Global Philanthropists Circle

The Global Philanthropists Circle (GPC) is a home for leading philanthropic families and individuals, where they can share insights, learn from one another, and collectively enhance their own initiatives through the wisdom of the broader community.

The GPC is a space for learning, reflection, connecting, and action. During our convenings and retreats, members explore new ways of strengthening their philanthropic practices, rooted in Synergos’ bridging leadership approach and with an emphasis on inner work – reflective practices that deepen self-awareness, helping understand others’ perspectives and the role of systems.

We believe philanthropy is most effective when it works through collective action. When it champions systemic change. And when it is rooted in humility, self-awareness, inclusion, equity, and trust.

The Global Philanthropists Circle welcomes all individuals and families who share these values and seek to strengthen their impact and effectiveness through collaborating with peers that span diverse locations, cultures and backgrounds.

Our mission for the Global Philanthropists Circle arose in 2001, from a series of events with fellow philanthropists hosted by Synergos’ founder Peggy Dulany and her late father, David Rockefeller Senior. These philanthropists had many things in common: a desire to tackle root causes, not symptoms; a belief that collaboration was critical, not just optional; and they brought their whole selves to their philanthropy. Over twenty years later, the GPC is the preeminent global network for families that do more than give money.

Our Offerings & Advantage

The GPC is a peer community where members gain access to a global network of philanthropists committed to creating a more just, equitable, peaceful and regenerative world. Through peer connection, members learn insights from different cultures and contexts to common issues and challenges. It is a family membership with a key next-gen component which we call Rising Leaders.

With nearly 40 years of global experience in systems thinking, inner work, and collaborative leadership, Synergos supports GPC members in becoming more effective, reflective, and values-aligned in their giving. Each family is paired with a dedicated and seasoned professional on the Synergos staff with deep experience in philanthropy and social investment – who offers personalized guidance, strategic resources, and access to expansive networks to translate values into action.

The GPC isn’t just a platform for learning — it’s a network for doing. Members connect through Collaborative Communities focused on shared issue areas, with the aim of co-creating strategies, funding efforts collectively, and sustaining impact over time. These communities evolve organically, grounded in trust and shared purpose. The communities tap into the experience of both their peers and the wider Synergos network of subject area experts.

The GPC offers intimate convenings, retreats, and dialogues, both in-person and virtual that create a safe and reflective space for peer exchange, expert insight, and collective sensemaking — often absent in traditional philanthropy networks. These gatherings are designed to cultivate trust, spark new insights and help members shift thinking from individual action to collaborative approaches – guided by the Synergos’ Bridging Leadership approach.

As part of the Synergos Global Network, GPC members access a diverse ecosystem of changemakers — from grassroots innovators to senior government leaders — creating pathways for bold, cross-sector collaboration. Synergos has cultivated a wide network of organisations and individuals who practice collaboration and systemic approaches. Members benefit from Synergos’ trusted relationships across civil society, government, and social innovators across the Global South and beyond — unlocking unique opportunities for partnership, funding, and insight.

At the heart of the GPC experience is the belief that lasting systems change starts within. Inner work is the practice of cultivating self-awareness, humility, empathy, and resilience leading to greater authenticity. The GPC creates space for members to engage in reflection, dialogue, and inquiry that deepens their personal clarity and purpose. This might look like exploring questions of legacy, identity, and power; confronting limiting beliefs; or practicing presence and deep listening. This inner shift is the foundation for trusting relationships, generative dialogue, and ultimately, collective action.

Mobile phone displaying Synergos mobile app

Connecting as a community is at the heart of what the GPC is about. We offer a private online Network Platform and mobile app for members of our global networks to connect and share.

Visit platform

Trusted Peer Community
Strategic Philanthropy Support & Connections
Collective Action
Learning & Collaboration
Supporting a Global Ecosystem
Inner Work for Outer Impact
Online Platform & Mobile App

Membership criteria

Alignment

A shared belief in the principles of bridging leadership, emphasizing trust-building, collaboration, and systemic change.

A willingness to engage in inner work and reflective practices to enhance personal impact.

Commitment

Families or individuals actively engaged in significant philanthropic and social investment efforts of US$1mn+ either through direct giving, operating foundations, impact investments, or donor-advised funds.

A demonstrated commitment to addressing systemic challenges such as poverty, social injustice, and climate change.

Engagement & Confidentiality

Active participation in GPC programs, events, and collaborative initiatives. Openness to peer learning, knowledge sharing, and collective action within the GPC community.

Respect for the confidentiality of discussions and information shared within the GPC network. Adherence to community guidelines that uphold the integrity and trust of the GPC community.