Centre for Philanthropy, University of Kent
Strengthening the understanding and practice of philanthropy
We have been involved with Kent’s Centre for Philanthropy for a decade and are delighted to provide core funding so that they can continue to thrive and do valuable research and teaching that has a real impact on building a more generous and kinder society.Sir Trevor Pears
Partner since: 2012
Funding invested: £700,000
- Core: Unrestricted funding
- Project: Teaching fellowship; ‘Why Rich People Give’ research; Student philanthropy module
Philanthropy has the potential to strengthen charities, improve public understanding and increase the impact of giving. Yet, until recently, the subject received relatively little academic attention in the UK. Pears Foundation believes that better research, teaching and public engagement can help improve both the understanding and practice of philanthropy.
Established in 2008, the Centre for Philanthropy at the University of Kent has become a leading centre for research, teaching and public engagement in philanthropy and fundraising. Working closely with charities, funders and practitioners, it produces research that informs professional practice while helping to shape wider public understanding.
Our partnership began in 2012 and has evolved alongside the Centre’s growth. We supported the UK’s first dedicated university teaching post in philanthropy and the development of a Master’s degree in Philanthropic Studies, helping establish philanthropy as a recognised academic discipline. More recently, we became the Centre’s first core funder, providing long-term support for its research, teaching and public engagement.
Our funding has also helped the Centre extend its impact beyond postgraduate education and research. We supported the development and expansion of the University’s pioneering Learning by Giving – Philanthropy in Action module, which enables undergraduate students to experience philanthropy first-hand by making real grant-making decisions in partnership with Kent Community Foundation. We have also supported the Centre’s free online course on fundraising, helping make its expertise accessible to learners around the world.
Our partnership reflects a shared belief that philanthropy should be thoughtful, evidence-informed and open to learning. By strengthening academic understanding and professional practice, the Centre helps ensure that philanthropy is better understood and practised more effectively.