IFCo at the Beacon Philanthropy & Impact Forum 2026

Set in the magnificent surroundings of the Great Hall, the Forum has brought together leading voices from across the UK and internationally to explore the evolving role of philanthropy in addressing global challenges.

The rise of transatlantic philanthropy

Reporting from the event, Sarah highlighted the morning panel session on ‘The Rise of Transatlantic Philanthropy’ as a particular standout.

“The panel session before lunch was fantastic. Dr Matthew Naylor, President and CEO of The National WW1 Museum and Memorial in Kansas City, talked extensively about setting and sticking to the narrative for your mission. Storytelling is key to helping people find an access point to their Museum. His closing thoughts were to remind us that the future is bright — people want to have meaning in their lives and want to give; it is a matter of finding them and telling your story as powerfully as possible.”

Matthew’s reflections resonated strongly with IFCo’s own experience: clarity of mission and powerful storytelling remain central to engaging donors across borders and cultures.

Philanthropy in practice: UK leaders in conversation

The afternoon panel, chaired by Juliet Agnew, Barclays Private Bank, featured some of the UK’s leading philanthropists:

• Alexandra Chapman, Reed Foundation and Ethiopiaid
• Becky Holmes, The Helvellyn Foundation
• Ben Goldsmith, Menhaden plc

Their discussion explored how philanthropy is evolving in response to increasing global complexity — and how funders are thinking more strategically about long-term impact.

A shift towards systems change

The afternoon keynote from Sergio Fernandez de Cordova, Executive Chairman and Founder of PVBLIC Foundation, provided a powerful conclusion to the day’s discussions.

Sergio reflected on how 2025 served as a real stress test for global systems, accelerating changes in philanthropic behaviour. Increasingly, family wealth-holders are moving beyond traditional grant-making models. Rather than simply providing funds, many are seeking to engage in long-term systems building — contributing not just capital, but:

• Strategic game plans
• Technology and innovation
• Global networks
• Enabling infrastructure

As Sergio noted, this integrated approach represents where the true value of future philanthropy lies.

Looking ahead

Today’s conversations at the Beacon Forum reinforce a clear message: philanthropy is becoming more intentional, more strategic, and more deeply embedded in systems change.

For organisations seeking support, the imperative is equally clear — articulate your mission with conviction, build compelling narratives, and create meaningful opportunities for donors to engage beyond financial giving.

As Matthew Naylor reminded delegates, the future is bright. People are searching for meaning and purpose — and powerful storytelling remains one of the most important bridges between mission and philanthropy.

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