The Swiss Philanthropic Sector Joins Forces to Advance Transparency Through Better Data
A broad coalition of organisations from across the Swiss philanthropic sector has launched this year the Data Alliance Initiative, a collaboration aimed at strengthening the quality, comparability, transparency and accessibility of data on Swiss foundations.
The initiative brings together: the Center for Philanthropy Studies (CEPS, University of Basel), the Federal Supervisory Authority for Foundations (FSAF), the Geneva Centre for Philanthropy (University of Geneva), the Ostschweizer BVG- und Stiftungsaufsicht (BVS), Cenpro, proFonds, Spheriq and SwissFoundations.
By combining the perspectives of research institutions, supervisory authorities and sector platforms, the group seeks to build a shared evidence base to support transparency, policy dialogue and long-term sector development.
Why the Initiative Matters
Although foundations already submit data to supervisory authorities, reporting practices differ widely across Switzerland and no national mechanism currently exists to harmonise or publish aggregated information. This limits comparability and makes it difficult for the sector to engage in fact-based discussions with policymakers, partners and the public.
The Data Alliance Initiative aims to address this gap by working toward a coherent national data infrastructure, built on existing reporting channels and aligned with robust privacy and data protection standards.
Positive Momentum in the First Phase
The first phase focuses on compiling basic structural indicators, such as assets and expenditures, from the supervisory authorities. Initial work began with the FSAF and the CEPS, and the CEPS is currently reaching out to additional cantonal and regional authorities to ensure broader participation.
So far, two thirds of the authorities contacted have already responded positively, and follow-up with the remaining authorities is ongoing. Expenditure data may vary depending on cantonal reporting practices. A more consolidated picture will be available once all responses have been received.
A first aggregated dataset based on 2023 figures is expected in 2026, and will be presented in the next Swiss Foundations Report, which will be published in May 2026. Over time, the initiative aims to expand to a broader set of comparable indicators and to integrate a parallel track of complementary data sources and treatment, such as AI-supported analysis of annual reports and voluntary statistical contributions from foundations.
A Joint Commitment to Better Evidence and Transparency
The Data Alliance Initiative represents a collective, long-term effort to create a more consistent and reliable foundation data landscape in Switzerland. While SwissFoundations supports coordination, the initiative belongs to, and depends on, the combined expertise and engagement of all participating organisations.
Further updates will be shared as the work advances.
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