In the world of philanthropy, an increasing percentage of uber-wealthy donors—many of whom have noticed progress in the number of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals—are seeking out worthy causes that deliver global health impact. And that’s heartening news for nonprofits in health and social equity.
Journalist Matt Petronzio covers the news in a recent Mashable article.
According to the 2015 BNP Paribas Individual Philanthropy Index, which surveyed 400 philanthropists with at least $5 million in investable assets in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, health issues remain the most-supported cause across all four regions.

BNP Paribus Individual Philanthropy Index chart. Infographic: Statista.
Petronzio also noted some interesting trends among billionaires in the report.
The Index also found an activist streak growing among billionaires. Around 52% of respondents saw “impact/mission investing” as the most promising trend in philanthropy. Impact investing means pouring money in socially responsible companies to prioritize social and environmental returns, even if it meant lower financial returns—a radical change from previous decades in which financial returns were the main consideration.
The survey results are good news for David Wu, chief development officer at PATH, who’s quick to point out that many of PATH’s supporters, regardless of their level of income, give because they’re concerned about health equity around the world.
“To our donors, philanthropy is increasingly focused on impact and on long-term, sustainable solutions. They understand that health is inextricably connected to poverty and social equity—and they’re engaged on a global level.”
David adds that PATH’s recently announced Reach Campaign will carry the organization’s impact even farther by making progress against the issues at the root of health inequity.
“PATH’s donors approach their involvement as partners, investing in the opportunity to influence not just health, but development and social justice as well.”
Read this story in its entirety at Mashable. You may also download the complete report from Forbes Insights after providing an email sign up.
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