European Day of Foundations and Donors

Held on 1 October, the annual European Day of Foundations and Donors showcases the role of the European philanthropy sector and aims to raise public awareness about the value of philanthropy. Public-benefit foundations, charities, trusts, communities, infrastructure bodies, donors, philanthropists and volunteers – we are all working in our own ways to build a better, more sustainable and fairer world that everyone can thrive in.

2025 Theme: Towards equality as a lived reality

Across Europe today, inequality is a central, structural and deeply embedded issue that cuts across income, geography and age, as well as gender, race and other identities. Inequality has far-reaching consequences that extend well beyond individual hardship: It affects the health, stability and resilience of entire societies.

The good news is that evidence shows how addressing inequalities leads to stronger economies and healthier societies – which benefits us all.

This 1 October, on the occasion of the European Day of Donors and Foundations, let’s inspire collective imagination to envision the kind of future we want, one that works for people and planet. Let’s showcase how philanthropy can fulfil its promise by being impatient optimists, boldly imagining and pursing innovative, hope-based activities. Let’s share new ways of thinking and acting to create a future where equality is a lived reality.

Equality is where we begin. Justice is where we’re headed.

How to get involved & what resources are available:

1. Hold an online or in-person event – and let us know ahead of time so we can include it on this page.
2. Engage in the social media campaign: Share your content using the #October1Europe hashtag, amplify the posts you see online
3. Explore and circulate the Equality Framework, consider translating it and sharing it locally
4. Share a relevant case study from your context – we’re creating a repository on equality practices and we’d love to include it.