Post-Growth Philanthropy in Canada: Possibilities, Limits, and Tensions

Justification of research project

Canadian philanthropy has made progress in advancing social and environmental justice, notably through responsible investing and support for marginalized communities. However, these efforts remain largely embedded within a dominant ideology of continuous economic growth known as “growthism” which remains unchallenged. Yet, many scholars argue that this very focus on growth underpins the social and ecological crises philanthropy seeks to address.

There is a pressing need to examine the ideological foundations of contemporary philanthropic practice and explore alternative frameworks, such as post-growth approaches. This project addresses both theoretical and practical needs: to understand how current philanthropic models are entangled with the growth paradigm, to identify emerging post-growth philanthropic practices in Canada, and to provide strategic tools to reorient the sector. By challenging the assumption that “more is always better,” this research opens pathways for more sustainable, equitable, and transformative forms of giving.

Research question

How do current philanthropic approaches reinforce or challenge the ideology of growth, and what concrete practices enable a transition toward post-growth philanthropy in Canada?

Research purpose

This project explores the ideological and practical foundations of post-growth philanthropy in Canada. It has two main objectives: (1) theorize how current philanthropic models are entangled with the ideology of growth; and (2) identify and analyze post-growth philanthropic practices. The study will produce an original typology and detailed case studies of Canadian foundations engaging with post-growth approaches.

Research approach

This qualitative research will unfold in several phases:

• Analyze Canada Revenue Agency data (T3010 forms) to build a dataset of justice-oriented philanthropic practices.

• Identify and classify post-growth practices within this dataset.

• Conduct in-depth case studies of five grantmaking foundations using expert interviews, document analysis, and thematic coding.