Convergence of Venture Capital, Philanthropy, and Social Innovation  Project

This project examines how venture capitalists and family foundations contribute to mission-oriented avenues. It seeks to understand the role of philanthropy in driving large-scale social change during times of crisis by uncovering innovative models of capital deployment that create public (shared) value and bring about lasting, positive change in underserved communities.

The project assesses new forms of wealth creation and philanthropy by moving beyond the binary of financial return versus social impact. It aims to understand how venture capitalists and philanthropic institutions, together with their family offices and private foundations, collectively redefine economic systems by fostering inclusive growth, social resilience, and sustainable development.

Against the backdrop of declining investment flows and reductions in development assistance, the study considers new sources of funding for Africa’s development. It contends that philanthropy has a powerful supplementary and catalytic role in promoting enterprise development and social innovation and examines how governments can create enabling conditions for venture capital and venture philanthropy to address social challenges related to climate change, water, education, and other development priorities across the African continent.