Wealthy Donors Plan Bigger Giving Over Three Years
A Goldman Sachs survey of ultra-high net worth respondents finds 41% expect to increase philanthropic giving.
Updated on Nov. 11, 2026 in Philanthropy
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In a June 2026 survey, 41% of ultra-high net worth respondents said they expect to increase philanthropic giving over the next three years, while only 3% plan to reduce it. The findings were published in Goldman Sachs Private Wealth Management's Philanthropy in Focus report.
Why it matters
The survey suggests private wealth may play a growing role in funding causes such as healthcare, pensions and social services as government debt and ageing populations increase demand. Respondents also pointed to geopolitical developments as affecting giving decisions for 45% of them.
Sixty percent of respondents give at least $250,000 a year, and 56% support education, the most-cited cause. The survey reflects stated intentions from 569 respondents, so actual future giving levels remain unverified.
The players
Goldman Sachs
A global investment bank whose Private Wealth Management division published the Philanthropy in Focus report on ultra-high net worth giving.
The details
Goldman Sachs surveyed private clients, family businesses and family offices anonymously online in June 2026. Values and beliefs were cited as the main reason for giving by 78% of respondents, and 76% use multi-year commitments either alone or alongside one-off gifts.
Timeline
June 2026: Goldman Sachs conducts the survey among ultra-high net worth respondents.
Next three years: Respondents expect to increase their philanthropic giving.
Philanthropy Trend
The survey extends Goldman Sachs Private Wealth Management's Philanthropy in Focus reporting on how wealthy donors approach giving. It links expected growth in private giving to rising global government debt and ageing populations.
Nonprofits and causes that rely on private donors may see changing funding priorities as wealthy givers plan larger commitments. The findings are based on stated intentions, so the practical effect on any individual organization is not yet measurable.
The takeaway
Families and organizations planning long-term giving can consider multi-year commitments, which 76% of surveyed respondents already use. Aligning gifts with core values remains the leading motivation cited in the survey.
Further reading
Explore more on Philanthropy and how private wealth is shaping charitable giving trends.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Private Banker International.
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