Philanthropic Leadership Platform: China-Europe
The Philanthropic Leadership Platform: China-Europe is an intensive, peer-led leadership development programme that brings together 20 philanthropy professionals from China and Europe for a period of 8 days to enhance their leadership skills through knowledge exchange, experience sharing, creativity and open discussions.
As global challenges grow, stronger collaboration between philanthropic traditions is essential. China and Europe are deeply connected through trade, investment and shared efforts on issues like climate change. While differences exist, meaningful engagement and collaboration are key to finding common ground. Philanthropy has the power to bridge divides and drive lasting impact. By strengthening connections and cooperation, we can create a more sustainable and inclusive future.
The programme challenges participants to think creatively, explore diverse leadership styles and develop problem-solving skills through collaboration. It emphasises self-awareness, emotional intelligence, change management and intercultural competence to strengthen cooperation between Chinese and European foundations. Participants return with new perspectives, tools and insights to enhance their leadership and organisational impact.
What to expect
A diverse and cross-cultural learning experience
Bringing together philanthropy professionals from China and Europe, this programme fosters cross-cultural exchange and collaboration. Participants come from diverse backgrounds, ranging from early-career professionals to seasoned experts and from operational organisations to grantmaking foundations, creating a rich learning environment.
Peer-learning and cross-sector dialogue
The programme embraces a multi-generational and multi-organisational approach, where:
- Experienced professionals share sector insights and strategic knowledge.
- Younger professionals bring fresh perspectives and innovation.
- Operational organisations contribute hands-on expertise.
- Grantmakers offer insights on funding strategies and ecosystem-building.
This environment fosters peer-learning, mentorship and meaningful cross-sector dialogue, helping participants develop valuable connections and a broader perspective on philanthropy.
All costs except travel are covered by the organisers.
How is the programme structured?
The programme lasts a total of 8 days: 2 days for travel and 6 days for the programme activities. Participants engage in group and plenary interaction, and active exchange with high-level experts and leaders of institutions in the public, private and voluntary sectors.
The programme is built on the following specific activities:
- Group work on specific topics
- Plenary discussions
- Lectures and trainings
- Intergroup workshops
- Excursions to other foundations and non-profit organisations
- Site visits to local philanthropy projects
- To boost the sharing experience, each participant will be paired up throughout the programme with one of their intercontinental peers.
Who is eligible?
This programme is open to philanthropy practitioners working in philanthropic organisations. Applicants should be fully committed to actively participating and engaging in the programme and respecting the confidentiality of other participants. The applicant’s organisation should fully support the applicant’s total participation for the duration of the programme. As the programme is conducted in English, the ability to work in English is essential.
When and where?
The programme takes place annually and the location alternates between Europe and China, with a new set of participants each year. Participants get the opportunity to visit locations within a two-hour travel range, as well as experience first-hand the work of philanthropy and NGO’s locally.
Costs
Participants are responsible for covering the costs of travel to/from the programme location. All other costs (meals, transportation, accommodation) associated with the programme will be covered by the organisers.
The selection process
Philea, CFF and Stiftung Mercator make the selection of programme participants from the application pool. All applicants will be notified of the final selection by the end of May of each programme year.
What some PLP: China-Europe alumni have to say about the programme:
About the organisers
The programme is funded by Stiftung Mercator and led by Philea in partnership with China Foundation Forum.
- Stiftung Mercator, a Philea member, is a private and independent foundation. Through its work it strives for a society characterised by openness to the world, solidarity and equal opportunities.
- Philea is an association of philanthropic organisations and national associations with members from across Europe and the globe.
- China Foundation Forum is a platform established voluntarily by foundations aiming at pursuing excellence and achieving progress in the Chinese foundation sector.
Contacts
