7 New Philanthropy Books Reshaping the Field in 2025

Discover authoritative Philanthropy Books authored by experts including Badr Jafar, Michelle Yeoh, and Andrea Oliver that reveal fresh insights and developments in 2025.

Updated on June 28, 2025
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The philanthropy landscape has shifted notably in recent years, and 2025 brings a wave of fresh perspectives that reflect this evolution. As social challenges intertwine with technology, new voices and approaches are emerging, showing how philanthropy can be more strategic, inclusive, and impactful than ever before. Navigating this dynamic field requires the latest insights from those shaping its future.

These seven newly published books, penned by authorities like Badr Jafar and Andrea Oliver, offer a window into philanthropy’s expanding role—from integrating artificial intelligence to advancing feminist funding principles. Their diverse expertise highlights how philanthropy intersects with global leadership, faith traditions, activism, and strategic planning. These works are essential for anyone looking to grasp the current currents transforming giving and social change.

While these cutting-edge books provide the latest insights, readers seeking the newest content tailored to their specific philanthropy goals might consider creating a personalized Philanthropy book that builds on these emerging trends. This custom approach helps you apply fresh strategies directly aligned with your background and ambitions.

Best for strategic social innovators
This book offers a unique window into the evolving landscape of philanthropy through candid dialogues with 40 of the world’s most influential thought and action leaders. It emphasizes the critical role strategic philanthropy plays in addressing today’s intertwined social and environmental crises. By capturing diverse perspectives, it provides actionable insights for social innovators seeking to create meaningful impact. Whether you're a practitioner or observer, this collection illuminates how thoughtful giving can meet the demands of our complex world, making it an essential read for anyone looking to understand philanthropy’s future.
2025·336 pages·Philanthropy, Social Innovation, Strategic Philanthropy, Environmental Impact, Global Leadership

When social entrepreneur Badr Jafar compiled insights from 40 leading philanthropic figures, including Bill Gates and Kristalina Georgieva, he crafted a nuanced exploration of strategic philanthropy's evolving role amid global challenges. You’ll discover how these conversations shed light on the interplay between social innovation and environmental impact, offering fresh perspectives on tackling interconnected risks. This book is particularly insightful on how philanthropic strategies can be mobilized to inspire a new generation of changemakers. If you’re involved in social entrepreneurship or aiming to deepen your understanding of philanthropy’s strategic potential, this collection offers grounded, forward-looking viewpoints rather than abstract ideals.

Published by HarperCollins
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The Routledge Handbook of Artificial Intelligence and Philanthropy offers a thoughtful exploration of how AI and philanthropy intersect to create new opportunities and challenges. This academic volume draws from contributions by leading scholars and practitioners who examine AI's practical applications in philanthropic activities and the ethical considerations that arise. By combining theoretical frameworks with real-world case studies, the book provides a balanced perspective that benefits anyone invested in shaping responsible, innovative futures for philanthropy and AI alike.
2024·570 pages·Philanthropy, Artificial Intelligence, Ethics, Fundraising, Grantmaking

What sets this handbook apart is its dual focus on artificial intelligence and philanthropy, fields rarely examined together with such rigor. Editors Giuseppe Ugazio and Milos Maricic bring together experts to analyze how AI technologies can reshape philanthropic efforts and, conversely, how philanthropy can influence the ethical development of AI. You'll gain insights into practical applications of AI in fundraising, grantmaking, and impact measurement, alongside thoughtful discussions about responsible AI use. Chapters include case studies illustrating successful AI-philanthropy collaborations, making this an eye-opening read if you want to understand the intersection shaping the future of giving and technology.

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Best for custom philanthropic insights
This AI-created book on philanthropy trends is tailored to your background and specific interests in the 2025 landscape. You specify which emerging topics and challenges you want to focus on, along with your current knowledge and goals, and the book is crafted to explore those themes deeply. This personalized approach means you get a focused, relevant guide to philanthropy's latest developments, helping you stay ahead and learn efficiently without wading through unrelated material.
2025·50-300 pages·Philanthropy, Philanthropy Trends, Emerging Technologies, Social Impact, Funding Innovations

This tailored book explores the transformative developments shaping philanthropy in 2025, focusing on emerging trends and breakthrough insights tailored to your specific interests and goals. It examines how philanthropy intersects with technology, social movements, and evolving funding approaches, providing a personalized learning experience that matches your background and curiosity. The book reveals how these new discoveries influence giving practices and impact measurement, offering a focused exploration of the most relevant advancements for you. By addressing your unique objectives, it fosters an engaging comprehension of philanthropy's evolving landscape, empowering your understanding of the latest ideas driving social change today.

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Best for planned giving professionals
What makes The Philanthropist Handbook unique is Clay M. Grayson's insider perspective as a nonprofit law attorney guiding you through the massive philanthropic shift expected as Baby Boomers bequeath $12 trillion to charitable causes. This book covers the latest insights on planned giving, including evaluating nonprofits and building effective donor relationships, all framed within the evolving landscape of philanthropy. Its structured approach helps you understand the legal and financial considerations essential for impactful charitable legacy planning. Whether you're a donor or nonprofit professional, this handbook offers a clear path to turning your philanthropic vision into enduring social change.
2024·238 pages·Philanthropy, Charitable Giving, Estate Planning, Nonprofit Law, Donor Relations

The breakthrough moment came when Clay M. Grayson, a seasoned nonprofit law attorney, recognized the vast potential of planned giving among Baby Boomers transferring trillions to nonprofits. He draws on decades representing major nonprofit organizations to explain the legal, financial, and strategic facets of charitable giving with clarity and precision. You’ll explore the history of philanthropy, criteria for evaluating nonprofits, and crafting a personal giving plan, supported by detailed case studies and practical frameworks. This book is designed for donors and nonprofit professionals who want to deepen their impact while navigating complex estate planning and trust-building processes.

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Best for grassroots activism beginners
Philanthropy Unlocked offers a fresh look at how anyone can create change without vast resources. Andrea Oliver emphasizes that meaningful activism and giving are accessible through small, consistent efforts that fit your lifestyle. This book explores the latest strategies in philanthropy, including leveraging social media and skill-based volunteering, making it a timely guide for those wanting to engage more deeply despite busy schedules. It empowers you to start where you are and build a lasting legacy of giving.
2024·131 pages·Philanthropy, Activism, Volunteering, Social Justice, Fundraising

Andrea Oliver's decades of community engagement led her to challenge the idea that philanthropy requires wealth or vast time commitments. In this book, you discover practical ways to integrate activism, volunteering, and everyday giving into your busy life without feeling overwhelmed. You'll learn how to identify causes that align with your values, leverage your unique skills, and create meaningful impact through consistent, manageable actions. Chapters on using social media for advocacy and starting passion projects provide concrete tools to amplify your efforts. This book suits anyone eager to contribute to social change, whether you're a newcomer or seasoned activist seeking fresh approaches.

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Best for gender equality advocates
The Uprising of Women in Philanthropy offers a rare glimpse into the Global Women’s Funding Movement, a pivotal yet often overlooked force in philanthropy. This book highlights how independent groups of women worldwide united to harness financial power for freedom and equality, crafting what the authors call Feminist Funding Principles. By exploring these principles and their impact on areas like public health, climate recovery, and democracy, the book serves as a crucial guide for anyone interested in leveraging philanthropy for systemic social change. It stands out for its focus on women’s collective leadership as a catalyst for transforming society and advancing gender equality.
The Uprising of Women in Philanthropy book cover

by Ndana Bofu-Tawamba, Ruby Bright, Stephanie Clohesy, Christine Grumm·You?

2024·232 pages·Philanthropy, Gender Equality, Social Justice, Feminist Funding, Collective Leadership

This book challenges the traditional narratives of philanthropy by centering the Global Women’s Funding Movement, a powerful yet underrecognized force that has transformed how women mobilize financial resources for systemic change. Drawing on decades of feminist activism, it reveals how women across the globe collectively harnessed money to dismantle oppression and advance gender equality. You’ll gain insight into the Feminist Funding Principles that underpin this movement, including trust-based philanthropy and radical generosity, which have driven improvements in public health, democracy, and climate resilience. This is not for those seeking generic philanthropy advice but for anyone committed to social justice and understanding the financial strategies behind women-led societal transformation.

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Best for custom giving plans
This AI-created book on philanthropy planning is designed from your unique background and goals. By sharing what aspects of philanthropy you care about and your experience level, the book focuses on emerging trends and discoveries that matter most to you. It provides a personalized exploration of how to build future-ready giving plans that align with your mission and stay ahead of changes in the field.
2025·50-300 pages·Philanthropy, Emerging Trends, Donor Engagement, Impact Measurement, Social Innovation

This tailored philanthropy book explores emerging trends and innovations shaping giving in 2025 and beyond. It examines cutting-edge developments in philanthropic approaches, focusing on your unique background, interests, and goals to deliver content that matches your mission. The book reveals how new discoveries in social impact, technology integration, and donor engagement can inspire future-ready philanthropic plans. Through a personalized lens, it delves into evolving practices that keep you ahead in a rapidly changing field, ensuring your giving strategies resonate with the latest research and insights. This custom resource fosters deep understanding and application of modern philanthropy's dynamic landscape.

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Best for faith-based philanthropy scholars
Understanding Muslim Philanthropy offers a fresh perspective on charitable practices within Muslim communities by situating them in both historical tradition and modern contexts. It explores how philanthropy is not merely a social act but deeply connected to spiritual beliefs and societal roles, using diverse case studies and religious discourse analysis. This book is geared toward those interested in the latest developments in philanthropy, especially at the intersection of religion and social impact, making it a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners navigating this complex field.
Understanding Muslim Philanthropy book cover

by Shariq A. Siddiqui, Rafeel Wasif, Micah A. Hughes·You?

2024·144 pages·Philanthropy, Religion, Social Entrepreneurship, Islamic Studies, Zakat

Drawing from a rich background in Islamic studies and sociology, Shariq A. Siddiqui, Rafeel Wasif, and Micah A. Hughes delve into the complex landscape of Muslim philanthropy, challenging conventional definitions by embedding them within a deep historical and religious context. You learn how traditional practices like zakat and sadaqa are interwoven with contemporary philanthropic efforts, supported by global case studies and analysis of social media's role in shaping giving. The book reveals the layered motivations behind Muslim giving, including spiritual devotion and societal justice, providing you nuanced insights into the relationship between faith and charity. This is particularly useful if you are engaged in philanthropy, policymaking, or academic research focused on religion and social entrepreneurship.

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Best for mindful giving strategists
Avi Zimmerman, MBA, leads Sector4 Strategy LTD in Israel and brings a wealth of experience in diplomacy, project development, and innovation mentoring to this work. His deep involvement with nonprofits, philanthropists, and government agencies underpins the book's approach, blending heritage wisdom with strategic philanthropy. Motivated by complex challenges and a desire to unlock impactful opportunities, Zimmerman's insights guide you through crafting a philanthropy plan that is both meaningful and measurable, reflecting his unique expertise in navigating intricate social landscapes.
2024·202 pages·Philanthropy, Charity, Strategic Giving, Impact Measurement, Donor Planning

Avi Zimmerman's Kosher Giving introduces a fresh, structured method for creating charitable giving plans grounded in heritage and strategic insight. Drawing from his extensive background in diplomacy and real-world crisis experience, including the Hamas-Israel conflict, Zimmerman offers practical tools like a philanthropy journal and an Excel workbook to help you clarify purpose, measure impact, and align your giving with meaningful goals. The book breaks down philanthropy into four manageable steps and explores principles from Maimonides, making it especially relevant if you want a mindful, measurable approach to generosity that goes beyond typical advice. If you're looking for a way to bring both tradition and innovation to your philanthropy, this book provides a thoughtful framework without overwhelming complexity.

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Conclusion

Across these seven books, clear themes emerge: philanthropy is becoming more strategic and data-driven, embracing technology like AI to refine impact; it is also deeply rooted in social justice movements, with growing recognition of the power of women and faith communities in shaping giving. Together, these works underscore philanthropy’s expanding complexity and relevance in addressing today’s challenges.

If you want to stay ahead of trends or the latest research, start with "The Business of Philanthropy" for strategic insights and "The Routledge Handbook of Artificial Intelligence and Philanthropy" for tech integration. For cutting-edge implementation that embraces inclusivity and grassroots action, combine "Philanthropy Unlocked" and "The Uprising of Women in Philanthropy."

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Philanthropy book to apply the newest strategies and latest research to your specific situation. These books offer the most current 2025 insights and can help you stay ahead of the curve.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "The Business of Philanthropy" if you want broad strategic insights, or "Philanthropy Unlocked" for practical ways to engage in giving and activism. Both provide accessible entry points based on your interests.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to philanthropy?

Not at all. Books like "Philanthropy Unlocked" are designed for newcomers, while others offer depth for experienced readers. You can choose based on your comfort level and goals.

Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?

"The Routledge Handbook of Artificial Intelligence and Philanthropy" leans toward theory and ethics, while "Kosher Giving" and "The Philanthropist Handbook" offer practical frameworks and planning tools.

Do these books assume I already have experience in philanthropy?

Some do, like "The Philanthropist Handbook," which covers estate planning in detail, but many provide foundational knowledge suitable for all levels, such as "Philanthropy Unlocked."

What makes these books different from others on philanthropy?

These books emphasize fresh 2025 insights, integrating technology, social justice, and diverse cultural perspectives, offering a more nuanced and forward-thinking view than traditional philanthropy texts.

Can personalized philanthropy books complement these expert works?

Yes, personalized books build on expert insights by tailoring strategies to your unique background and goals, helping you apply cutting-edge philanthropy trends effectively. Explore this option here.

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