The competence center for charitable foundations Journey into the world of philanthropy: Discovering Geneva
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Philanthropy has a long history in Geneva and, over the years, many public interest foundations have been established here. Credit Suisse has also recognized the importance of Geneva as a center for philanthropy in Switzerland and is actively involved in supporting the sector’s dynamism and growth. The universal bank supports Geneva’s foundations to help them achieve their mission.
A unique ecosystem
As an international hub, center of global governance, and financial center of excellence, Geneva remains a philanthropic hotspot thanks to the many charitable foundations that have set up their headquarters there. According to the latest SwissFoundations Report (2022), there are 1,294 foundations in the Canton of Geneva, or 25.5 per 10,000 inhabitants, giving Geneva the fourth-highest concentration of foundations in Switzerland. Moreover, 48 new foundations have been created in Geneva, making it the second-fastest growing canton in Switzerland in terms of the number of philanthropic structures created.
Geneva has a strong tradition of commitment to philanthropy. This commitment has played an active role in the development of the historical city center and in the creation of several prestigious cultural and humanitarian institutions, such as the Geneva Conservatory of Music in 1858 and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in 1864. This unique ecosystem provides an environment conducive to the development of foundations and the philanthropic sector as a whole by bringing together actors, skills, and capital.
As part of its commitment to the "Spirit of Geneva," Credit Suisse has worked locally with the canton's many foundations for years, drawing on its extensive experience and the expertise of its specialists. This commitment is led by Elena Hainaut and Carine Ekmekdjian-Bijotat, two of the Competence Center Charitable Foundations' regional ambassadors. Their work, alongside that of Keyvan Ghavami and the bank's other experts, aims to support the sector's continued vibrancy and strong growth.
Strategic initiative
For 165 years we have worked to keep Switzerland competitive by promoting its infrastructure and entrepreneurship as well as its reputation as a world-class financial center. Drawing inspiration from the legacy of our founder Alfred Escher, one of the great innovators of the market economy in Switzerland, our bank is committed to transforming the practices of both the financial sector as well as those of our clients, who are increasingly concerned about their social and environmental impact.
It is in this context that the Foundations initiative has been identified as a strategic priority for the region. To this end, we have created a committee that brings together the bank's different client segments and centers of expertise. It is designed to pool all the internal skills required to meet the needs and expectations of foundations and their stakeholders in a holistic approach consistent with Credit Suisse's universal banking tradition.
Personalized support
The Competence Center Charitable Foundations is supported by several regional ambassadors, who assist founders and foundation board members throughout the life cycle of their philanthropic structure. Personally involved with nonprofit organizations, Elena Hainaut and Carine Ekmekdjian-Bijotat share their passion for the field with their clients. They each represent a distinct client segment – Private Banking and Premium Clients, respectively – and provide personalized support that reflects their clients' sensitivities and concerns as closely as possible.
This invaluable support enables foundations to establish a suitable investment strategy aligned with their charitable mission while mitigating financial and economic risks, thereby preserving their capital, expanding the scope of their projects, and ensuring that their structure remains sustainable.
Special events and networking opportunities
Credit Suisse Geneva hosts special events on new trends in the foundation sector. Featuring experts and other leading influencers, these events provide an opportunity to learn more about the issues affecting the industry. They provide a platform for participants to exchange best practices and connect with other foundations.
These events also bring philanthropists and beneficiary organizations together for unique experiences, such as when four children supported by the Make A Wish Foundation joined players before the kick-off of the UEFA Nations League matches – Switzerland v. Portugal and Switzerland v. Spain – in Geneva in June 2022.
Board Connect training
As a strong believer in the important role played by philanthropy within society, Credit Suisse has been offering Board Connect training to its employees for a number of years. This program aims to make employees aware of the sector's unique characteristics and to provide them with the necessary tools and a strong network in order to enable them to take on responsibilities on foundation boards or with other non-profit organizations.
Our employees value this opportunity to apply their expertise to a cause they are passionate about as well as perfect their skills in a field that is becoming more and more important to our clients.