Women providing philanthropic leadership to deliver inclusive, long-term social change

Posted on: 05 March 2026

Women philanthropists in Ireland are values driven, deeply engaged and seeking to deliver inclusive, long-term social change as well as support for front-line services, according to new research from Trinity College Dublin.

The study is the first in-depth qualitative exploration of contemporary women’s philanthropy in Ireland. It was conducted by Trinity Business School’s Centre for Social Innovation in partnership with Community Foundation Ireland and Trinity Development and Alumni.

The report, entitled ‘Women and Philanthropy in Ireland: From hidden presence to recognised influence’, was launched by Professor Mary McAleese, Chancellor of Trinity, at an event yesterday morning [March 4^th].

The study involved a review of existing research, consultation with international scholars and practitioners, and 38 semi-structured interviews (30 women philanthropists and eight philanthropic advisors). 

Identifying patterns of engagement and key factors and motivations, the report provides new insights into how women in Ireland engage with, shape, and lead philanthropy.

Denise Charlton, Community Foundation Ireland; Chancellor Mary McAleese; Provost Dr Linda Doyle and Kate Bond, Trinity Development and Alumni.

Ireland has a long tradition of generosity rooted in community, religion, and voluntary action, but organised philanthropy, particularly women’s philanthropy, has received little academic or policy attention, explains co-author of the report Dr Gemma Donnelly-Cox, Associate Professor, Centre for Social Innovation in Trinity Business School.

“Our research finds that women in Ireland are giving in ways that are thoughtful, values-driven, personal and strategic. They contribute financial support, time, networks, advocacy, and leadership. 

“We also find that many aim to address systemic challenges, invest in long-term solutions, and strengthen communities locally, nationally, and globally. There is a clear giving journey, from early experiences, to building trust, engaging with organisations, and leaving a legacy.”

Key findings:

• Women are highly engaged philanthropists donating significant financial resources as well as contributing time, expertise, networks and advocacy.
• Women are strategic philanthropists seeking impactful systemic, long-term solutions.
• Women’s philanthropic journeys often paralleled life journeys, changing to mirror what is important in their life at the time.
• Women have a strong cultural preference for discretion; however, some women increasingly embrace visibility to inspire others.

Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Ireland, said: "In Community Foundation Ireland, we see women in philanthropy delivering real and transformative impact. Children and women are accessing trauma supports, places of safety and greater legal protections from gender-based violence. Education, training and work are more accessible. Local and national climate actions are happening.

“This research shows core values, personal and family experiences and a desire to better understand key issues all motivate women’s giving. Women philanthropists contribute far more than financial support – they also invest their time, energy and skills."

Dr Sheila Cannon, Associate Professor, Centre for Social Innovation in Trinity Business School, and co-author of the report, said: “This research challenges outdated assumptions about women’s giving. Women in Ireland are not passive donors. They are strategic, values-driven and deeply engaged in shaping social change. Women’s giving is often large in scale. As Ireland builds its philanthropic ecosystem, this report identifies women not as a niche group but as a strategic force in driving inclusive, long-term social change.

“This study addresses a critical evidence gap by exploring how women in Ireland engage with and shape philanthropy today. Further research is now needed for expanded philanthropy mapping, longitudinal research, and comparative international studies to deepen understanding of women’s philanthropic impact.”

Provost of Trinity College Dublin, Dr Linda Doyle, said: “It is really important to acknowledge the role of women in philanthropy. There is clearly a need now for further research and deeper analysis of women’s philanthropic impact.”

‘Women and Philanthropy in Ireland: From hidden presence to recognised influence’ was authored by Dr Sheila Cannon, Dr Gemma Donnelly-Cox, Dr Maria Gallo, and Lian Wang. Read the full report on the Trinity Business School website and the Community Foundation website. 

• Tags:
• Business
• Community
• Research