International Fundraising East and West: Trends, Motivations and Practical Insights from the US and Asia (Part 1)

Regional giving cultures and practical fundraising approaches

Philanthropy is becoming increasingly global, yet the motivations, expectations and cultural norms that shape giving vary significantly between regions. Recent Charity Aid Foundation (CAF) and Council for Advancement of Education (CASE) and other sector specific data has highlighted shifts in donor behaviour. Such changes are also being seen across the US  and Asia, two regions that continue to influence global philanthropic flows and the strategies of UK‑based fundraisers. Understanding these differences is no longer optional; it’s essential for anyone seeking to build meaningful, long‑term relationships with donors whose perspectives, priorities and philanthropic traditions may differ from those in the UK.

This virtual discussion is designed for fundraisers in the UK looking to engage supporters in the US and Asia, as well as for colleagues from those regions seeking to understand the UK philanthropic landscape. We’ll explore cultural drivers, stewardship expectations, regulatory considerations, and the practical realities of building trust across borders. Whether you’re new to international fundraising or looking to refine your approach, this session offers grounded, experience‑led insights to help you navigate global giving with confidence.

Next week, Part 2 of the virtual discussion will be available: Building relationships across borders, regulation, risk, practicalities and future trends.

Speakers

Gordon Cox (Host)

Gordon is Director of the Academic and Education function at Philanthropy Company. A global fundraiser and human geographer, Gordon has travelled across more than 75 countries and advises universities, charities and founder‑led organisations on international philanthropy, campaign strategy and donor engagement.

His work blends sector insight with cultural understanding, helping organisations build authentic, resonant relationships with supporters around the world. Gordon has worked for six universities/ colleges in the UK and was most recently Director of Advancement at the University of Bath, before that he was a Director of an Oxford College and worked for the University of Oxford itself.

Heather Gelles-Ebner

As a consultant at Philanthropy Company, Heather brings extensive experience in US philanthropy, major gifts and global donor engagement. She is known for her practical, relationship‑centred approach and her ability to translate cultural nuance into actionable fundraising strategy.

Heather has raised transformational gifts on three continents — and spent 25 years learning what actually makes donors say yes. Having led principal gift teams at UCL and the University of Oxford and in her early career as a planned giving expert at Vassar College in New York, she has navigated the full complexity of cross-cultural fundraising.

A dual British-American citizen, she understands the philanthropic instincts, expectations and etiquette of both worlds.

Peter O’Connor

Peter is a consultant at Philanthropy Company and a specialist in international fundraising strategy. He has worked with major institutions in international markets, building global prospect pipelines and developing culturally attuned approaches to donor engagement.

His recent work includes shaping international strategies for education, culture and social impact organisations, with a particular focus on Asia.

Most recently Peter was Director of Development at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge and before that he headed the Asia portfolio for Imperial.