The ESSEC Philanthropy Chair Boosting the social impact of philanthropy

Europe’s first Philanthropy Chair

Philanthropy has become increasingly important in recent decades. Its role in responding to major challenges is no longer questioned, and its usefulness in serving the public interest is now widely valued. Nevertheless, it is relatively unknown in France and Europe due to lack of research, in contrast with the United States. That is why ESSEC has created Europe’s first Philanthropy Chair. In addition to teaching, the ESSEC Philanthropy Chair contributes to professionalizing the sector. It boosts philanthropies’ ability to gauge the effectiveness and impact of their actions.

Studying, assessing and promoting philanthropy in Europe

The chair’s creation is part of a process that began with the founding of the Institute for Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship. ESSEC has long put the sustainable economy, social entrepreneurship and equal opportunity at the heart of its teaching. The chair, recognized for its quality, combines teaching with academic and applied research. It converges the energy of key players, including a permanent, multidisciplinary and international team.

Fostering the emergence of young researchers in philanthropy

The Bettencourt Schueller Foundation contributes to structuring the community association sector and developing innovation and training. The chair complements major foundations, such as the Fondation de France and the Edmond de Rothschild Foundations.