European Forum Alpbach: A catalyst for impactful change

In a time of profound challenges and transformative shifts across Europe, the European Forum Alpbach (EFA) continues to be a unique space where diverse voices converge to chart a course for the future of Europe. For ERSTE Foundation, participation in the EFA is a strategic commitment to fostering dialogue, inspiring change, and building networks that transcend sectors and borders.

As a foundation deeply invested in preserving and nurturing democracy in Europe, our engagement with EFA reflects our core belief: that meaningful change arises from open dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas among those who are passionate about shaping the future. But what makes the Forum so important for us?

A vital platform for policy and dialogue

The European Forum Alpbach is more than just a gathering; it is a vital platform where policy meets practice, and ideas meet implementation. For ERSTE Foundation, this represents an invaluable space to bring our policy-oriented work to life. At Alpbach, we do not merely observe; we actively participate by shaping content and bringing people together. This way, we make an impact in Alpbach itself and through the Forum we advance our mission to foster a vibrant, inclusive democracy across Europe.

Our presence at EFA allows us to engage directly with decision-makers, from politicians to community leaders, offering a chance to shape policies that align with our vision for Europe’s future. We see the European Forum Alpbach as a “field test” — a place to experiment with new formats, test new ideas and gain new perspectives.  Alpbach provides an environment where we can influence and be influenced, pushing forward initiatives that matter most to us and the communities we serve.

Building networks for greater impact

One of the greatest values of the European Forum Alpbach is its role as a convening point for a vast network of stakeholders. As foundations, we know that our impact is magnified when we work together. In Alpbach, we connect with other philanthropic organisations, businesses, activists, policymakers, and intellectuals who share our commitment to building a better future.

These connections are not just valuable; they are essential. Through the Forum, we have found partners who amplify our work, challenge our thinking, and help us navigate the complexities of the social challenges we aim to address. The Forum is a bridge, linking us to communities and networks, otherwise not necessarily in our reach, that can support and advance our work in ways that would be difficult to achieve alone.

Contributing to a shared vision

The EFA motto is “Alpbach is not an ordinary conference, it is what you make of it.” This goes along very well with how we, at ERSTE Foundation live our partnerships: We are an active partner and our participation in the European Forum Alpbach is not a one-way street. We contribute to the Forum with meaningful content, by inviting the experts who work together with us on impactful initiatives that elevate the overall discourse. This is not about mere financial support; it is about bringing something valuable to the table. We view our role as co-creators, actively shaping the agenda and driving conversations that matter.

For us, this deeper cooperation with European Forum Alpbach represents a mutually beneficial relationship. We also gain from the vibrant exchanges and fresh ideas that emerge. This year, we worked on introducing new perspectives capable of challenging entrenched norms and fostering innovative solutions for the Western Balkans – amongst other sessions supported by ERSTE Foundation and its team, from affordable housing via the capital market and financial wellbeing to digitalisation, marginalised groups, and Ukraine. It is in this broad range of topics and experts on-site that enhance our causes which makes Alpbach such a valuable conference for ERSTE Foundation.

Platform for collective action

The longstanding history and reputation of European Forum Alpbach make it a prestigious stage for advancing ideas that matter. For ERSTE Foundation, the Forum is a powerful channel for disseminating ideas, promoting our work, and communicating our commitment to a democratic and inclusive Europe. It allows us to be visible, present, and engaged in the crucial conversations that define our time.

But this platform is not just for us — it is for all of us. For any foundation dedicated to making a meaningful impact, the EFA offers an unparalleled opportunity to influence, engage, and inspire. It is a place where we can collectively work towards a shared vision, using our unique perspectives and resources to create sustainable, positive change.

Role of philanthropy

At a time when Europe faces unprecedented challenges, the role of philanthropy has never been more critical. Foundations like ours have a unique capacity to bring together people, ideas, and resources to drive real societal progress. Engaging with European Forum Alpbach and its community allows us to amplify this role, turning our shared aspirations into concrete actions.

For ERSTE Foundation, the European Forum Alpbach is not just an annual gathering, it is like a showcase for our strategy to foster dialogue, build networks, and promote the values we hold dear. We believe that together, through forums like the EFA, we can shape a future that is brighter, more equitable, and truly European.

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