Why join EVPA

EVPA is a network to share knowledge and develop best practice. Our members are entitled to a large variety of benefits, from access to premier events in the venture philanthropy industry, to research and learning opportunities. EVPA’s network connects European venture philanthropy experts and enhances the building of the industry.

We connect: Throughout the year we organise a number of events where you can connect, share best practice and learn from others in the network. Our main event is the Annual Conference which yearly attracts around 400 delegates, including social investors, donors, foundations, private equity organisations, advisory firms, private banks, academic institutions and some selected social entrepreneurs. Members can also connect online via the Social Impact Network, the members-only forum. 

As an EVPA member you benefit from a reduced participation fee and two free spaces for the Annual Conference (as part of the early bird offer). You get exclusive access to the Social Impact Network, the members-only online forum.

 

We provide learning opportunities: The EVPA Knowledge Centre is the hub for knowledge and thought leadership on venture philanthropy – in Europe and beyond. It conducts thorough research and produces reports on practices in venture philanthropy. Furthermore, the EVPA Knowledge Centre website has a database of over 200 external publications on the key topics in venture philanthropy. 

 

Furthermore, EVPA members have the unique opportunity to look behind the scenes of an experienced VP organisation as part of the site visits. These one-day events allow both experienced and new members to learn from each other and share best practices. Site visits are for members only.

We disseminate: We are keen on increasing the knowledge about venture philanthropy and make people aware of the great achievements in the sector. Through our monthly newsletter – the VP Update –, our website and various social media outlets, we showcase the great work that our members do. As an EVPA member you are entitled to send us your news, upcoming events and job openings.

We understand the importance of local peculiarities and are driving the development of a venture philanthropy sector within our member countries. Country seminars bring together members from one country as well as other organisations interested in venture philanthropy.

We build an industry: At EVPA we see venture philanthropy not only as a mere “tool” for philanthropic activities but as an emerging industry, with an entire support system around it, including advisory service firms and business school programmes specialised in venture philanthropy. As venture philanthropy continues to grow, the industry-building role of the association becomes increasingly important. We have established a Code of Conduct, setting out a set of principles aimed at developing the highest professional standards for the EVPA community where members can learn from each other in an atmosphere of transparency, humility and mutual respect. 

Furthermore, each year we conduct a survey on the VP industry in Europe. This gives us a unique insight into the development of the industry, how much capital is invested and who are the main beneficiaries.

“EVPA helps new and growing VP organisations by providing access to role models that show how it can be done and so provide encouragement“, Stephen Dawson, co- founder of EVPA

 

If you would like to apply for membership, please download the relevant application form.