Women and Philanthropy: A Literature Review (2012)

Abstract

An accumulating body of demographic data and research suggests that women’s philanthropy is one of the key developments in philanthropy globally, one which has the potential to transform how philanthropy is practiced in the future. A 2006 article in The Economist stated that, “women are now the most powerful engine of global growth.” According to a Barclay’s study of 2,000 millionaires around the globe (2010), “men are more active philanthropists in developed countries, but in emerging countries, women take the lead.” Women are raising their voices, changing the face of philanthropy, and transforming how philanthropy is practiced around the world.