The TPI Study of the Philanthropic Conversation – Executive Summary

The vast majority of high-net-worth (“HNW”) individuals give to charity and many feel that philanthropy is an important aspect of their wealth experience. Professional advisors (“advisors”) have the access and opportunity to influence the way their clients allocate their wealth and are therefore uniquely positioned to support their clients’ giving. At the same time, HNW individuals are increasingly relying on advisors to assist with their charitable activity.

To better understand the extent and dynamics of philanthropic conversations taking place between wealthy individuals and their advisors, The Philanthropic Initiative (TPI) for the third time since 2013 conducted a national study of advisors’ approaches to and HNW clients’ expectations of these discussions. The research provides valuable information for advisors and their clients as well as nonprofit professionals and others interested in philanthropy.

The following key findings from TPI’s Study of the Philanthropic Conversation, conducted from December 2025 through January 2026, are based on an online survey of a random sample of 300 advisors – including wealth advisors, trust and estate attorneys, accountants, and other tax professionals – and a random sample of 103 HNW individuals (“clients”) with $5 million or more in investable assets who are actively engaged in charitable giving. The study was conducted by MarketCast, an independent market research firm, on behalf of TPI and was co-sponsored by DAFgiving360™ and Foundation Source, with additional support from the Boston Foundation.