Hong Kong Jockey Club Concludes Fourth Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum
The Hong Kong Jockey Club has wrapped up the fourth Philanthropy for Better Cities (PBC) Forum, its largest to date. Nearly 100 speakers and more than 2,000 participants gathered at the West Kowloon Cultural District, representing over 200 local, regional, and international foundations. The crowd was diverse, the conversations lively, and the focus clear: how philanthropy can meet the needs of fast-changing cities.
Working Together for Greater Impact
Organized by The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Charities Trust in partnership with the Institute of Philanthropy (IoP)—which was established by the Club—the Forum brings together people who shape giving in Asia and beyond. The IoP aims to promote effective, evidence-informed practices in philanthropy and to make collaboration easier across sectors. In that spirit, the PBC Forum serves as a platform to exchange insights, build partnerships, and advance practical strategies for urban challenges through philanthropic action.
What Stood Out This Year
Over two days, attendees explored pressing issues and new ways to engage. Conversations centered on sustainable urban development, social equality, and how community voices can inform philanthropic choices. The tone was pragmatic: what works, what doesn’t, and what can be done next.
A key moment was the launch of the Commission on Asian Philanthropy. The initiative is designed to deepen understanding of how philanthropy can be most effective in Asian contexts and to encourage a shared framework for collaboration among foundations working across the region.
Giving, Done Well, Changes Outcomes
Speakers returned often to the same idea: when giving is strategic, it can deliver sustainable change. They highlighted approaches that start with local knowledge, listen to communities, and align efforts across the public, private, and social sectors. Rather than one-off projects, the emphasis was on long-term partnerships that address root causes while meeting immediate needs.
Setting Direction for the Work Ahead
The newly formed Commission on Asian Philanthropy aims to guide efforts that respond to regional social needs and to make collaboration easier among foundations. By strengthening networks of support and aligning goals, the Commission seeks to improve the practice of philanthropy across Asia and, over time, to set a higher bar for what effective giving looks like.
Arts and Sports as Catalysts
One session—“Motivating Project MuSE”—looked at how arts and sports can expand the reach and relevance of philanthropy. Oscar-winning screenwriters and Olympic athletes joined the discussion, sharing how investment in these fields can enrich everyday life, open doors for young people, and build a sense of shared culture. The message was straightforward: creative and athletic spaces help communities connect, and philanthropy can help those spaces grow.
Building Community, One Program at a Time
As the Forum drew to a close, participants underscored the value of weaving arts and sports into charitable work. Programs in these areas can lift communities, give young people reasons to show up and try, and foster the social cohesion that keeps neighborhoods resilient. Small steps—well supported—can add up.
Looking Forward
The Hong Kong Jockey Club is known for its equestrian heritage, but its charitable footprint has become just as visible. With ongoing initiatives and new frameworks like the Commission on Asian Philanthropy, the Club continues to help shape how giving is practiced in the region. The relationships formed and ideas tested at the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum are set to travel home with participants—and, with a bit of persistence, to translate into work that lasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Philanthropy for Better Cities (PBC) Forum?
The PBC Forum is an event organized by The Hong Kong Jockey Club to advance thoughtful, effective philanthropy. It brings together practitioners and partners to share insights, compare approaches, and collaborate on solutions to urban challenges.
Who took part in this year’s Forum?
Nearly 100 speakers and more than 2,000 delegates attended, representing over 200 local, regional, and international foundations and coming from 40 countries.
What is the Commission on Asian Philanthropy?
It’s a new initiative launched at the Forum to improve the effectiveness and understanding of philanthropy in Asia. The Commission promotes collaboration among foundations and encourages a shared framework for doing the work well.
Why do arts and sports matter in philanthropy?
Support for arts and sports can strengthen communities, inspire young people, and create spaces where people connect. Those outcomes are central to social cohesion and cultural engagement, which philanthropy often aims to foster.
How can I get involved in philanthropic efforts?
You can explore partnerships with established foundations, contribute to community projects, or take part in gatherings such as forums and workshops to learn, connect, and act alongside others.
