Hazel Hennessy
Head of Communications and Relationships
Ireland’s corporate philanthropy is driving social impact, shaping a better future for communities nationwide.
Corporate philanthropy in Ireland is a powerful yet underestimated force for social good. Research from Philanthropy Ireland reveals that our corporate members accounted for 56% of the €919 million in philanthropic funding from members awarded between 2023 and 2024. This statistic underscores the central role that corporate giving plays in Ireland’s philanthropy ecosystem, driving meaningful social and community impact nationwide.
Many of our members support businesses in building structured, purpose-led giving programmes. Acting as intermediaries and advisers, these organisations guide corporates to engage in philanthropy that aligns with their values and with social needs, ensuring that giving is not only generous but also strategic, sustainable and transformative.
A uniquely Irish pathway
Ireland’s philanthropic landscape has a distinctive characteristic: corporate philanthropy often serves as an entry point to personal and family giving. Much of Ireland’s wealth is relatively new and self-made, and many business leaders begin with philanthropy through their companies. Over time, as they retire or sell their businesses, they often establish their own family or personal foundations, trusts or funds.
Ireland’s philanthropic landscape has a distinctive characteristic: corporate
philanthropy often serves as an entry point to personal and family giving.
This interconnectedness means that corporate and individual philanthropy cannot be fully separated in the Irish context. However, while multinational corporations often speak openly about their giving, reflecting US cultural norms, indigenous Irish companies are less likely to label their social investments as philanthropy. Yet, many Irish-owned businesses are quietly creating real, lasting impact through thoughtful, values-driven giving.
Real impact and future potential
Corporate philanthropy’s potential is visible in the work of Philanthropy Ireland members. Some examples include basis.point, which enables its corporate patrons to open educational opportunities for young people from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The Irish Online Giving Foundation, which encourages employee engagement through payroll giving, embedding generosity across all business levels, and the Vodafone Foundation, which supports older people by helping them access digital technology, bridging social and digital divides.
The message is clear: corporate philanthropy. Both indigenous and multinational companies have enormous potential to shape Ireland’s future for the better. Realising this potential requires a strong, dynamic philanthropy ecosystem where intermediaries, advisers and charity partners work together to steward and enable corporate giving, ensuring every euro invested creates meaningful and lasting social good.
