Social Enterprise Funders Network (Q1)

Over the past two decades, philanthropic funding has played a catalytic role in shaping Australia’s social enterprise ecosystem. With growing government interest and a refreshed national strategy led by Social Enterprise Australia, the sector is at a pivotal moment.

This session is the official soft launch of “Shaping & Fuelling Change – The role & practices of philanthropy in the social enterprise ecosystem in Australia”. Drawing on extensive sector engagement, the report is the first to track how philanthropy and other actors have funded and supported the ecosystem’s development over many years. Its insights highlight the diverse roles philanthropy can play and offer guidance on adopting a stronger ecosystem lens to unlock greater impact.

Research lead May Miller-Dawkins will share key findings and recommendations, followed by a Q&A with funders—the Siddle Family Foundation, English Family Foundation and Westpac Foundation.

We will also hear from Jess Moore CEO of Social Enterprise Australia on the latest developments in the national strategy which kicked off in October 2025.

Speakers:

Jess Moore, CEO, Social Enterprise Australia

May Miller Dawkins, Adjunct Senior Lecturer, University of New South Wales

Audience:

This event is for Philanthropy Australia Social Enterprise Funders Network members only.

We welcome funding members at Impact or Engage membership level and are funding or are interested in funding social enterprises.

Not a member at this level? Please reach out to [email protected]. 

Learn more about Philanthropy Australia membership.