The global health crisis has had a favourable effect on philanthropic activities. The Fondation de Luxembourg (FDL) observed this throughout the year, mostly due to Fondation Covid-19, a project it set up in April 2020 which enabled it to raise donations of nearly €1.6m in support of research, health and vulnerable populations in the context of the crisis.

Taking stock of the last fiscal year, Tonika Hirdman, executive director of the FDL, notes that 2020 “was fast-paced and closed with a record €10m donated to 300 charitable projects around the world”. This is €1m more than the previous year.

Since the beginning of this year, she has also observed a growing interest in philanthropy marked by the creation of four foundations in the first quarter and numerous projects being completed.

She believes there are two reasons for this: “Firstly, the crisis prompted a rethink on the fragility of life and the desire to leave a mark. But we must also take into account that some people, who were already in contact with us, finally found the time during the lockdown to finalise their project.”

She added, “The crisis prompted a rethink on the fragility of life and the desire to leave a mark.” 

Last year, six new foundations were launched with significant amounts: €26m in total.

In terms of trends, the FDL saw a 12% increase in the amounts paid out for research and health projects, ranking first with 41% of total funding. “This is obviously related to the coronavirus, but not entirely,” Hirdman says. “The founders also supported projects against cancer, neurological diseases or epilepsy.”

The association Stëmm vun der Strooss, a non-profit organisation that helps people living on the streets, received a new refrigerated truck, courtesy of the Fondation Covid-19. Photo: Stëmm vun der Strooss

Projects related to poverty and social cohesion ranked second, followed by projects to support education. Also, as a result of covid, there has been more support for projects that help young people in Europe stay in school.

“We are also seeing a growing interest in projects related to biodiversity and climate change” says Hirdman. “It is clear that these are themes that will set the pace as states also increase their support.”

This article was originally published in French on Paperjam and has been translated and edited for Delano.