Purpose of the study: Even though studies on philanthropy have flourished in recent times, not much is known empirically about its impact on female labour force participation in Ghana. This study examines the impact of philanthropy on female labour force participation in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach: We applied a qualitative method of study; semi-structured interviews were used to collect data from thirty (30) women in the Sekyere Kumawu District in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. 

Findings: According to thematic content analysis of data, we found that philanthropy enhances the punctuality of women to work, supports the budget of women for work, improves service delivery at work, motivates women to work and ensures continuous participation of women in the labour force. Further, it was evident that philanthropy addresses challenges of female labour force participation through the provision of free transportation to work, donation of logistics for work, public education, and sponsorships of various kinds.

Recommendations/value: However, the research was constrained by a lack of geographical representation of data for women in Ghana as participants were mostly teachers or nurses in the Sekyere Kumawu District of Ghana. Future studies should address this challenge.

Managerial implications: The findings contribute to the literature and have policy implications for the government in developing a regulatory framework to promote philanthropy and female labour force participation in Ghana, and practitioners of philanthropy and women empowerment.