NCSS Launches Sustainable Philanthropy Framework for Businesses in Singapore to Measure Social Impact

The National Council of Social Service (NCSS) has unveiled its Sustainable Philanthropy Framework, designed to aid businesses in enhancing brand value and adopting a sustained, long-term approach to philanthropy. This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive mechanism for businesses to measure and improve the outcomes of their philanthropic activities.

The Framework was officially launched by Mr. Masagos Zulkifli, Singapore Minister for Social and Family Development and Second Minister for Health, during the Singapore Apex Business Summit:

It is intended to help businesses align their social and business goals, fostering a culture of sustained giving. The Framework emphasizes the ‘Social’ component of the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) sustainable goals and supports social empowerment in line with the ForwardSG movement.

“Businesses that address societal challenges could potentially gain a competitive advantage as customers, employees, and investors increasingly value companies that champion sustainability and social causes,” shared Minister Masagos at the launch.

Developed in partnership with the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC), the Singapore Centre for Social Enterprise (raiSE), the Ministry of Social and Family Development, and the SG Cares Office, the Framework encourages cross-sector partnerships. These collaborations between corporates and social service agencies aim to leverage domain expertise to co-create solutions for complex social issues and enhance philanthropic impact.

“Businesses often ask how they can practice corporate social responsibility in a more systematic manner to make a bigger impact. The Sustainable Philanthropy Framework helps them direct their giving and volunteering, and make inclusive business decisions, in ways that create stronger social outcomes. By aligning their philanthropic efforts with corporate purpose, businesses can Do Good and Do Well at the same time,” said Ms. Tan Li San, Chief Executive Officer of NCSS.

Over 100 businesses were engaged in the design and validation process to ensure the Framework’s relevance and utility. NCSS also developed an interactive playbook to guide businesses in starting their philanthropic journey, creating value for both their business and the community by addressing complex social issues.

NCSS is collaborating with partners such as the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA), NVPC, SG Enable, raiSE, the Singapore Business Federation, the Singapore Institute of Directors, and the Singapore Exchange to promote the Framework and build capabilities for its adoption. ISCA, for instance, has included a Sustainable Philanthropy module within its sustainability curriculum for professional certifications.

“We are glad to partner with NCSS on the Sustainable Philanthropy Framework to strengthen Singapore’s social compact. We hope our efforts will encourage businesses and professional firms to develop initiatives that give back to the community and promote responsible corporate citizenship,” said ISCA President Mr. Teo Ser Luck.

Feedback from over 40 businesses participating in the Early Adopters Programme indicates that the Sustainable Philanthropy Framework has helped them better structure their philanthropic efforts. These businesses took part in workshops, tailored clinic sessions, and monthly check-ins to strategise their philanthropic activities, aiming to sustainably resource the sector.