Creating a Peer-Learning Network

There have been many successful initiatives over the past two decades to encourage networking and sharing of information between grantmakers in South Africa. In 2006 the most well-known of these, the South African Grantmakers Association, closed its doors leaving a gap that remained unfilled for some time. In 2008, Inyathelo started the Philanthropists’ Network to create an experience-sharing, peer-learning opportunity for local philanthropist to discuss opportunities, challenges and experiences in the local grantmaking environment.

Individual Philanthropists enter the Network

From these discussions it became clear that grantmakers were adamant they needed to assist the organisations that they support build capacity in reporting, evaluation, and general grant administration skills. It was also necessary to build a network of resources that could support individual philanthropists who conducted their giving with small numbers of staff.