Research on rural philanthropy in Atlantic Canada was shared at the recent 8th Annual Conference of the Association of Nonprofit and Social Economy Research. Ryan Gibson (University of Guelph), Joshua Barrett (University of Prince Edward Island), Kelly Vodden (Grenfell Campus, Memorial University), and Edmund Yirenkyi (Grenfell Campus, Memorial University) shared a presentation titled “Investing in Place and Potentials: Rural Philanthropic Themes and Trends from Atlantic Canada”.

With the growing sustainability challenges facing communities around the globe, the presentation examined the current and potential role of philanthropy in enhancing community resilience and sustainability in rural Atlantic Canada. The philanthropic landscape in the region is explored through analysis of Canada Revenue Agency data and wealth projections. Building on a series of research and community-led initiatives across the region, the presentation illuminates cross cutting philanthropic themes including climate change and environmental conservation, health, Indigenous reconciliation, role of interdisciplinary partnerships, and the grant making ecosystem.

This research is currently being prepared for publication as an edited volume with the Island Studies Press. Stay tuned for more information on the edited volume.