CHIEF programme to train 1,000 in philanthropy by 2028

It has $15m in funding from Temasek Trust and Philanthropy Asia Alliance. 

The Wealth Management Institute (WMI) has introduced the Changemaker Impact Endeavour Fellowship "CHIEF" Programme, which aims to aid funders, social entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders.

The launch of the CHIEF programme is the latest addition to ACC's suite of philanthropy-focused initiatives, aiming to train 1,000 wealth owners, social innovators and philanthropy professionals by 2028.

Aligned with Singapore's vision of becoming a leading philanthropy hub, the Asia Centre for Changemakers (ACC) was established at WMI this year with $15m in funding pledged by Temasek Trust and Philanthropy Asia Alliance to bolster philanthropic capabilities. 

"ACC is dedicated to redefining philanthropy in Asia by equipping leaders with the skills and strategic insights needed to drive meaningful impact,” said Foo Mee Har, CEO of WMI.  

“Our vision is for the CHIEF programme to serve as a catalyst for fostering a lifelong community of like-minded individuals who will collaborate to develop transformative solutions for Asia," she added. 

Through a comprehensive seven-month programme, CHIEF participants will reimagine the purpose of capital, explore the impact landscape, assess the viability and scalability of impact projects, and delve into how various financial models may be suited to different contexts.

The ACC will also award scholarships to exceptional social innovators in Asia to participate in the CHIEF programme, which aims to bridge diverse perspectives, enabling both wealth owners and social innovators to co-create solutions that address complex challenges. 

Since its launch, the ACC has trained 250 participants through its philanthropy courses, including the Certified Impact Philanthropy Professional (CIPP) programme. 

The programme is developed in collaboration with the London School of Economics (LSE) Marshall Institute. 

In addition to LSE's curriculum, participants will also learn directly from global pioneers such as Jed Emerson, the creator of Total Portfolio Management and Bruno Roche, founder of the Economics of Mutuality. 

The CHIEF Programme will also include learning journeys to the UK and Asia, offering practical on-ground exposure to transformative social innovations and culminating in a roadmap for the participants' personal impact ambition.

As Asia-Pacific (APAC) anticipates a $7.5t (US$5.8t) transfer of wealth by 2030, a new generation of younger and more diverse philanthropists is emerging. Consequently, strategic philanthropy is expected to grow, underscoring the need for new skills and capabilities for the sector.

(US$1 = $1.29)