About

The Erasmus Centre for Strategic Philanthropy (ECSP) aims to contribute to the overall performance and effectiveness of the philanthropy sector by building knowledge, capabilities and tools through rigorous academic research; by offering dedicated high quality education; and by encouraging interaction and debate about philanthropy and its impact on society.

ECSP operates with a European scope. It addresses the challenges and needs of all philanthropic organisations in Europe, which annually contribute over 50 billion euro to a large variety of projects. The services of the Centre are of a high international standard as they are backed by an innovative academic research program focused on practical and impact-oriented issues within philanthropy.

Management of philanthropic organisations
Our focus is on the management of grant making foundations as well as foundations that are engaged in the implementation of philanthropic projects (operating foundations and charitable organisations). ECSP aims to help these philanthropic organizations determine how they can make a sustainable difference by improving their strategy, management and internal organization. Additionally, we ask how management concepts and findings – about for instance successful (social) entrepreneurial activity, human resource management, management of change, leadership in diverse teams, and sustainable development – can be actively and effectively applied in the philanthropic sector.

Impact and performance measurement
ECSP further concentrates on the processes constituting the philanthropy value cycle, taking an econometric perspective. Using advanced techniques for modelling and quantitative analysis, we focus on opportunities to better assess the performance of the sector and individual organizations, seeking to inspire alternative ways of working, with improved efficiency and effectiveness.

Such analyses do not only address the question of organizational performance, but also the impact of philanthropic organizations on society at large. Questions that we ask are for instance: What are suitable indicators to measure performance in the philanthropic sector? Which approaches yield lasting effects in society? Which types of partnerships enable the successful implementation of joint projects? What are the most effective ways to disseminate results? What are the main reasons projects fail, and what are effective approaches to mitigate risks?

Main channels
ECSP intends to contribute to the quality and effectiveness of the philanthropic sector through four main channels:

• Research
  
  We will set up various research programs in line with the ECSP’s goals and the expertise in management and economics present at Erasmus University’s RSM and ESE. These research programs will be determined and executed independently, but we do pursue collaboration with organizations in the philanthropic sector.
  
  With the outcome of the research programs, ECSP aims to expand its knowledge about best practice in philanthropy. This knowledge can be applied to organizations in the philanthropic sector in order to improve their management, organization and impact. It will also be utilized for the Centre’s Education program.
  
  
• Education
  
  ECSP offers students at Erasmus University the opportunity to learn about Strategic Philanthropy. Initially, the focus is on Electives within the Bachelor and Master programs at ESE and RSM.
  
  In addition, we will set up Executive Education programs for board members and executives from the philanthropic sector. These programs will combine academic education with peer to peer learning.
  
  
• Advice
  
  ECSP aims to become an important independent advisory body for both newly starting and existing foundations. Our advice will be based upon the Centre’s knowledge, expertise and network.
  
  
• Platform
  
  ECSP aims to create a platform where different organisations within the philanthropic sector can come together to help improve the sector, exchange knowledge, and cooperate effectively.