In 2023, Kosovo witnessed an impressive surge in philanthropic donations, reaching 8,740,940.3 euros from 793 donations. This marked a significant increase from the 3,455,000 euros donated in 2022. Here's a closer look at the role of the business sector in this growing culture of giving.

Corporate Giving in 2023: Key Points

Corporate donations in 2023 amounted to 629,430 euros, representing 7.2% of the total donations. Comparatively, citizens led the donations with 45.8% (4,000,069 euros), followed by mixed donors at 27.9% (2,436,899 euros) and individuals at 11.4% (996,854 euros). Other donors contributed 4.6% (400,500 euros), while nonprofit organizations accounted for 3.2% (277,187 euros).

Corporate donations in Kosovo were distributed among various recipients. Nonprofit organizations received the majority, accounting for 62.2% of donation instances and 48.5% of the monetary value. Individuals or families were the recipients in 24.4% of the instances, receiving 16.2% of the donated amount. Public institutions accounted for 5.6% of donation instances and received 2.7% of the monetary value. Notably, institutions of local and national governments, although receiving only 4.4% of the donation instances, were allocated a significant 31.8% of the total donated sum.

These donations were directed towards a variety of causes, reflecting the sector's commitment to addressing diverse social issues. Poverty relief accounted for 34.4% of donation instances but only 1.4% of the donated amount. Support to marginalized groups was a significant focus, comprising 26.7% of instances and receiving 32.0% of the funds. Other causes, including economic development, natural disaster/emergency management, public infrastructure, and seasonal giving, represented 16.7% of instances and received 31.8% of the donations. Healthcare was supported in 12.2% of instances, with 21.5% of the funds, while education accounted for 10.0% of instances and 13.3% of the donated amount. This significant allocation of funds towards marginalized groups and healthcare highlights a strategic focus on addressing critical community needs.

Examples of Giving
  •  Empowering Communities: NLB Bank Kosovo's Philanthropic Endeavors

NLB Bank Kosovo contributed 100,000 euro to bolster the operations of six civil society organizations and institutions. These entities cater to various sectors, including childcare, elderly care, and support for employees. The beneficiaries encompassed the Association Help for Children with Cancer, Handikos in Podujeva, Autism Speaks, Home of Elderly Persons in Prishtina, SOS Children's Villages Kosovo, and The Fund for NLB Bank employees.

"NLB Banka donates €100,000 to charity"
Photo source: NLB Bank official website
  •  Kin+Carta Kosovo Champions Children's Health with Generous Donation to NGOs

“Kin+Carta Kosovo” demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility by donating 40,000 euros to a private foundation in Prishtina dedicated to supporting children with cancer. This generous contribution was part of the "Tech for Tiny Fighters Football Tournament" initiative, aimed at aiding children battling cancer. Such donations highlight the critical role of technology firms in addressing healthcare challenges and supporting vulnerable populations.

  •  Empowering Healthcare: IPKO's Generous Donation on World Cancer Day

On World Cancer Day, the telecommunications company “IPKO,” made a generous donation to the Oncology Clinic in the University Clinical Center of Kosovo (UCCK). They provided 400 essential care packages which included blankets, pillows, neck warmers, headphones, towels, a small first aid kit, and many other  necessary items for treatment. Additionally, “IPKO” donated five chemotherapy beds, 100 breast prostheses and 100 bras needed after breast cancer treatment, 38 wigs, and internet and digital television services for three years to the Department of Hemato-Oncology. For the Pediatric Clinic, IPKO contributed with 150 sets of sheets, 100 sheets, 70 quilts, 100 pillows, a washing machine, and a dryer, addressing critical needs of the clinic. Finally, the company also donated a sophisticated “Versana Essential,” a versatile and flexible ultrasound system that detects cancer in the early stages, to the Family Medicine Center of Hani i Elezit. The total value of this donation amounts to 50,000 euro.

  •  Partnerships for Change: Beiersdorf and Alexander Chapman Recruitment Aid SOS Children's Villages Kosovo

“Beiersdorf” donated 5,000 euros to SOS Children's Villages Kosovo to cover hygiene expenses, demonstrating a commitment to supporting nonprofit organizations. Additionally, “Alexander Chapman Recruitment” made a substantial donation of 50,000 euros to the same organization for humanitarian support.

These donations highlight the importance of collaboration between businesses and civil society organizations in supporting causes of public benefit.

Conclusion

In 2023, corporate philanthropy in Kosovo, although less frequent, played a crucial role in addressing key social issues. With 629,430 euros donated, the business sector's contributions were vital in supporting nonprofits, individuals, families, and public institutions. The emphasis on supporting marginalized groups, healthcare, and local government institutions underscores the corporate sector's potential to drive meaningful social change.

Encouraging more frequent and larger corporate donations could significantly amplify the impact on the common good, fostering a more equitable and sustainable future for Kosovo.

Main photo: Prishtina by Arben Llapashtica

 

This article is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of Catalyst Balkans and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

The Citizen Engagement Activity in Kosovo is a five-year initiative implemented by Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF) in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).