Evolving challenges facing philanthropy infrastructure organisations
While PIOs perform a wide range of functions aimed at strengthening the philanthropic sector, they are grappling with persistent and evolving challenges.
At the forefront, the most pressing challenge is building awareness of philanthropy's added value. In our survey, over half (52%) of PIOs identified this as their top struggle – a slight increase compared to previous years – highlighting how crucial it is for the sector to communicate clearly and convincingly the unique contributions philanthropy makes to society. This awareness is foundational: Without it, the license of philanthropy to operate will be at risk.
Closely tied to this is the challenge of strengthening PIOs' position in the eyes of their stakeholders: The percentage of survey respondents identifying this as a "most pressing challenge" has risen significantly – from 23% in 2023 to 40% in 2025. This shift signals growing concerns about the willingness of key partners to invest in the sector's shared infrastructure.
Most pressing challenges
2025
2023
Building awareness of philanthropy's added value
Strengthening our position (as a PIO) in the eyes of our stakeholders
Lack of data on philanthropy in the country
n/a
Digitalisation and keeping up with technological advancements
Engaging members who are less active
Financial stability and organisational resilience
The lack of reliable data on philanthropy in many countries (36%) compounds all of the other issues by hampering evidence-based decision-making, advocacy and the ability to demonstrate the contributions of philanthropy to the common good. Without strong data, building awareness becomes even more difficult.
Beyond the top three challenges, about one-third of PIOs face the following additional challenges which are related to internal resilience:
- Digitalisation and keeping pace with technological advancements (32%) have become essential for operational efficiency and member engagement, but remain a hurdle.
- Engaging members who are less active (32%) hampers the possibility of showcasing the wide diversity of the philanthropic practice at country level.
- Financial stability and organisational resilience (32%) are ongoing concerns, especially given shifting funding landscapes and the impact of major international donors ending programmes.
Further, about a quarter of respondents highlighted struggles with balancing short-term needs against a long-term vision, managing a constant sense of emergency, attracting new members, and navigating a heterogeneous membership base with diverse interests and needs.
