Who we are
We specialize in advising, structuring, and implementing high-impact philanthropic initiatives for private clients, entrepreneurs, and foundations
countries where we are active
projects selected and funded by our clients
million direct beneficiaries
million Swiss francs donated by our clients
As experts in high-impact philanthropy, we help you transform your philanthropic ambitions into sustainable impact, where it is most needed. From setting up a foundation to helping you define an area of focus and selection criteria, to implementing projects on the ground, everything we do is designed to ensure your philanthropy achieves maximum impact.
What sets us apart is our hands-on expertise at every stage of the philanthropic journey, from structuring your giving to grant-making and monitoring, as well as our highly personalized, agile approach. Our dedicated team devises a bespoke strategy that meets your unique expectations, requirements, and needs.
We combine proven processes with extensive knowledge of projects on the ground to ensure your philanthropy is implemented as effectively and efficiently as possible.
Our mission is to maximize the impact of your giving – for the beneficiaries of the projects you support, for the organizations on the ground, and for you.
We offer personalized support to bring philanthropic initiatives to life and help build a better world.
WISE was born after an inspiring conversation with a donor. As we were talking, we realized that there was an opportunity to create a new type of business. On the one hand, we regularly met people who aspired to become philanthropists but lacked the time and network to do so. On the other hand, were knew dozens of high-performing non-profits that struggled to reach potential donors.
Our history
Etienne Eichenberger and Maurice Machenbaum found WISE-philanthropy advisors
WISE is selected by the Genilem to join its 3-year startup accelerator program
Creation of Swiss Philanthropy Foundation
Etienne Eichenberger co-founds Sustainable Finance Geneva
WISE receives the CCIG Innovation Award
WISE is named “Philanthropy Team of the Year” by STEP Private Client Awards
Organization of the annual EVPA (European Venture Philanthropy Association) conference in Geneva with the support of 6 foundations; 500 participants from 34 countries
First 100 projects funded
Etienne Eichenberger becomes a member of the Advisory Board of the Debiopharm Chair for Family Philanthropy at IMD
Martial Paris joins WISE as managing partner
Creation of the Foundation Board Academy in partnership with Eckhardt Consulting and CEPS.
We also observed that some individuals with the means and desire to give were still hesitant about taking the next step, for various reasons. They didn't know enough about the organization, they weren’t sure that their donation would have an impact, and so on.
We founded WISE-philanthropy advisors as a platform to support donors throughout their philanthropic journey and ensure their donations achieved the desired impact.
We also wanted to help non-profits by offering professional guidance on how to ensure a successful outcome for the projects funded by our clients.
Today, by connecting these two worlds, WISE provides enlightened answers to the essential question of how, why and with whom to give.
Our values
Because we deliver creative, ambitious solutions that reflect the best of who we are. We optimize our processes by clearly defining roles and responsibilities. We practice transparency to ensure good communication, efficient task management, and foster a supportive culture. We meet our deadlines and always maintain a high level of quality.
Because we are reliable and true to our word. We work as a team and are attuned to our clients’ needs. We get things done by prioritizing wisely and persevering in the face of every challenge.
Because we recognize our strengths and abilities, ask for help when needed, and acknowledging our colleagues' contributions. We keep up with innovations in our field and regularly update our skills. We give and receive constructive feedback to help each other to grow and strive for excellence at all times.
Because we value dialogue with our partners and clients, and transform challenges into opportunities thanks to our optimistic mindset. We cultivate a friendly, authentic atmosphere and celebrate our successes with a grateful heart. We are aware of our contribution to bringing our vision to life.
Because we think outside the box, and encourage creativity and initiative. We accept that we will make mistakes, while striving to seize new opportunities. We take risks by implementing innovative philanthropic initiatives.
Case studies
WISE's mission was to create a clear framework for the involvement of the third generation of a philanthropic family, helping them to define selection criteria, themes and geographical areas. The project introduced the new generation to collective decision-making and family functioning. WISE's mission was to create a clear framework for the involvement of the third generation of a philanthropic family, helping them to define selection criteria, themes and geographical areas. The project introduced the new generation to collective decision-making and family functioning. Thanks to WISE, the young people developed their philanthropic strategy and selected high-impact projects.
Banque de Luxembourg's Family Practice department has commissioned WISE to accompany a group of young people in an experience of otherness. Trips to Bangladesh were organized between 2017 and 2019 to enable these young people to discover frugal entrepreneurship, risk management and leadership. These trips have fostered awareness and reflection on the individual and collective responsibility of each and every one, going beyond philanthropy.
Launched by WISE, this fund involves young people in philanthropy to support projects focusing on education and biodiversity in French-speaking Switzerland. WISE facilitated the process, connecting donors and guiding the decision-making of the young participants.