journalists and media on the African Media Development Sustainable media ecosystems outlets have been enacted. Poor Initiative1 outlines sector-wide in our view include strong, organization among journalists and approaches in Kenya, though feeble self-regulation attempts documentation on their haven’t helped the situation. effectiveness is scant. In essence, this context has In 2008, a report commissioned by contributed to an increasingly Canadian International Development weak media where ‘survival Agency (CIDA)-Kenya report Corporates have journalism’ is taking root. suggests that, though holistic been known to pull Self-censorship, pandering to approaches might have been in commercial and political interests, evidence at the time of the World advertisements from media the sacking of critical journalists Service Trust report, they had been houses that run ‘negative’ and closure of media outlets abandoned two years later. Kenya content, hence further continue to undermine the media sector analysis paints a

SPECIAL FEATURE: GLOBAL VIEW limiting their independence. 52 53

fragmentation of sources and issues, eyes increasingly turn to civil deploying capital to protect the civic outlets of information on public society’s essential source of support, role of the media and sustain its vital Owning media affairs, proliferating informational philanthropy, as the best hope for function in democratic life. ‘echo chambers’, internet-enabled strengthening civic media. (Proposals Sparbankstiftelsen A leading example is the Media audience manipulation (both for increased public support, as Development Investment Fund DNB and Amedia, commercial and political), for example recommended by (MDIF) that has mobilized over the viral spread of ‘fake news’, McChesney and Nichols, are Norway Models $163 million of impact capital over disinformation campaigns on social beyond the scope of this article.) 21 years – including capital from ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 media, the power of a few digital n 2016 Sparebankstiftelsen DNB Two challenges foundations – to invest in media gatekeepers, the addictive (the Savings Bank Foundation Philanthropy faces two primary companies in countries where The crisis of effects of digital media and IDNB) in Norway acquired challenges in seeking to fill this role: access to free and independent the replacement of verbal Amedia, Norway’s largest first, the need to generate sufficient media is under threat. While this communication by video. These publisher of local media titles resources over a significant period model has been geared towards are only some of the myriad ways (it owns 62 subscription of time to provide a reliable base emerging democracies, the civic in which rational public discourse newspapers, 35 daily newspapers civic media for carrying out the necessary work; media situation in western is being subverted by a corrosive and 27 newspapers published and second, the need to guarantee democracies justifies the combination of technological and two or three days a week). It has the independence of civic media exploration of similar impact cultural forces. established an independent from external influence, including investment models there. foundation called Amediastiftelsen This cumulative process of from that of the philanthropists Bruce Sievers is a visiting scholar Crucially, both of these approaches as owner of the media group. disruption and decline has been themselves. at the Stanford Center on meet the second problem noted The new foundation will maintain described by many observers. Philanthropy and Civil Society In terms of generating sufficient above, that of insulating the content Amedia as an entity, and will Traditionally, civic media was able and lecturer in political science resources, a wide range of ideas of the work from funder influence. ensure the publishing base, to retain relative independence at Stanford University. for improving civic media has been A fundamental challenge for independence and editorial because it was supported by market proposed.1 We suggest that two of philanthropic funding of media freedom of the Group and [email protected] forces that fortuitously served a these approaches have particular organizations is the need to create newspapers. public function while generating Patrice Schneider is the promise: a firewall between the donor and private profit. Unfortunately, a In a press release on the chief strategy officer, Media content. This relates not only to convergence of technological and Models based on mission-driven acquisition, André Støylen, Development Investment Fund. ideological or political influence, social forces arising early in the ownership or endowment support2 CEO of Sparebankstiftelsen but also to general subject matter [email protected] 21st century has led to a rapid A European example is the DNB. emphasized that the model choice. Donors can justifiably disintegration of this model. The Democracy and Media Foundation of a foundation-owned media exercise overall oversight of result is an erosion of a primary pillar (DMF) in the Netherlands (see the group would strengthen the quality and reach, but their further A healthy democracy needs independent and trustworthy of civil society – the civic media that article by DMF’s director, Nienke local newspapers. ‘A long-term intervention would undermine the information. This is in dire peril. Here’s how philanthropy give the public its ability to arrive Venema, p54). Founded as a ownership will ensure the journalistic independence of media at free and rational opinion about resistance newspaper during the newspapers have the power they can help organizations. It is vital that funders public affairs, and, ultimately, to Second World War, DMF today is an need to restructure and increase adhere to a maxim similar to that speak coherently and rationally to equity fund with its largest share of their financial opportunities,’ or more than a decade free private associations, typically applied to grants for itself. Without such communication, capital invested in media companies. he said. ‘Local newspapers ominous clouds have been independent philanthropy, the rule university endowments: such democracy is threatened. Its ownership model allows it to are important for their local Fgathering on the horizon of law anchored in legal institutions, support should advance the work protect the editorial independence communities, for democracy, for of civil society. A series of recent and freedom of expression. The Philanthropy to the rescue?... of the institution per se rather of these publications by owning culture and for the civil society. developments has drawn those decline of civic media and the with a couple of ‘ifs’ than carry out a particular ‘a priority share which provides The aim of the acquisition is to clouds into a storm that threatens resulting deterioration of public The trends are well known. What content agenda of the funder. crucial veto rights should one of contribute to the newspapers’ everything in its path – civil society’s discourse have put the last of is missing from most analyses, the newspapers be sold or its Whatever model is chosen, efforts to develop their local information base, its norms and its these under severe threat. however, are realistic proposals for independence compromised’. philanthropy should experiment communities.’ operating mechanisms. Such a solutions. As traditional commercial The subversion of rational with a variety of approaches that weakened civil society poses an sources of support disappear and A quasi-endowment model in the US Sparebankstiftelsen DNB had public discourse meet the two requirements of existential threat to democracy. new sources appear insufficient is The Poynter Institute, a non-profit no previous involvement in the Evidence for this decline is sustainability and independence. to sustain an essential level of that owns the Tampa Bay Times. media industry. Stoylen noted in We start from an understanding everywhere: plummeting There is no magic formula for such independent, substantive flow of Although we don’t know of any other a letter published in Norwegian that civil society rests on four journalistic print media sales, a complexity of problems whose communication about vital public news outlet that draws on a blend of newspaper Aftenposten that it prerequisite institutional structures: the demise of newspapers, the social consequences are massive. endowment, earned income, and has a strong interest in culture government grants, such a model, 1 Beyond Disruption, Skoll Foundation Institute and local communities and the akin to the financial support structure for the Future, Kettering Foundation, Center acquisition is therefore ‘a natural for International Media Assistance/National The foundations of universities or other cultural Endowment for Democracy continuation of the foundation’s of civil society institutions, is certainly feasible. social investments in other areas’. The rule of 2 Trust Ownership and the Future of News, A system Impact investment in civic media Gaven Ellis, 2014 www.amedia.no/english/?id=471 Free private Independent law anchored of free While independent news associations philanthropy in legal expression organizations are often commercial institutions enterprises, they can be much more than that. Social impact investors are increasingly interested in ways of SPECIAL FEATURE: MODELS 54 SPECIAL FEATURE: MODELS ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 O independent media Underwriting questions in journalism they crucial how are it own company, and why and amedia owns Who which which they a considered threat to commercial media ownership, of the against dangers purely this underground paper warned Parool owner of newspaper resistance as occupation Nazi the sole, non-profit the during 1944 in founded (SDM), Media en Democratie Amsterdam-based Stichting is in encoded the DNA of could and play philanthropy – and a vision of the role foundations The future of – ownership media looking for impact investors. as media it legacy is to start-ups media for relevant as is question This companies? journalism and media in shareholders shareholders. by But what set motivates parameters the on deal great a depend decisions data. These user selling or advertising native example, for – outlet the of integrity their journalism benefit revenue but notnecessarily faced with that might decisions CEOs and of boards are directors result, a As fail. sometimes and . The founders . and editors The of founders business models to struggle media has disruption caused ver the last 30 digital years, Media. Media. Democratie en director of Stichting Nienke Venema @stdem.org

n.venema

Het Het is is

Having a mission-driven investor investor a mission-driven Having independent and ad-free status. protect each editorially platform’s intervene where necessary to The Correspondent 2017 to its overseas expansion, De Correspondent online journalism platform ad-free to model ownership unique this applied we 2013, In even as a shareholder. minority provides SDM with veto rights, this share’ ‘golden compromised, sold or closed, its independence If one of newspapers. these is to be to applies a of selection the group’s – priority or – ‘golden’ share that takes the form of Nederland, a company De Persgroep publishing largest investment, in newspaper of mission our the foundation, with the keeping historic public-interest In budget. grants our into back goes that revenue some and the role provides us with a voice day-to-day business decisions, but We legacy make companies. media don’t Dutch several in shareholder Today, SDM is a minority with a interest public ethos. to take a stake in companies media been has method distinctive could take Our internationally. most philanthropy role the discuss to society actors and/or foundations to lawyers, and convening key connecting civil and activists journalists, tofrom grants making committed up to lives its in mission a of variety SDM ways, state. democratic just strong, a in invest to and journalism protect quality independent and promote to mission new After the war, they made it their and the of resilience civil society. the of quality the discourse public , and again in in again and , . We can can We .

innovative models. and of the feasibility researching other cases other mapping is currently SDM too. model productive a be and Agora Development Investment Fund and Philadelphia Foundation, the the Media and Lenfest Gerry as such method but recent examples, unexplored relatively a is however, of a shareholders company, media Becoming mission-driven with and investors. other funders networking and sharing knowledge increasingly crucial strategy, as is ideas and experiments is another leap of faith by innovative financing journalism infrastructure. Taking a protecting public-interest programmes, is important for we also do through which our regular grant networks, journalism non-profitnewsrooms and Funding investigative reporting, journalism. future of independent safeguarding in and promoting role the important an play can foundations and philanthropy which in ways many are There quality independent journalism. as their reputation of providers it also reinforces companies, media the of identity these public-interest protect just doesn’t SDM like The The Atlantic , and the Emerson Collective Collective Emerson the and , , show that this can can this that show ,

SPECIAL FEATURE: BOUNDARIES A journalism funding journalism non-profit for road the of Rule Boundaries both funders and beneficiaries need clearguidelines As philanthropists move increasingly into financing media, is less certain. outlets, with commercial traditional journalism, and even partnerships offunding new digital non-profit the road for the growing role of – the broadcasting public rule of from or editorial separation even lines of to practice ethical ensure over a clear developed century advertising departments – which Yetjournalism’. ambitious unlike the the paper ‘seek philanthropic helping funding for role, new a into moving that one of was its newsroom leaders Times York New 2017,In September importance. the a has reached new of moment philanthropic funding in journalism public about how about public you operate. transparent as possible with the of time thenahead and to as be theythink through what might be keyThe to avoiding is to problems to shrink, to the role shrink, of for model continues media s the advertising traditional even announced

going going so far as to specific finance about what they wanted reported, Funders could be troublingly specific media. in trust about byraised the climate current political now salient given the concerns that seem even vulnerabilities more a ofnumber identified possible outlets, and 146 commercial funders surveys of 76 outlets, media 94 non-profit included which research, Our field. the inform least at or govern to found, develop guiding principles research the what from learning by, gather key stakeholders and, operating were outlets media of and media funders non-profit detailed research on what rules and Gates Melinda & Foundation to Bill conduct the and Foundation Knight the by approached was Press In Institute the 2015, American director, American Press director, Institute. American Tom Rosenstiel non-profitfunding inmedia. on work the directed and Press Institute, manager, American Loker Kevin

[email protected] [email protected]

is programme is executive Foundation and John Arnold Laura the from million $3.5 grant station returned a TV public York New major a 2014, In stories and exposés.

public about how you operate. as with possible transparent the be of ahead time and then to be as might they what through to think is problems avoiding to key The two things in it this research, is learned these. have we If rules. own their specifying further, even them take to We everyone principles. encourage is toone organization adopt these Omidyar, Pierre by backed news outlet local non-profit a Beat, Honolulu Civil field. the in those for point These principles should be a starting meeting their purposes’. what would constitute success in for funding journalism and explain motivations their ‘articulate likewise their sources of They funding’. should report to partners media expect should they and funding, are they [with the public] the about media Funders ‘should be transparent transparency and communication’. of independence, editorial policies that establish... principles have ‘should organizations written News emerged. notions key Three media. non-profit for another and two sets one of for principles; funders out hammer to organizations and representatives from nine funding executives media non-profit scholars, 18 gathered then We and fundraising, ad hoc. operating, were they meant which or ethics policies, written guidelines had outlets media few Moreover, funding. the needed they because – were often too willing to say yes many media, of them natives digital representation higher a of newer had non-profit which – sample outlets our in Media interests. funders’ to close too was funds pension on following criticism that a series

55

56 57

It is also why it is vital that • Prior to any cooperation, media philanthropists recognize and outlets must ask themselves: Is this respect the independence of project a good match for us? Would the media. In short, the lure of we have sought to realize this project The lure of The opportunities foundation funding cannot be even without a funding partner? If foundation funding allowed to endanger the media’s so, why haven’t we done so thus far? credibility. Were that to happen, cannot be allowed • Philanthropists should not limit such a cooperation would prove to endanger the funding to content. When it ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 to be counterproductive: for both media’s credibility. and limits of comes to storytelling formats, the the publishing houses and for the development of data analysis foundations. After all, they too software or similar examples, are dependent on the quality funding can ultimately result in an and independence of the media open-source tool from which other with whom they cooperate. foundation-funded media can also profit. That, in turn, To ensure a successful cooperation, demonstrates the sustainability • Transparency is imperative: if a there are a few things that must be of such funding because it helps journalistic project receives outside observed: develop the infrastructure necessary funding, that must be clearly for independent journalism. journalism • Funding results in dependencies, a indicated in the published product. situation of which all those involved • It must be simple: the effort required With journalism facing a funding crisis, in such a cooperation must be for the administration of foundation- cooperation with philanthropists can: aware. The focus should not be funded journalism shouldn’t be a) deepen coverage; b) allow for the on denying this dependency, but greater than the return. implementation of long-term projects; on safeguarding against it as far •  Be realistic about what you will get. c) make costly trips possible; as possible. The amount of funding provided d) facilitate cooperation with • T h e parameters are important and includes administration costs. other European media outlets; and must be openly discussed by both e) generate lessons for such Barbara Hans is editor-in-chief, and the challenge of approaching •  Be realistic about what a newsroom sides, publishers and philanthropists, cooperation moving forward. That Spiegel Online. them across increasing numbers can deliver. The end-product prior to launch. Mediation by holds true for media outlets both and varieties of platforms with doesn’t always have to look like [email protected] organizations such as the European small and large. But cooperation journalism produced by an ‘Snowfall’. Large projects threaten to Journalism Centre can be helpful, with philanthropists cannot lead to a ever-shrinking newsroom. become overly complex, which can because it relieves both partners. situation in which journalism becomes overwhelm those involved – and Journalists should embrace philanthropy Philanthropists must understand dependent – because funding that • Philanthropy is an opportunity to their results are often not sustainable that a cooperation with the media doesn’t also increase a media outlet’s but proceed with caution deepen reporting in a specific field or transferable. is per se rooted in a dilemma. The credibility isn’t worth it. Not for the that is already viewed as important, ournalism, it is said, is in crisis. the rise of the right-wing Alternative media wants to, indeed must, retain • Milestones are necessary. The journalists nor for the philanthropists. and not to shift focus to an issue that But that isn’t strictly accurate. for Germany (AfD) party in its autonomy when it comes to process is not a one-way highway. Not for readers nor for democracy. wasn’t previously covered. Why? Journalism is actually beset Germany. We journalists were too choosing which issues to focus on Benchmarks should be identified J Below: The media did not forsee the rise in Because determining which issues by at least two different crises: a convinced that we knew better and and what stories to run – indeed, it and examined to ensure that the to report on is one of the tasks of popularity of the right-wing AfD (Alternative funding crisis and a credibility crisis. didn’t spend enough time actually is this independence that appeals cooperation is still working – and journalism and an expression of for Germany) party in Germany. Philanthropy can help solve both, on the scene. We weren’t curious to philanthropists in the first place. what might need to be fixed. journalistic independence. but it needs to observe certain enough. Our curiosity is why we conditions. enjoy the privilege of immersing ourselves in different worlds in order Both crises have a variety of impacts to provide access to them for others. on the newsroom, both are of And it is this privilege – the time for existential importance and both in-depth reporting – that is the first have a lot to do with each other. thing to be sacrificed to the financial Yet before this article joins the pressures we face. currently omnipresent chorus of lamentation, I would like to Foundation-funded journalism must emphasize that the crises facing understand this situation – it must journalism likewise represent its understand why many publishing greatest opportunity – to return to houses are in the condition they’re its true function in society and vital in. Therein lie the opportunities and role in democracy. Recent months the risks of a cooperation. Such have produced telling examples of funding can only be successful if where the roots of the crises facing both crises are taken into account: journalism are to be found. The the funding crisis – the shortage of media has too often been wrong personnel and resources in addition and it has too often been caught to plummeting subscriptions – and off-guard: by Brexit, by the election the credibility crisis – the difficulties of Donald Trump in the US, and by associated with reaching readers SPECIAL FEATURE: BOUNDARIES FEATURE: SPECIAL 58 59

of the first webinar in our series. Among those represented were the Safeguarding Democracy Fund, the Trusting News project, Outlier Media, the Solutions Journalism Network and the The Guardian Membership Puzzle Project. Fake news The Democracy Fund has been working closely with the Rita Allen ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 The fight against Foundation and the Knight Right: All Foundation to untangle the complex work with ‘fake news’? dynamics of mis- and disinformation, philanthropic and to resource both editorial and partners is transparently technological solutions. In the spring, ‘badged’ and they jointly announced an open call recognized. for applications to a related Prototype Fund. And in September, Knight Rachel White Foundation, the Knight Jessica Clark The role that online platforms play in announced a new Trust, Media and is president of Foundation, the Rockefeller is research director, distributing information is relatively Democracy Initiative (see p43) which theguardian.org. Foundation, the Skoll Foundation, Media Impact neglected, however, these platforms includes that prototype fund and Humanity United, Ford Foundation Funders. are now finding ways to work in rachel.white@ other initiatives. and others to support journalism collaboration with funders, journalists theguardian.com jessica@ and storytelling about issues like and academic researchers to improve While all of this coordinated activity mediafunders.org global development, climate information quality. For example, the bodes well for finding ways to change, women’s rights and human Google News Lab was a founding re-centre facts in our digital Philanthropic support is trafficking. The bedrock of these to work sensitively and thoroughly Helping to re-establish trust in partner of First Draft News, a global discourse, there’s a looming question. not just a lifeline for news partnerships is a shared sense in the pursuit of important coalition of journalism, human rights In a highly polarized moment, can the journalism is essential if its outlets, it can open up of mission and purpose around untold stories. and technology organizations public trust foundations to be the some of the most persistent and audience is to be retained, dedicated to improving reporting custodians of truth? To answer this, new landscapes The underlying premise of all our challenging issues of our time. but can funders establish standards and online information. foundations will need to look not journalism that is supported by Twitter and Facebook have also just at the sometimes dubious t a time when challenges Building on this strong track philanthropy is that it must be their bona fides with the signed on. Funders of the project practices of journalists, platforms, to media independence record, we have established editorially driven and aligned public? include the Craig Newmark government-sponsored trolls, or lax Apollute and distort the theguardian.org which has with The Guardian’s core editorial Philanthropic Fund, and the News news consumers, but at their own. news landscape and traditional tax-exempt status in the US and mission. A rigorous process of due round the world, policymakers, Integrity Initiative, which itself is a Some of this thinking has already revenue models continue to erode, is overseen by an independent diligence and editorial review is scientists and journalists are consortium of foundation and tech started – for example, see the independent media organizations board. This new organization undertaken around all support Agrappling with an epidemic of industry leaders based at City American Press Institute’s Guidance are thinking innovatively about allows us to broaden and diversify to ensure editorial integrity and bad information: propaganda, biased University of New York. on philanthropic funding of media how best to fund high-quality philanthropic support, through independence. And all of our claims, hoaxes and more. The deluge and news, which drew insights from independent journalism. At The a mixture of partnerships and work with philanthropic partners of falsehoods is further amplified by But platforms can only do so much funders about how to preserve Guardian we are pioneering a new grantmaking that will help deliver is transparently ‘badged’ and social sharing among partisans and a to filter or label false information. grantees’ editorial independence model in which philanthropic the hard-hitting storytelling and recognized on the side in line with digital news environment that Ultimately, people need to trust while still holding true to support is part of the mix. independent journalism that The Guardian’s overall content rewards clicks over comprehension. the information they get in order philanthropic goals. Given the readers seek from us. Support funding guidelines, which make For funders, this communications to act upon it and foundations are The Guardian has long roots in shrinking public trust in all institutions, from philanthropy is a small, but clear how the content has been environment is toxic not only for an supporting new ways for outlets and philanthropy. In 1936 the Scott bolstering faith in foundations will important, way in which we are commissioned and produced, informed citizenry, but because reporters to engage audiences and family put its fortune into trust continue to be a challenge. able to ensure deep and sustained and who has funded it. reliable information and rigorous build that trust. This was the subject to preserve the publication, its coverage of topics at the heart of journalism are central to achieving independence and its editorial In collaboration with The Guardian The Guardian’s editorial agenda. many philanthropic goals. That’s why values in perpetuity. The Guardian and other partners, theguardian. many foundations have turned their has one shareholder – The Scott Why should partners work with The org will work to advance and 7 Types of Mis- and Disinformation attention to understanding the Trust – we have no billionaire Guardian to advance story-telling inform public discourse around problem and supporting solutions. False Connection False Manipulated owner, nor are we driven to and reporting that drives discourse some of the most pressing issues Context Content seek private profit. This unique and impact? It’s not simply a case of our time, drive and amplify the At Media Impact Funders, we’ve been When headlines, When genuine When genuine ownership structure has given of our independence, stature, and impact of The Guardian journalism, working with a cohort of foundations visuals or captions content is information or don’t support the shared with imagery is us freedom to produce the kind reach. We’ve also made our name and develop partnerships across on combating misinformation. One content false contextual manipulated to of mission-driven journalism over many decades by being academia, non-profits and other of these is the Hewlett Foundation. information deceive that lends itself well to fearless, progressive and media that share theguardian.org’s Together we’ve organized a series philanthropic support. fair-minded across many topics. aims. Of course, receiving support of three webinars, each of which Our track record in reporting on from philanthropy does not mean examines research and projects Satire or Misleading Imposter Fabricated For the past six years, we have Parody Content Content Content subjects like climate change, global that we would ever shy away from related to different interventions: on sought and received philanthropic No intention Misleading use of When genuine New content, that development and poverty in both criticizing philanthropists or private the content production end of the donations through partnerships to cause harm information to sources are is 100% false, rich and poor nations means that foundations when warranted, and process, on distribution via social but has potential frame an issue impersonated designed to with a range of organizations potential partners and supporters indeed we have done so in the past platforms and on media consumption. to fool or individual deceive and do including the Bill & Melinda Gates harm know they can trust The Guardian on numerous occasions. SPECIAL FEATURE: BOUNDARIES FEATURE: SPECIAL SPECIAL FEATURE: FAKE NEWS 60 61

in Melbourne in 2011. Its mission Here, the philanthropy media has is to work with academics and an important role to play. researchers to provide reliable A Conversation For over 20 years, Alliance has told information to a broad public, the story of global philanthropy based on the premise that just as under the astute guidance of my clean water is vital for health, clean about fake news predecessor Caroline Hartnell. information is essential for healthy Today, our special features and democracy. It now operates in the Last word columns aim to give readers original ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 UK, US, France, Africa, Canada, that we need Funding the and challenging thinking. Meanwhile, Indonesia, New Zealand and in the US, newcomers like Inside Australia. It is now read by more Philanthropy pen crisp, and than 5.8 million users a month to have philanthropy media sometimes, cutting analysis, as do directly and more than 35 million stalwarts like Non-profit Quarterly, via re-publication of its articles Stanford Social Innovation Review on other media websites. and Chronicle of Philanthropy. The funding relationship and But Alliance, for one, could do independence more if it had more resources. The Conversation is funded And it could say more if it had by universities, readers and more independence. foundations so its newsworthy articles can be provided free to Avoiding self-censorship in my those who need them most. editorial judgement is a daily hazard. Misha Ketchell For a nanosecond the words Exactly how critical should we be is editor, The ‘fake news’ accurately described It is an organization well placed Charles Keidan Philanthropy associations and towards the field that sustains us? Conversation an abhorrent development in to work with philanthropists. It Editor, Alliance. consultants can’t either. While they Foundations give us the funding and Australia. public life. Then Donald Trump adopts policies and processes that do provide direction and in some charles@ sponsorship we need to survive – just co-opted the term to attack media ensure funding relationships are cases leadership – Vikki Spruill of misha. alliancemagazine. enough to do our job but not enough outlets, such as CNN and the New transparent. Every academic author the Council on Foundation’s calls ketchell@the org to be fully independent. York Times, whose reporting he has to disclose all relevant sources for greater diversity is one such conversation. disliked. ‘Fake news’ morphed into of funding. The Conversation also example – their primary task is Bruce Sievers and Patrice Schneider edu.au a term of derision, casting a fog of prominently acknowledges its Philanthropy needs to serve members and clients. suggest a model of non-profit confusion and tainting all media university and philanthropic journalism that would be particularly scrutiny; enlightened Philanthropy scholarship can How can you rely on outlets with unreliability. funders, both to give credit where suited to a non-profit philanthropy make an important contribution. it is due and to make it clear to foundations should fund media – the creation of endowments funders, but guard If you’ll indulge on America for just But academic knowledge is readers we have nothing to hide. to provide a regular income stream, against interference? a moment longer, the journalist Kurt our sector’s media under-developed and too weighted As others in this issue have pointed a measure of financial stability, and Anderson recently wrote a terrific towards business schools, which The Conversation has out, a crucial issue in philanthropic some much-needed intellectual and article in The Atlantic describing his he need for informed and tend to be naturally partial to a way to make it work funding of media is the distinction editorial freedom. country’s unique and longstanding rigorous coverage of philanthropy. between financial dependence and preference for fantasy over reality. Tphilanthropy is greater than But it takes a special kind of nyone looking for evidence editorial independence. Editorial So what about the popular media ‘How America lost its mind’ is a ever. As philanthropy grows in power foundation to enable journalism that that public discourse can’t policies create a clear boundary and the philanthropy media? rigorous history of American and influence, assumes new forms takes a critical view of its work. Yet Ahandle complex ideas need between funders and the editorial magical thinking that ends with a and takes root in new markets, Sadly, popular coverage lacks the field’s long-term wellbeing will be look no further than the rapid decision-making process. A call for ‘new protocols for media who is going to tell the story of curiosity about the field’s served by backing the infrastructure demise of the term ‘fake news’ detailed profile also lists each hygiene’ and a grassroots movement philanthropy and hold it to account? institutions, systems, dynamics and and eco-system of philanthropy in 2017. After the 2016 US academic’s publications and ‘that insists on distinguishing Who will raise a mirror to the field? people. This might change now that media. That could prove a more presidential election, BuzzFeed qualifications so readers can between the factually true and prominent titles like The Washington enlightened use of funding than journalist Craig Silverman assess for themselves the Arguably, philanthropists in the blatantly false’. Post, The Atlantic, and London’s spending charitable resources on investigated a wave of academic’s expertise. particular need a dose of critique and Evening Standard are owned by public relations firms to promote demonstrably false stories about The Conversation is a global cross-examination because they lack Working closely with many philanthropists, while others like one’s own programmes to media Hillary Clinton that circulated network of media websites that the feedback loops of ballot boxes foundations and universities, The Guardian and Spiegel are that don’t have sufficient capacity during the campaign. He has been in the vanguard of such and bottom lines that – at least in this brand of quality journalism funded by professionally-run to do them justice. discovered that many of these a movement since it was launched theory – hold those in government provides essential context to foundations. But while these stories had been produced by and business to account. A more informed debate would help people make sense of a developments will increase interest a small group of teenagers in enrich all sides by giving the public complex and confusing barrage So who can be philanthropy’s in philanthropy, they could make Macedonia who had figured out and practitioners alike greater insight of information. Along the way critical friend? objective coverage harder, not there was money to be made into philanthropy’s potential and it aims to help political leaders easier, notwithstanding efforts by feeding the more fantastical Foundation grantees can’t. The limitations. At present, philanthropy make better decisions and to ensure safeguards between beliefs of the alt-right. Silverman ‘Fake news’ morphed into dominant relationship between lacks the mirror it needs and provide essential insights into our funding and editorial content. coined the term ‘fake news’ to funders and grantees makes deserves. a term of derision, casting environment, our culture and our describe these stories. It referred feedback hard. If you’re on a So if no one enjoys absolute a fog of confusion and history. One day it might even help specifically to articles made up by starvation diet of short-term independence, how can put an end to fake news – however people who knew they were false. tainting all media outlets grants, it’s inadvisable to bite independent coverage of you define it. with unreliability. the hand that feeds you. philanthropy be sustained? SPECIAL FEATURE: FAKE NEWS SPECIAL FEATURE: LAST WORD 62 63

Smart risks: how small grants Published by The Philanthropic Mind – Dog Ear Publishing are helping to solve some of the Price

ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 Surprising discoveries from $23.95 world’s biggest problems Canada’s top philanthropists ISBN 9781457539916 Edited by Jennifer Lentfer and To order Chuck English and Mo Lidsky www.thephilanthropicmind.com Tanya Cothran

personal in its presentation of philanthropists. The quotes throughout the text Published by document the interviewing skills of the Practical Action Publishing authors. A good example is the chapter Price ‘It’s all about the right person’, in which Hardcover $67.80 several interviewees describe the ISBN importance of who actually asks them Reviewed by 9781853399312 for a major gift. In ‘How not to get the Michael gift’ donors openly talk about mistakes To order Alberg- Reviewed by in their giving, as well as their experiences www.developmentbookshelf.com Seberich John Harvey with fundraising professionals. This book is an express Most chapters end with references to Smart risks: how small grants and support the local processes collaborative, the writing style is introduction to private (academic) research on, for instance, are helping to solve some of that build upon communities’ unique non-academic and somewhat philanthropy in Canada – a country that, why people give or why donors burn the world’s biggest problems has strengths, resources and ideas. Smart journalistic, chapters often opening so far, has not been on the radar in most out. Other chapters end with brief an unusual origin story. One of its risks also require trust in the analysis with a personal scene-setting works on private giving. Fundraising stories that contextualize, for instance editors, a passionate writer herself, and strategies of grassroots partners paragraph. A number of text boxes and marketing adviser Chuck English ‘The mystery of marketing material’. put out a call to colleagues to join a and the courage and humility to scattered throughout add practical and investment adviser Mo Lidsky writers’ collaborative for international accept that the best solutions advice and are strong additions to For a reader not from Canada or interviewed more than 40 Canadian grantmakers, its aim being two-fold: often come from the ground up.’ the main chapters. North America, the book raises a donors for this book. They use these to use creative writing as a tool for couple of questions. Most of the As every author shares, such letting The book’s subtitle, referring as it does interviews as a basis for observations on learning about global philanthropy, donors interviewed talk about gifts go is much easier said than done. The to ‘small grants’, is not ideal. While all donor characteristics in general, advice and to document the impact of ‘small to universities, hospitals and large book’s chapters document numerous the chapters happen to describe for fundraisers on how to appeal to grants’, a topic not well covered art institutions – prime recipients of impediments: bureaucracy, a Western experiences with small grants, what is such donors, and recommendations within mainstream philanthropic and private giving in Canada. In addition preference for linear processes, an most important in the stories is not for donors on their giving. This is an development literature. most of the donors have taken on roles inability to trust, intellectual and the how much, but the how: the ways ambitious goal for a relatively short as fundraisers for such institutions. The result of this endeavour is a cultural arrogance, ‘obsessive in which enabling a local community’s book of less than 150 pages. The openness with which authors new publication that should be measurement disorder’… the list strengths, resources and ideas best The authors identify 19 topics and interviewees discuss this practice of great interest to the global of challenges is indeed long. guarantee success. Indeed, one quite concerning the philanthropy of high may be a starting point for greater philanthropy community. In all, more refreshing chapter pushes back on the While all authors assert the net-worth individuals, starting out with reflection on the societal effects of than 20 individuals with a combined cult of small grantmaking: ‘There are primacy of local leadership, some ‘You can’t judge the philanthropist’s this practice in further publications. development-related experience times when small is too small. Where acknowledge that outsiders can, playbook by its cover’ and closing with of over 125 years contributed. communities have historically been The Philanthropic Mind may have taken under the right circumstances, bring ‘Philanthropists are just people’. This Documenting their many lessons under-resourced, it is important and on too big a task. It is, in the end, a value. Among the assets highlighted language indicates an advisory tone. learned – often after disappointment strategic to guard against book for fundraising professionals. are the ability to connect and and failure – is indeed an important over-romanticizing small grants and The uniqueness of The Philanthropic It certainly speaks to them when it convene, to bring models and lessons contribution to our sector. sacrificing impact.’ My hope is that Mind is the qualitative base. The describes the ‘point that is at the heart learned from elsewhere, and to ask this subtitle doesn’t dissuade larger authors have woven their interview of this book’ as ‘fundraisers will only be The ‘smart risks’ of the title vary questions that insiders may not be grantmakers from picking up this material deeply into the well-written successful when they approach the somewhat from author to author, but able to. book. Truly, the key learnings in this text. One third of the book is philanthropist with the thoughtfulness the common ground among all is this: The book’s chapters are, for the most worthwhile publication are as vital to quotations. Donors are introduced and sensitivity he or she deserves’. For making a contrast with conventional part, case studies, anecdotes, and the Gates and Wellcome Trusts of the by name and a short biography, other readers the book gives an insight development aid and global stories. Not surprisingly given the world as they are to the smallest of with a more detailed biography in the into Canada’s overall culture philanthropy, the editors state that book’s origins as a creative writing grantmakers. appendix. The book therefore is rather of philanthropy. ‘Smart risks start “where people are” Book reviews 64 LOOKING Convenings debate AHEAD… ALLIANCE | DECEMBER 2017 non-profit journalism Guest Editor March 2018 diasporas worldwide, and creating new configurations of diaspora Claire Hoffman the media, the lowest figure efforts, including NewsMatch Mark Sidel Diaspora philanthropy. In this special feature, of the Goldhirsh in the history of such polling. – a collaboration between the Alliance editor Charles Keidan Doyle-Bascom professor of law Foundation writes: In these circumstances, how Democracy Fund, the Knight and guest editor Mark Sidel of the and public affairs, University of philanthropy can philanthropists support an Foundation and the MacArthur University of Wisconsin-Madison Over the last six months, I’ve Wisconsin-Madison empowered, intelligent press? Foundation that provides up to Heightened levels of migration, and the International Center for participated in two panels on An idea that surfaced from the $3 million in matching funds to significantly greater movements Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL) highlight non-profit journalism and panel was voiced by Steve support non-profit news of capital across borders, the the new terrain of diaspora philanthropy. I see non-profit Coll, dean of the Columbia organizations – and InterNews, engagement of younger and philanthropy, and profile voices, journalism as a response to Graduate School of Journalism. which helps refugees arriving in newer philanthropists and social thinking and philanthropic action two related crises. The first is He suggested that part of the Greece to get information entrepreneurs, and technological from diverse diaspora communities the proliferation of news erosion of trust in media is that critical to their survival, innovation are re-shaping around the world. outlets on the web, which is much of it comes from coastal alongside the news they receive threatening the business cities and is not representative on their mobile phones from model of traditional media of the country. In response, other local news sources. outlets. In the last year, a ProPublica has recently second crisis has surfaced, Both these conversations asked for proposals from a crisis in the credibility underscored that independent smaller news organizations and independence of the non-profit journalism is to fund a year-long, press itself. important in the social change ProPublica-style investigative tool chest to educate and The first panel – organized project in their town. empower people. by the Synergos Global The next panel was staged by Philanthropy Circle – met in The Philanthropy Workshop in http://tinyurl.com/ March, at a time when a recent July. It centered more on Hoffman-NPJ Gallup Poll had found that only emerging philanthropic Coming up in Alliance Extra… 32 per cent of Americans trust • Philanthropy Thinker Krystian Seibert on funding in indigenous communities and He Jin Dates for on the proliferation of foundations in China your diary • CAF’s Rhodri Davies and journalist Fran Yeoman react to our special feature on philanthropy and the media • Announcement of the finalists of the 2018 NEXUS Asia Summit 5th Olga Alexeeva Memorial Prize 23–25 March 2018 All content delivered straight to your inbox. Bali, Indonesia Subscribe today and make sure you keep up to date with philanthropy and social investment worldwide.

Confluence Philanthropy’s 8th Jewish Funders Dasra alliancemagazine.org/subscribe Annual Practitioners Network International Philanthropy Gathering Conference Forum Alliance magazine (ISSN 1359-4621) ©Alliance Publishing Trust 2017. Company No 5935154. Charity No 1116744. 13–15 March 2018 11–15 March 2018 24 February 2018 Statements of fact and opinion appearing in Alliance are made on the responsibility of the authors alone and do not imply the endorsement of the

Conferences Berkeley, California US Tel Aviv, Israel Mumbai, India publisher. Alliance has certain restrictions on how our content can be reproduced, please see the footer on our website for full terms and conditions. Join the Alliance magazine relies on the generosity of our sponsor subscribers. They help to support the core work of Alliance to promote discussion of philanthropy and social investment around the world. To find out more please contact Alliance David Drewery [email protected]

Alliance receives Adessium Charles King Baudouin William & financial support Foundation Stewart Mott Foundation Flora Hewlett from: Foundation Foundation Bernard Network of van Leer European European Foundation Foundation Foundations Centre

Alliance is Aga Khan Foundation Conrad N Hilton Pro Victimis sponsored by: Arab Foundations Forum Foundation Riksbankens Asian Venture Esmeé Fairbairn Jubileumsfond Philanthropy Network Foundation Rockefeller Brothers Barrow Cadbury Trust European Cultural Fund Bertelsmann Stiftung Foundation Rockefeller Foundation Big Lottery Fund F B Heron Foundation Rockefeller Philanthropy BNP Paribas Foundation North Advisors Calouste Gulbenkian Fritt Ord Sabanci Foundation Foundation Global Greengrants Sainsbury Family Cariplo Foundation Fund Charitable Trust Centre for Social Lodestar Foundation Shared Impact Impact (NZ) McKnight Foundation Shell Foundation Charities Aid Foundation Nordea Fonden Silicon Valley Community City Bridge Trust Oak Foundation Foundation Compagnia di San Paulo Paul Hamlyn Foundation Stars Foundation Pears Foundation UBS Posner Wallace World Bank Foundation