Impact Europe, formerly known as the European Venture Philanthropy Association (EVPA), is an influential network based in Brussels, Belgium. Founded in 2004, the organisation was created to connect and support professionals mobilising capital for positive social and environmental change. Over the past two decades, it has grown from a small gathering of early venture philanthropy practitioners to a community composed of about 350 members, including impact funds, foundations, banks, corporate investors, and public funders.
The organisation’s activities revolve around increasing social progress and addressing inequalities and environmental challenges. Through events like its flagship Impact Week—hosted annually in rotating European cities—Impact Europe brings together impact investors, social innovators, and philanthropists to discuss topics such as impact measurement, blended finance, net-zero strategies, and inclusive urban development.
Beyond convening stakeholders, Impact Europe runs several initiatives. For example, the Alliance for Youth provides networks and solutions to empower underserved young people and foster social entrepreneurship among youth. Another effort, the Impact Acceleration Group, seeks ways for corporations to enhance the social value of their business practices and supply chains.
The Brussels-based network operates without strict geographic boundaries. Recent work includes strengthening impact investing ecosystems in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Impact Europe also plays a role in shaping European policy to support a more robust and inclusive impact capital market, providing practical guidance and policy recommendations.
Originally established to nurture the field of venture philanthropy in Europe, Impact Europe has matured into a central force for investing with a purpose across the continent.