Regional Economic Growth and Philanthropy in Italy: An Econometric Approach

This study investigates the relationship between philanthropy and regional economic growth, with a focus on the role of social capital as a mediator between these two factors. Employing an econometric model based on Italian regional panel data collected between 2015 and 2019, this study investigates the impact of nonprofit organisations and volunteering on regional GDP growth. The results confirm the contribution of philanthropy to the growth of social capital. The analysis also highlights the disparities between the northern and southern regions: in the former, which are richer, there is a greater willingness to philanthropy. The study shows empirical evidence in the Italian context, underlining the importance of encouraging volunteering by strengthening public–private partnerships. The study recommends policies that promote philanthropy to support regional economic and social development.