About Philanthropy SA

Philanthropy SA is the gateway to the world of philanthropy and grantmaking in South Africa.

The site was initiated by Inyathelo: The South African Institute for Advancement as part of its efforts to grow local philanthropic giving to support a strong, vibrant and sustainable civil society in South Africa.

In the past, substantial funding for South African NGOs has come from international sources, but this is rapidly decreasing. We need to grow local philanthropy if we want to sustain our civil society and ensure that our democracy survives.

Besides the useful news and resources on this website, the annual Inyathelo Philanthropy Awards help build awareness of philanthropy and profile role models of good philanthropic practice. The monthly Philanthropy SA Newsletter also provides up-to-date news of giving initiatives, events, philanthropy debates, innovative ideas and examples of effective grantmaking practices.

We would like to thank the DG Murray Trust for its support in building up this valuable resource and we hope Philanthropy SA will energise local philanthropic giving, encourage investment in our civil society, grow leaders in “giving to effect change”, and build bridges between those who need and those can give in South Africa.

Shelagh Gastrow
Executive Director, Inyathelo