Throughout the year, Geneva and French-speaking Switzerland host many flagship events and exchange forums dedicated to philanthropy. These gatherings are ideal opportunities to build connections, share experiences, and stay informed about sector developments.
Some of the sector’s key events
Swiss Foundations Forum
Held every two years by SwissFoundations with the support of committed partners, the Swiss Foundations Forum is a flagship event for philanthropy in French-speaking Switzerland. This national gathering brings together foundations, experts, and public-sector stakeholders to discuss the key trends and challenges shaping philanthropy in Switzerland, with particular attention to developments in the French speaking region.
Swiss Foundations Forum
Organised each year again by SwissFoundations, the Symposium is the largest event in Switzerland dedicated to foundations and the philanthropy sector as a whole, offering conferences, workshops, and extensive networking opportunities.
Swiss Foundations Day, hosted by proFonds
A key event since 1990, this annual gathering organised by proFonds brings together all Swiss foundations and non-profit organisations. It offers a full programme of talks, roundtables, and workshops exploring best practices, fostering collaboration, and promoting the societal role of foundations and not-for-profit organisations.
GCP Lunch – Geneva Centre for Philanthropy, University of Geneva
Several times a year, the Geneva Centre for Philanthropy hosts in-person and online meetings between researchers, practitioners, and partners from the philanthropy sector at both local and international levels to discuss current topics.
Annual Conference of the Cantonal Supervisory Authority for Foundations and Pension Institutions (ASFIP)
Each year, ASFIP organises an information day devoted to traditional foundations, addressing current governance, management, and compliance challenges in close connection with cantonal practice. The event is a major opportunity for discussion, clarification, and dialogue between the supervisory authority and foundations, held in the spirit of transparency and collaboration.
Bilan Philanthropy Evening
Each year, Bilan magazine hosts its Philanthropy Evening, bringing together sector stakeholders, showcasing inspiring case studies, and addressing major issues in philanthropy.
A lively calendar
Geneva’s philanthropic sector is vibrant, with many conferences, workshops and round tables taking place throughout the year. We invite you to check this portal's News section regularly to discover new opportunities.
Terms of access
Some events are open to all, while others may be reserved for members of specific networks or by invitation only. We therefore recommend contacting the organisers directly to confirm participation requirements and terms of access.
Organising an event?
Be sure to contact us to share upcoming dates and news for Geneva’s philanthropy community.