As the European headquarters of the UN, Geneva is home to a dense network of international organisations, NGOs, diplomatic missions and transnational networks. This unique concentration of actors working on major global issues – health, human rights, environmental issues, peace and social innovation – represents a strategic opportunity for local philanthropy. By collaborating with this international ecosystem, Geneva-based foundations can broaden their reach, strengthen their impact and create new synergies in the service of the common good.
The proximity of this network of competencies, expertise and partnerships is a major asset for the local philanthropic sector. In Geneva, foundations, NGOs, UN agencies and private stakeholders work together every day to address the great challenges of our time: health, human rights, the environment, peace and security, and social innovation.
Drawing on International Geneva means opening Geneva’s philanthropy to the world, strengthening its global impact, and fostering new synergies with stakeholders who share the ambition of contributing to the common good.
Learn more
To explore all that International Geneva has to offer, from institutions to missions, we invite you to consult the following resources:
Directorate of International Affairs
The Directorate of International Affairs (DAI) is responsible for implementing the Canton of Geneva’s policy in support of International Geneva. To fulfil this mission, the DAI acts as an interface between the Swiss Confederation, cantonal administrative services and the actors of International Geneva, notably by ensuring attractive, innovative framework conditions.
Its main areas of work, together with those of its partners, include: hosting and welcoming international stakeholders, strengthening networks within the Geneva ecosystem, providing financial support for international cooperation projects, and undertaking communication and awareness-raising initiatives. The grants awarded by the DAI help preserve the areas of excellence of International Geneva while also supporting emerging fields. As one of the pillars of multilateral action, the DAI also supports initiatives that promote the universality, inclusiveness and innovation capacity of International Geneva.
Welcome Centre for International Geneva (CAGI)
Created by the Swiss Confederation and the Canton of Geneva, CAGI facilitates the arrival and integration of the actors of International Geneva – civil servants, diplomats, and NGOs – by offering practical support (housing, administrative procedures, events, etc.). It also fosters exchange between international and local communities, strengthening Geneva’s cohesion and attractiveness as a centre for global governance.