In the evolving landscape of philanthropy, givers are uniquely positioned to act not just as donors, but as architects of change. With the ability to blend personal values, intergenerational vision and the causes you care about, impact can be created or amplified in a multitude of ways.

When considering what to fund, there are several levers you can choose to pull. These levers are not opposing forces, but dynamic tensions that, when thoughtfully balanced, can transform giving from transactional to transformational.

Innovative vs. Established Programmes

Innovation invites boldness. It allows you to fund new ideas, pilot untested models, and support emerging leaders. This might mean investing in social enterprises, tech-driven solutions, or grassroots movements that challenge the status quo. It does, however, often come with the risk of failure.

Established programmes offer stability and proven outcomes. They often serve as the backbone of community support—particularly in areas like education, housing, and healthcare.

As a general rule you will find smaller or start-up like charities sitting at the innovative end, whilst the larger ones (more likely to have a proven model of impact and receive government funding) will sit at the established end of the spectrum.

Lever for impact: Use innovation to push boundaries, while balancing giving in trusted programmes that deliver consistent results.

Capacity Building vs. Programme Support

Programme support is immediate and visible—it funds services, aid and outreach. It’s often where givers feel the most direct connection to beneficiaries.

Capacity building, however, strengthens the organisation itself. It’s about leadership development, governance, digital infrastructure, and strategic planning. Though less tangible, it’s essential for long-term resilience.

Lever for impact: Invest in capacity as a multiplier—strong organisations deliver better programmes and adapt more effectively to change.

Policy vs. Practice

Practice is the day-to-day work of charities and community groups. It’s where lives are changed and needs are met.

Policy shapes the environment in which that work happens. Supporting advocacy, research, and systems reform can lead to broader, more sustainable change.

Lever for impact: Fund frontline practice while supporting policy initiatives that scale and sustain impact across sectors.

Systems Change vs. Intervention

Intervention addresses symptoms—providing food, shelter, or emergency aid. It’s critical in times of crisis and for vulnerable populations.

Systems change tackles root causes—inequality, exclusion, and institutional failure. It’s complex, slow, and often requires collaboration across sectors.

Lever for impact: Use interventions as entry points to inform and drive systems-level change, especially when paired with data and lived experience.

Long-Term vs. Immediate Need

Immediate needs are urgent and compelling. Long-term goals are strategic and enduring. Givers often have the flexibility to do both—responding to crises while investing in legacy-building initiatives.

Lever for impact: Develop a giving portfolio that balances short-term responsiveness with long- term vision, aligned to personal values and intergenerational goals.