The Global Philanthropy Environment: Trends Shaping Cross-Border Giving in 2026
As part of Myriad USA’s international giving webinar series, we recently partnered with the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy for a timely discussion on trends in global philanthropy. The webinar highlighted key insights from the 2025 Global Philanthropy Environment Index (GPEI), one-of-a-kind global research encompassing 95 countries and economies in 15 regions.
The session offered a data‑driven look at how philanthropic funds move across borders—and the regulatory and structural forces shaping international giving in 2026 and beyond. For donors, it highlighted emerging opportunities, effective ways to work with regional platforms and intermediaries, and how innovation is helping sustain impact in a more complex global environment.
What the Data Tells Us
The Global Philanthropy Tracker estimates that 47 countries contributed a combined USD 70 billion in cross-border philanthropic outflows. The report also compares these philanthropic outflows with three other types of resource flows: official development assistance, remittances, and private capital investment. Among those 4 resource flows, cross-border philanthropy constituted about 8% of worldwide cross-border resources
Yet the GPEI reveals a troubling trend. Among the six factors that shape the philanthropic enabling environment, the ability to send and receive funds across borders now scores lowest. It has become more restrictive since 2018. Heightened anti‑money‑laundering regulations and efforts by governments to limit foreign influence are making compliance more demanding for donors and nonprofits alike.
Regional Differences
Europe currently offers the most supportive environment for cross‑border giving, driven in part by regulatory harmonization and equal treatment of domestic and foreign donations. Other regions face tighter constraints, reinforcing the importance of local expertise, trusted intermediaries, and well‑designed giving structures.
Despite these challenges, the data points to solutions. Clear legal guidance, targeted tax incentives, risk‑based regulatory approaches, and capacity‑building for nonprofits all help keep philanthropic capital flowing responsibly. Digital platforms and intermediary models, including fiscal sponsors and American Friends Funds hosted at Myriad USA, play an increasingly important role in helping donors manage risk while supporting meaningful cross‑border impact.
The Takeaway for Donors
Cross‑border philanthropy is facing headwinds, but it remains vital. With robust research, thoughtful structures, and a commitment to collaboration and trust‑based relationships, there are opportunities for donors to support meaningful change across borders.
The session featured:
Dr. Dana R.H. Doan, Director of Global Philanthropy Indices, Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy
Kady Sylla, Director – Africa and Middle East, Myriad USA
They were joined by regional experts representing the Balkans, Canada and the United States, the Caribbean, Latin America, and the Middle East, who offered on‑the‑ground perspectives and responded to questions from the audience.
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This webinar is presented by Myriad USA, the leading resource for philanthropic giving overseas – a trusted advisor to individuals, families, corporations, and foundations seeking to support their favorite causes, anywhere across the globe. Discover our full portfolio of services at https://myriadusa.org/services/.