As we look back on last year and dive into this year, we’re proud of what we’ve built together.

In 2025, we supported 613 clients across 32 countries, facilitated $55M in foundation grants, and continued to expand our international reach. We also saw strong year-on-year growth, with a 30% increase in grants and a 23% increase in fund holders, alongside a full calendar of conferences, forums, and events worldwide.

These results reflect the trust of our clients, the strength of our partnerships, and the dedication of our international team in advancing effective, cross-border philanthropy.

We look forward to building on this momentum in 2026.

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View the infographic in the carousel below, or click the button to open it as a PDF.

Global Philanthropy Trends

From changes in donor participation trends in Canada to the advent of inventive digital giving platforms in America, to the rise of family offices in Hong Kong to the draft European Cross-Border Association (ECBA) Directive for philanthropy in Europe, as well as cross-cutting issues such as transparency, impact and innovation, our team are offering insights into philanthropic trends and strategies around the world.

View Trends

Please fill out the information below to read our views on the likely trends in international philanthropy for this year and feel free to share your views on the coming year with us, as well, either by email or via comments on LinkedIn.

We would love to hear your thoughts on these trends.

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Introduction

Fundraising is essential to the health of any non-profit organisation. While domestic fundraising is relatively straightforward, international fundraising requires a more deliberate, strategic approach.

Done correctly, international fundraising can create a significant impact on your organisation.

Our team of international fundraising experts have collated their tips on creating an effective internationalfundraising action plan.

1. Identify your target fundraising locations

The first step in creating an effective international fundraising action plan is to identify the regions you want to target. The most obvious choice is countries with a significant concentration of stakeholders or constituents. But it’s also important to identify other countries where your organisation has supporters or where your mission resonates.

2. Determine your international donor constituencies

Identifying potential donors is critical to international fundraising success. They may be school alumni, patrons or visitors to an institution, or those who have demonstrated an interest in a particular cause. Research donor behaviour in their countries, and identify the best ways to engage them. You can use data analytics to determine specific donor preferences and create targeted engagement opportunities for maximum impact.

3. Choose your fundraising methods

After identifying your donor constituencies, choose fundraising methods that match their profiles. These methods can include events, major gifts, crowdfunding, specific appeals, or annual appeals. Focus on the methods that are appropriate and have the best potential for success in your chosen regions.

4. Decide who will handle cultivation, stewardship, and solicitation

Depending on the size of your organisation and the countries, you can either have your existing team handle these tasks or find in-country support for this work. Cultivation and stewardship are critical for your international donors, as developing and tending to those relationships even when you are not physically present is essential for fostering a sense of connection and appreciation.

5. Determine the budget needed

International fundraising can be costly, so you need to identify the budget required. Decide whether the budget will be part of your existing budget or separate. Additionally, a strategic and cost-effective approach is to begin with strategies that have the highest potential ROI and building from there rather than trying everything, everywhere, all at once.

6. Define Success

When creating an effective international fundraising action plan, you need to set your goals for the region or your international programme as a whole. This may be number of new donors, response rates or monetary amounts. Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) and track them to ensure maximum return on investment.

7. Evaluate the impact international fundraising could have

Consider the impact international fundraising could have on your organisation and stakeholders. Evaluate its potential impact on your organisation’s reputation, mission, and financial performance.

Summary

International fundraising can be a game-changer for your organisation’s growth and success. But success depends on creating an effective action plan that matches your organisation’s goals and capabilities. Once you’ve identified your best potential international regions, determined your donor constituencies, and chosen your fundraising methods, set your goals and then analyse the results regularly. With a sound international fundraising action plan, you’ll be well on your way to success.

Get in Touch

Our fundraising team is available at any time via conference call to discuss your international fundraising strategies and goals, and talk to you about how we can boost your international fundraising.

Th Lookback Reports

GivingTuesday is a global movement, spanning 90 countries, and so we are always eager to read its annual lookback report which includes valuable insights about philanthropy around the world. This year has been no exception.

Including data across 3 of our Foundation countries – the UK, US and Canada – it is heartening to see that over 40% of those surveyed say they could have given more, and over 40% of recurring donors plan to give more next year!

However, the report also sends a message to non profits that donations from large donors may be declining which highlights the importance of a more diverse donor base moving forwards.

Engaging with a broader audience means inviting all kinds of people into a support ecosystem—whether as donors, volunteers, or advocates—within and across borders.

Read The Full Report

Read the lookback report with the button below.

Comparison Table

Our comparison highlights the advantages of each option, covering regulations, governance, finances, and donor trust.

Fundraising Options

When it comes to fundraising on an international level, organisations have two main options: establishing their own legal entity in another country or partnering with an established charity. Both of these approaches have their advantages and it is important to carefully consider which option would be the most beneficial for you.

Get in Touch

Regardless of your choice, rest assured that we at Chapel & York are here to support you. Get in touch for an informal chat about which model works best for you.

Happy New Year!

I hope that 2024 is off to a brilliant beginning for you.

In the world of philanthropy, things are always changing to meet society’s needs. As we begin this new year, we see some exciting trends emerging that will shape the future of international philanthropy.

From the increasing use of artificial intelligence in fundraising, to the ever evolving role of donor-advised funds and legacy giving, and growing opportunities for cross-border philanthropy, Chapel & York is here to help you navigate these changes and incorporate them into your international fundraising efforts.

The future of cross-border philanthropy is full of promise, and we are proud to be your partner in achieving your philanthropic goals.

View Trends

Click the button below to read our views on the likely trends in international philanthropy for this year.

Please feel free to share your views on the coming year with us, as well, either by our contact form or on LinkedIn. We would love to hear your thoughts on these trends.

Tips for Global Success

Navigating the complex world of international fundraising can be daunting, but our 25 top tips guide, compiled with industry experts, can set you on the path to global success. From understanding cultural nuances to leveraging strategic partnerships, our guide covers it all.

View Tips

Ready to elevate your international fundraising? Click the button below to read our 25 tops tips by industry experts.