The Third National Philanthropy Conference: A Glimpse into the Future of Giving
The third National Philanthropy Conference, New Reality—New Opportunities, occurred on November 4–5 in Belgrade. All sessions are also available online at nkof.tragfondacija.org. The event brought together leading philanthropy and corporate social responsibility experts and offered a rich program of panel discussions, insightful debates, and knowledge exchange. Over the two days, we explored proposals for improving the legal framework for charitable giving and examined how digital transformation shapes philanthropy’s future. The panelists spotlighted the importance of supporting underrepresented causes, shared success stories like Save Food, Save Humanity, and highlighted the crucial role of local foundations in building a strong philanthropic infrastructure across Serbia and the region. Participants learned more about the concepts of endowment and reserve funds—what they are, how they are established, and how they can strengthen the independence and sustainability of civil society organizations.
Mirko Janić, State Secretary at the Ministry of Labor, Employment, Veterans, and Social Affairs; Shenley Pinchotti, Director of the Office for Democratic and Economic Development at USAID Serbia; and Biljana Dakić Đorđević, Executive Director of Trag Foundation, officially opened the conference. In her speech, Dakić Đorđević emphasized the importance of developing philanthropy based on empirical evidence and the need for a supportive social and regulatory environment:
“There are many compassionate people among us, and that’s why it’s essential to continually improve the environment for philanthropy—through better legislation, but also by embracing new tools and models made possible by modern technology.”
One of the key takeaways from the conference was the need to harness the potential of digital transformation, not just in society as a whole, but in philanthropy as well. Speakers emphasized the importance of long-term, strategic giving, especially in times of humanitarian crisis, not only in the form of money, but also knowledge, services, and mentorship. They agreed that philanthropy is not merely a corrective tool, but a vital support system that empowers and connects communities.
The future of philanthropy lies in building trust and cultivating a unique, reciprocal relationship—one grounded in transparency. Education about philanthropy, together with improving legal frameworks and introducing tax incentives (particularly for food donations), emerged as key priorities. Continued research and advocacy remain essential for the philanthropic sector, civil society, donors, and public institutions.
As Biljana Dakić Đorđević eloquently put it during the closing session with members of the Coalition for Giving—Nathan Koeshall (Catalyst Balkans), Željko Mitkovski (Ana and Vlade Divac Foundation), Veran Matić (Serbian Philanthropic Forum and CSR Council of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce), and Milica Mišković (Smart Kolektiv and Responsible Business Forum):
“Philanthropy holds tremendous potential for social development. It is a powerful force that can help build trust, reduce polarization, improve the quality of life in communities, and protect human dignity. Philanthropy is not facing a sea of possibilities—it’s facing an ocean.”
The Trag Foundation’s YouTube channel offers a full recording of the conference, and a photo gallery capturing behind-the-scenes moments is also available online.
The conference was held as part of the Giving Framework Improvement Project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by the Coalition for Giving, led by the Ana and Vlade Divac Foundation. Members of the Coalition also include Trag Foundation, Catalyst Balkans, Smart Kolektiv, the Serbian Philanthropy Forum, the Responsible Business Forum, and the Serbian Chamber of Commerce.