How Indian-American Philanthropy Is Building Global Bridges

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Nearly five million people of Indian ancestry live in the United States. That makes the Indian-American population the second-largest immigrant group in the country. And as this community grows, so too does the impact of Indian-American philanthropy.

As generational wealth builds, the Indian-American community is mobilizing to support important causes in their country of origin. The benefits will be seen in the impact on those causes as well as in building global bridges by philanthropy.

The Growth Of Indian-US Philanthropy

While Indians who have made their wealth in America have a history of charitable giving, until recently, it was on a more informal basis. Money was passed on to immediate and extended family, perhaps to the village in which the donor grew up, or possibly to a religious institution of the person's faith.

In 2022, the Forbes list of the 400 richest people in America included a number of individuals of Indian origin. On a broader scale, according to Pew Research, Indians are now the highest-earning immigrant group in the U.S., with a median household income of over USD 100,000.

Successful members of the community have begun to pass this wealth on to the next generation. So not only do Indian-Americans have more money to give - and thus are able to support broader causes in India - but we are seeing the development of a "lineage of giving" along generations.

Concomitant with this growing wealth, India-focused charitable organizations are on the rise. For example, we at Pratham have seen how many children and young women in India we have been able to reach with learning opportunities as our diaspora donor base steadily grows year-on-year. Other organizations are raising awareness and increasing support from the Indian community in the U.S. for similar causes, and we are now coming together as a cohesive movement. This year sees the inaugural India Giving Day taking place on March 2, which brings together over 20 such organizations.

Charitable donations from Indian-Americans are projected to grow to USD 3 billion per year within the next decade.

What Motivates Indian-american Philanthropy?

Giving through credible, transparent channels means that Indian-Americans can connect in a meaningful and reliable way to the people from their country of origin. It allows them to see the real difference their money makes. And when donors can see that impact, giving feels joyful.

Indian-American philanthropy is also allowing donors to choose particular causes that inspire them. In my experience, many who give to Pratham do so because of the role education played in their own success. They want others to have the same chance to succeed.

The rise of philanthropy is also helping to strengthen Indian-American communities in the U.S. Charitable organizations connect people to one another, giving them a shared sense of purpose.

At Pratham, for example, our volunteers convene events across the country, mobilize others in their communities, and build lasting relationships - all of which are centered on making learning more available for children.

Building Global Bridges

The rise of Indian-American philanthropy benefits India through the additional resources that reach important causes across the country in education, healthcare, agriculture and more.

But there's a broader benefit, too.

This year, India holds the G20 presidency under the unifying banner of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam': One Earth, One Family, One Future. On unveiling the theme in November last year, Prime Minister Modi said it was "time to work together to solve global challenges."

The mobilization of an Indian philanthropic community in the United States is an example of this. Philanthropy is helping to build bridges across the globe and between countries.

I have worked with multiple global organizations in philanthropy, with much of my early career in India. Though I was born in Canada, and live in the United States now, I hold a deep connection to and with India. I have seen first-hand the difference we can make when we reach across continents and work together - and many people of Indian heritage in the U.S. are seeing the impact.

Looking To The Future

Our challenge is to ensure that the increased wealth of the diaspora, as it is passed to new generations, becomes a part of a lineage of giving. We must inspire future generations to continue building bridges to India.

That's the role we as philanthropic organizations can play. At Pratham, we are scaling our work significantly over the next five years and are looking to engage with new and diverse audiences in support of our cause. By connecting Indian communities in the U.S. through a shared goal, we can build this movement.

India's global influence is growing, evidenced by the G20 presidency, the expansion of Indian business, and the rising interest in Indian culture. Pratham's work has found relevance in 23 countries around the world. Let's capitalize on these trends to cast the net wider and bring greater diversity to our causes. Philanthropy can build bridges within families, between individuals, and across countries. I am proud the Indian diaspora is helping build these bridges and is a growing force for global solidarity and social change.

The article has been contributed by Manisha Bharti, CEO of Pratham USA and Global Executive; Co-Chair, National Steering Committee, India Giving Day (an initiative of the India Philanthropy Alliance).