Through the World Bank Group’s new Philanthropy Hub, CAPS will share research, data and on-the-ground insight on Asian philanthropy, helping connect private social investment with shared development objectives as traditional funding models come under pressure.
HONG KONG, 22 October 2026 — The Centre for Asian Philanthropy & Society (CAPS) announces that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the World Bank Group, to collaborate through the World Bank Group’s Philanthropy Hub. The MOU was signed in Hong Kong by Ronnie C. Chan, Chairman and Co-Founder of CAPS and Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group.
The Philanthropy Hub was launched earlier this month at the first World Bank Group Philanthropy Forum during the World Bank Group–IMF Annual Meetings in Bangkok. It serves as a single-entry point for philanthropic organizations seeking to work with the World Bank Group, and knowledge sits at the heart of its partnership model. CAPS joined the Hub as a Knowledge Partner at its launch. The MOU formalizes that partnership, with a particular focus on deepening collective understanding of the philanthropy ecosystem in Asia and strengthening the flow of knowledge between philanthropic stakeholders and the World Bank Group.
The agreement with the World Bank Group’s International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) comes as development needs across Asia grow and aid budgets tighten, placing greater emphasis on private capital. Under the MOU, CAPS will share research and data on Asia’s philanthropy ecosystem, including its actors, funding flows and trends. CAPS and the World Bank Group will also work together to surface emerging issues and knowledge gaps and to explore joint research.
“Asian philanthropists have long given close to home, guided by a deep understanding of their communities and the systems they work within,” said Ronnie C. Chan, Chairman and Co-Founder of CAPS. “As the world rethinks how development is financed, that experience deserves a seat at the table. This partnership ensures the perspectives of Asian philanthropy help shape how philanthropic capital and development institutions work together.”
“When we founded CAPS, there was very little data on how Asians give,” said Dr. Ruth A. Shapiro, Co-Founder and Chief Executive of CAPS. “Today, Asian philanthropy is one of the most dynamic forces in development, with its own motivations, structures and strengths. This partnership puts that evidence where it can shape how development institutions work with Asian funders.”
“As development needs grow and resources come under pressure, partnership matters more than ever. Philanthropic organizations bring deep expertise and innovative solutions that align closely with our core missions and jobs agenda. The Philanthropy Hub will connect ideas, resources and partners to take those solutions to scale, and to deliver for people and communities around the world,” said Paschal Donohoe, Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer of the World Bank Group.
About the Centre for Asian Philanthropy & Society (CAPS)
Established in 2013 and working across more than 17 economies in Asia, the Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society (CAPS) is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the quantity and quality of philanthropic and private giving throughout Asia. Our mission is to maximize private capital for public good, conducting research, advisory, convening and capacity-building to engage philanthropists, foundations, family offices, corporates, government bodies, social sector organizations and experts on best practices, models, policies and strategies to facilitate private giving and social investment in the region. For more information, visit caps.org and LinkedIn.
Media contact: Julianna Barcela | comms@caps.org
CAPS Media Kit 2026 (Photos and Press Releases in English & Chinese)