Governance in Philanthropy - Pearl Initiative

Governance in Philanthropy Programme

Launched in 2017, the Governance in Philanthropy Programme promotes best practices in governance to empower philanthropists in the Gulf Region. Through expert resources, research, and convenings, it fosters informed and transparent giving, aligning traditional values with global leadership to maximise systemic impact.

Programme Objectives

The Governance in Philanthropy programme aims to strengthen the philanthropic ecosystem in the Gulf region, through the provision of resources, knowledge‐sharing platforms and by bridging the gap between private capital and public resourcing. Our key objectives are to:

Equip Gulf‐based donors with the knowledge, tools, resources, and guidance to enhance their philanthropic strategy.
Establish a leading community of donors who spearhead the regional drive for increased transparency, accountability, and trust in giving in the Gulf region, as well as, inspire collaboration amongst donors.
Support individual and institutional donors to make more informed decisions when giving and adopt better monitoring and evaluation practices to have a larger impact in the Gulf region.
Increase awareness amongst youth on the importance of philanthropy in the Gulf region.

For further information and partnership opportunities, please contact us at [email protected].

Programme Achievement

Since 2017, the programme has created a trusted space for over 300 individual and institutional donors to learn and collaborate. It has hosted more than 70 events on strategic giving, impact measurement, and philanthropic identity, and published over 20 resources on topics including next-generation philanthropy, transparency, and Islamic philanthropy. The flagship ‘Circle’ initiative, in partnership with Philanthropy Age, engages over 4,000 users via CircleMENA.org, offering 90+ resources in English and Arabic.

“It was a pleasure to attend the enlightening workshops hosted by the Pearl Initiative. I was impressed by the discussion and the sharing of knowledge and experiences reflected by the other participants, as it affirms our shared belief that philanthropy is essential for impactful social, economic, and cultural progress.”

H.E. Huda I. Alkhamis-Kanoo

Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation and Founder & Artistic Director of Abu Dhabi Festival

“The Pearl Initiative is one of our most valued and consistent partners. Every conversation about our shared efforts to advance strategic philanthropy in the UAE, GCC, and MENA region is collaborative and generative. The PI team has the innate ability to think strategically and practically, always considering the needs of both the PI membership and the larger philanthropy ecosystem. They bring professionalism, creativity, and innovation to every collaboration. We look forward to continuing our partnership and working together to create strategic, meaningful impact across the UAE and GCC.” (Sept, 2023)

Renee Dugan

Senior Advisor, Professional and Executive Programmes, NYU Abu Dhabi

Podcast

Shaping Philanthropy is a new podcast from Circle hosted by Anissa Punjani, Pearl Initiative, and produced and edited by Louise Redvers, Philanthropy Age. Take a deep-dive into conversations with philanthropists, CSR professionals, and nonprofit thought leaders from across the Arab region. Past guests include Muna Al Gurg, Clare Woodcraft, Lynn Zovighian and Fadi Ghandour. Search for “Shaping Philanthropy” wherever you get your podcasts or find us on Apple and Spotify.

Circle is supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.