Generation Now

The Generation Now programme gives young professionals in philanthropy a unique chance to interact with leading philanthropy practitioners from Europe and around the world and form lasting networks with their peers.

What is Generation Now?

Generation Now focuses on today’s generation of young people in philanthropy who will become tomorrow’s leaders. In a time of uncertainty and complex global challenges, young people have ideas for transformative change. We need to elevate their ideas and voices and provide them with support, mentorship and opportunities to effect change.

Participants are early-career professionals interested in engaging more with European and global philanthropy. Throughout the year, participants are exposed to futures thinking and anticipation practices through online sessions, the Futures Philanthropy community and the Futures School Sandboxes. This will create the building blocks for future-oriented leadership and positioning participants as actors of change. The Generation Now cohort will attend the annual Philea Forum as an opportunity to connect with leaders from across the philanthropy field.

Since 2010, Generation Now (formerly the Next Gen programme) has supported over 100 professionals from over 50 organisations in building their careers in philanthropy.

What does the programme offer?

  • The opportunity to network and engage with leading philanthropy professionals from Europe and around the world.
  • The opportunity to attend the Philea Forum as a cohort, accompanied with support to help navigate the content. Participants prepare for the event by carving out a personalised learning journey over four online sessions while fostering a sense of belonging within the alumni network of the programme.
  • An introduction to futures thinking and foresight capabilities for younger professionals in the philanthropy field so participants can prevent, prepare and anticipate better in an uncertain world.
  • An opportunity to connect with the Futures Philanthropy community through facilitated networking and mentorship and an invitation to apply to the Futures School Sandboxes cohort the following year.

Who can apply?

  • Early-career professionals under 30 years old currently working within philanthropic institutions, grantmaking organisations, philanthropy infrastructure organisations, or related civil society organisations focused on philanthropy.
  • Individuals who demonstrate a commitment to actively engage with all components of the programme throughout its duration.

In selecting participants, Philea will seek to ensure diversity. Participation may be limited to one representative per organisation.

Costs

Registration for the Generation Now programme is free. However, your organisation is expected to cover your event registration, travel and accommodation costs.

“It is a space where we can show up as ourselves, challenge old ways of thinking, and dream up new ones together. Being part of this cohort is not just about learning – it’s about co-creating the future of philanthropy alongside a diverse group of peers who bring fresh perspectives and meaningful experiences.”

Participant, 2025

“Indeed, what makes this experience unique is its emphasis on peer learning, cross-sector collaboration, and intergenerational dialogue. It empowers us to challenge the status quo, explore new funding models (like trust-based philanthropy), and focus on systemic change rather than short-term impact.”

Participant, 2025

‘’In order to collectively imagine and then promote the futures that we want to see, the generations that will live those futures need to be part of the conversation. We are here already. We are not only a part of the future but also part of the present.”

Participant, 2025

Contacts

Claire Fally
Programme Officer – Foresight and Innovation
claire.fally@philea.eu
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