Across Europe, societies are facing intractable challenges: rising inequality, high public debt and austerity, increased migration and refugee movements. These challenges raise questions about the role of philanthropy and how philanthropic foundations should best leverage their limited resources to promote effective long-term solutions and social change.

The Bodossaki Foundation in Greece is a case study for innovation in this field. Through strategic changes in response to Greece’s economic, social and migration crises, the Foundation has scaled up its impact since 2010, despite a reduction in its core funds, through maximizing our regranting capacity and offering non-financial support.

Drawing on this case study, this talk will present experiences and lessons learned from the frontline in Greece, and discuss their broader implications for the role of philanthropy and its contribution to governance in these difficult times.