From Trust-Based to Evidence-Based Philanthropy
Featuring John Elkington — pioneer of the Triple Bottom Line and global thought leader in sustainability
Moving from annual reports to real-time impact, radical transparency and public accountability
A global forum for philanthropic foundations and CSR leaders exploring how evidence-based impact, full donation transparency and community engagement are redefining philanthropy and impact finance. Anchored by the vision of John Elkington on systems change and the future of philanthropy.
Event Details
When: April 16, 2026 — 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (CET)
Where: Online + Invitation link upon registration
Keynote Speaker: John Elkington
Register for the 2026 ZEW Forum
Secure your seat among global funders and impact leaders.
Why join this forum
Evidence-Based Philanthropy
Discover how leading funders are moving beyond trust-based models — informed by John Elkington's vision on systems change, accountability and the next era of philanthropy.
Peer Learning at Decision-Maker Level
Engage directly with CSR leaders, foundations and philanthropic funders to exchange practical insights on what is actually working in impact finance today.
Engagement as Infrastructure
Explore how engagement-driven platforms are becoming the backbone of scalable, credible social and environmental impact — far beyond traditional reporting.
Event Schedule
Welcome & Setting the Context
Why traditional philanthropy is being challenged — and why transparency, engagement and evidence now matter more than ever.
Keynote: The Next Era of Philanthropy
John Elkington — author of the Triple Bottom Line — on systems change, the limits of trust-based models and the future of credible, accountable impact.
From Vision to Practice
How evidence-based transparency and real-time impact tracking are applied in real social and environmental projects.
Panel: Funding the Future of Impact
Corporate and philanthropic funders discuss what they expect, what they no longer fund and how they assess credibility today.
Breakout Conversations
Small group discussions by geography and funder type to reflect on challenges, risks and opportunities ahead.
From Conversation to Commitment
Optional expressions of interest, pilot partnerships and co-creation opportunities for 2026 and beyond.
Closing & Next Steps
Key takeaways, thank you notes and invitation to the Lisbon 2026 in-person forum.
About ZEW
At ZEW, we believe that transparency builds trust, trust drives action, and action creates impact. Our platform transforms giving into a clear, engaging experience with real evidence on the ground.
Our Mission
Accelerate global impact and the UN SDGs 2030. NGOs create impact.
We ensure transparency, communication, and community engagement.
