2026 Trends in Philanthropy | |
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For the course of 2026, we are covering three main themes that we think will define philanthropy this year, and likely the years to come.
We start by exploring topics related to the power dynamics that are inherent in philanthropy and the relationships between funders and grantees.
The second part of the year will focus on putting theory into action. We will explore navigating the challenging discussions related to getting more "bang for your social buck." Also what it looks like to be a funder that supports pivots and failures.
We will end the year with an exploration into collaborative funding models at the systems level.
Throughout all of this, we will bring together funders to share what they are working on and learn from each other. Be it in our periodic, "In Conversation With..." series, special events and coffees or presentations and workshops hosted by other organizations.
Stay connected - make sure you join our mailing list!
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2026 Trends in Philanthropy
The calendar has turned, and with it comes a fresh wave of strategic planning, board retreats, and budget approvals. But 2026 is not simply an extension of the past few years. The landscape of Canadian philanthropy is shifting in three fundamental ways:
- Flow of capital and change in power dynamics,
- Moving away from impact reporting to learning systems, and
- Redefining what it means to collaborate and connect.
This year will demand a new level of courage, clarity, and openness from foundations and major donors.
| | Beyond the Annual Report: Why Money Doesn't Equal Impact | |
Many people believe that more money automatically translates to a more significant impact when donating to a charity. While funding is essential, simply writing a larger cheque doesn’t guarantee proportionally better results.
For those serious about achieving the best possible outcomes with their resources, it’s crucial to understand why this is the case and where to focus efforts for maximum effect.
| Where To Find Us (Feb - June) | |
With clients across Canada and family members around the globe our team is on the move.
Join us where we set up shop!
- Calgary - February, March and June
- Vancouver & Vancouver Island - April and May
- Toronto - May
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Coffee Klatch with Dollar A Day Foundation
January kicked off with a coffee at Mobsquad Cafe along with a number of family foundations who are supporting organizations in the Mental Health sector across Canada. Joining us was Alan Doyle, founder of A Dollar a Day Foundation and their Executive Director, Heather Spratt.
The conversation covered a variety of topics: how to create a movement of donors across Canada, the role that funders play in coordinating funding, how to evaluate organizations and projects, and the role funders play in mitigating duplication of services and care in the various areas that are supported.
We host these types of events throughout the year in various cities. They are spurred on by our clients who want to connect with other funders and industry experts.
| | Interested in having an in-person Coffee Klatch in your community? Reach out. We're happy to facilitate a discussion. | | |
The National Mental Health Datathon was a three-week, national-scale initiative bringing together over 600 volunteer data analysts in 100 teams from across Canada. The Datathon launched with hybrid kickoff events in Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton, Waterloo, Ottawa, Montreal, Saskatchewan, and the Maritimes, complemented by a national virtual launch.
We look forward to coordinating and supporting more of these cross-funder projects can show demonstrable change in the areas they are interested in supporting. Curious what this could look like for your foundation? Drop us a line!
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Feb. 10 - 5:30pm in Calgary
Sold Out!
Private Screening - Journey to Give A Mile
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We are pleased to be co-hosting an event with Mobsquad as Give A Mile celebrates a decade of family reunification.
While the event is sold out, you can still make a donation to support Give A Mile.
| |  | Feb. 28 - Noon in Calgary Les Enfants Terrible Fund is hosting a Daytime Rave | |
Sponsored by Say Cheese and Knifewear, this annual Rave & Cheese fest is perfect for the WHOLE family.
Funds raised will be directed through Les Enfants Terrible to Education Matters. An organization supporting Calgary's youth in the public school system.
Details:
February 28th, Noon - 4pm
Say Cheese at Crossroads Market
1235 26 Ave SE, Calgary, AB
Admission by donation.
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April 7 - 11:30am - 2pm
Vancouver, BC
Estate Planning Council of Vancouver Luncheon
The Fiduciary Edge: Navigating Complex Capital & Governance for Modern Legacies
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Have you ever looked across the table at your clients and wondered if what you are saying is landing? How is your message being heard and understood? Why might your recommendations not be implemented or even taken into consideration?
Through the lens of family philanthropy and the family foundation we will explore the "Gremlins" in the room that, when called attention to, can move your client relationship from surface-level, to become the trusted advisor at a multi-generational level.
This presentation focuses directly on the critical shift in clients' demands from the rising generation and wealth inheritors.
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April 8 - 10am via Zoom
In Conversation With... Alan Doyle - The Power of One
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Ever wonder what drives people in the public eye to do some of the amazing things they do? Join us for a front-row seat as Alan Doyle (Great Big Sea) shares what inspired him to launch A Dollar A Day Foundation. More importantly, how he engages Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast to join him in his efforts.
Today, thousands of donors follow Alan's lead, raising over $6,000,000 for mental health and addictions. This conversation will dive into motivations and lessons learned about being a philanthropist, a movement maker and a Newfoundlander in Canada.
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Need a Speaker who Knows the Business of Philanthropy?
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Stop funding problems. Start financing solutions.
"Why do we still have the same problems we were trying to solve 50 years ago?"
That is the question Gena Rotstein of Karma & Cents asks audiences to help them rethink their approach to giving.
In a world filled with complex social issues—from food security to mental health—traditional philanthropy often falls short. K&C acts as a bridge, helping donors, foundations, and businesses connect their capital to solutions that actually stick.
Karma & Cents team members are now accepting bookings for 2026/27 speaking engagements.
Known for work in:
- "Wicked Problem" funding models
- Social Impact Lab facilitation and design
- Family legacy and foundation strategies
If you are looking for a speaker who brings both heart (Karma) and data (Cents), book a session for your event today.
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