Give like you invest: how thoughtful philanthropy delivers greater impact for children

The team at J.P. Morgan, the world’s largest bank, recently hosted a client lunch in Manchester, convening senior leaders for a wide-ranging discussion on economic growth, regional investment and the role of philanthropy in driving long-term social and economic progress.

The speakers were SHINE’s founding Trustee, Jim O’Neill, and the charity’s chief executive, Fiona Spellman.

Sam Fearon, Executive Director at J.P. Morgan, said: “We had an important discussion on social mobility and early intervention, particularly the work of SHINE, which is doing outstanding work to improve life chances for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“Fiona Spellman shared SHINE’s approach to funding innovation in education and assessing return on investment.”

In her remarks, Fiona set out how SHINE unlocks innovation in education through strategic, long-term philanthropy.

She began by drawing a parallel with the world of finance: “The same discipline that makes capital effective in business is exactly what makes philanthropy effective in education – particularly for disadvantaged learners.”

Fiona emphasised that while public funding is essential for sustaining education systems at scale, it is necessarily cautious, shaped by budget cycles, procurement rules and political scrutiny. That caution makes it effective at maintaining what exists, but often slower to test new approaches.

“This is where philanthropy has a unique role. It can operate with a different risk profile. It can move earlier, faster and with more flexibility. It can fund pilots, proof-of-concept programmes and new delivery models before there is a long evidence trail. Philanthropy can be the risk capital of social progress.”

However, she stressed that risk must be matched with rigorous evaluation.

“Innovation without discipline is just experimentation. And experimentation without measurement is just guesswork.

“Effective philanthropy should mirror effective investment: clear objectives, defined outcomes, evidence-based partner selection and rigorous performance management.”

Fiona also highlighted a regional imbalance: despite significant need, only around 9% of UK philanthropic giving goes to the North of England – an underinvestment that represents both a social and economic inefficiency.

We are very grateful to JP Morgan for this opportunity and for the work they do with clients to encourage thoughtful, strategic philanthropy in areas of greatest need.

If you are considering your own philanthropic journey and would like to arrange a call, please contact info@shinetrust.org.uk.