5 Things We Learned in 2015 About the Future of Philanthropy

Philanthropy isn’t what it was 50 years ago. In fact, the sector isn’t even what it was last year. From the emergence of Silicon Valley philanthropy, to the growing influence of Millennials as social entrepreneurs, to new adventures in virtual reality—2015 took philanthropy on a ride that captured headlines and our imaginations.

But this new world of philanthropy wasn’t built overnight. Ever since the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) was founded as an experiment in 2005, we have seen firsthand how bringing together the world’s top business, government and civil society leaders could help address the great challenges of the 21st century. A decade—and by our count, more than 430 million improved lives—later, CGI members are helping shape modern philanthropy. Here are some of the lessons we took to heart in 2015.