Expertise: Philanthropic Initiative Design

Strategic philanthropic initiatives demand rigorous analysis of unmet societal needs and opportunities for global impact while utilizing all available corporate and external resources. Well-designed philanthropic initiatives are clearly positioned within the landscape of other social sector initiatives, focus on explicit objectives, and create value by leveraging a corporation’s unique set of capabilities.

FSG will work with you to analyze the targeted social issues that are most important to your competitive advantage. The collaborative work involves extensive consultations with experts, in-the-field assessments, studies of existing research, and working meetings to determine the philanthropic investment strategy. The end result will be a fully formed initiative with a detailed implementation plan that includes measurable indicators of both societal and corporate impact.

FSG’s work in this area builds on the firm’s extensive work with private foundations, nonprofits, and international organizations.

SAMPLE CASE
Determine High Priority Corporate Philanthropy Initiative and Develop Implementation Plan for Shell

Challenge

• Review competitive context and prioritize corporate philanthropy initiatives
• Research social and business impacts of initiatives and develop business plan for the highest priority activity

Approach

• Identified social issues
• Louisiana wetlands disappearing at rate of 25-35 square miles per year threatening local economy, wildlife, and energy security
• Cost of inaction estimated at greater than $100B
• Identified business issues
• High percentage of Shell’s U.S. pipeline, refinery, and infrastructure at risk of serious damage
• Oil and gas industry being associated with the problem

Results

Created business plan for protecting Louisiana wetlands, including initiatives to:

• Invest $3 million to sponsor state-initiated public awareness program
• Apply Shell external affairs expertise for federal restoration bill
• Underwrite research on halting wetlands erosion and rebuilding habitats
• Dedicate Shell geoscientists to restoration solution collaboratives
• Donate surplus material, such as pipeline, to restoration efforts

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