In 2020, the Milken Institute Center for Strategic Philanthropy (CSP) published 'Stepping Off the Sidelines: The Unrealized Potential of Ultra-High-Net-Worth Philanthropy'. This landscape report provided a holistic view of the giving trends and approaches of high-capacity philanthropists. We analyzed a number of best practices and offered recommendations on how donors can adopt them into their own philanthropy.

The world today looks very different from a few years ago, and philanthropic capital is more important than ever. Despite initial giving spikes at the onset of COVID-19, charitable giving levels for individuals have not meaningfully increased in a sustained way. What’s more, the world’s wealthiest have expanded their personal fortunes, and the total number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWI) has increased. Unlocking the potential of UHNW philanthropy remains a critical need for the social sector.

This companion resource spotlights the strategic approaches of high-impact philanthropists. We hope it helps equip emerging philanthropists further with the knowledge and tools necessary to channel their resources for good.