There are a wide variety of options for how to give and the choice the philanthropist makes will be guided by her values, experience and circumstances. The key point is that not all giving makes the world a better place. The care, thoughtfulness and diligence that is applied in how the philanthropist gives will determine to a great extent whether her efforts result in social development that is positive.

• Approach to philanthropy and the principles of giving adopted will influence the grant-making process significantly.
• Starting point is to become educated. Researching, planning, analysing and mapping is necessary. Evidence-based funding, rather than funding based only onr a “gut feel”, a relationship, or a desire, will have a better outcome and be a more strategic investment.
• Consequently, the philanthropist requires up-to-date knowledge and should perform the necessary due diligence on all proposals and projects.
• Reaching out to other stakeholders in the sector and building those relationships will help immensely in this analysis as well as for the future
• Approach to philanthropy and the principles of giving adopted will influence the grant-making process significantly.
• Starting point is to become educated. Researching, planning, analysing and mapping is necessary. Evidence-based funding, rather than funding based only onr a “gut feel”, a relationship, or a desire, will have a better outcome and be a more strategic investment.
• Consequently, the philanthropist requires up-to-date knowledge and should perform the necessary due diligence on all proposals and projects.
• Reaching out to other stakeholders in the sector and building those relationships will help immensely in this analysis as well as for the future success of her programmes or projects.