New research to explore how collaborative philanthropy can contribute to social service in the Greater Bay Area

The Institute of Philanthropy (IoP) is launching a three-year research initiative in partnership with Beijing Normal University, to better understand philanthropic innovations and identify opportunities for social service cooperation in the Greater Bay Area.

The research, funded by a RMB 9.1 million donation from IoP, aims to improve how social resources are integrated to make services more effective across the GBA, including Hong Kong, Macao and nine cities in Guangdong Province. The study will combine joint research, multi-stakeholder engagement and policy dialogue to explore effective mechanisms for cooperation in key areas such as elderly care, child development, health, emergency response and sustainable development.

“As the GBA continues to grow in strategic importance, it is essential to understand how collaborative philanthropy can contribute to shared social progress. This research will help unlock new models of cooperation and strengthen the region’s leading role in shaping the future of philanthropy,” said Lester Huang, Chairman of the Institute of Philanthropy.

Professor Wang Zhenyao, Founding Dean of the China Philanthropy Research Institute at Beijing Normal University and Professor Xu Xiaoxin, the current Dean, will jointly lead the research team, supported by a multidisciplinary group of scholars and practitioners. “Through this cooperation, we hope to refine the effective mechanisms, partnerships and policy innovations that can help philanthropy play a more effective role in regional development,” Professor Wang said.

IoP was established in September 2023 through a seed grant from The Hong Kong Jockey Club and its Charities Trust. Established as an independent “think-fund-do” tank for China, Asia and beyond, IoP is dedicated to promoting philanthropic thought leadership and enhancing sector capabilities at local, regional and global levels in collaboration with fellow funders.