Maya Ziswiler, CEO of the UBS Optimus Foundation: Philanthropy, Social Investing and Creating an Impact Economy

Maya Ziswiler, CEO of the UBS Optimus Foundation, delves into the transformative role of philanthropy in creating an impact economy. The Foundation, celebrating its 25th anniversary, focuses on education, health, and environmental initiatives. Under Maya's leadership, the Foundation has seen considerable growth, and we explore its innovative approach in blending traditional grant-making with social investing and blended finance. This approach aims to drive systemic and catalytic impact for marginalized communities, leveraging philanthropic capital to attract commercial and government funding. A key element of the discussion revolves around the Foundation's thematic and social investment expertise. This expertise allows for the creation of impactful partnerships and the development of a robust pipeline for philanthropic grants and social investments. The episode also explores the Foundation's collectives, such as the social finance and climate collectives, which foster mutual learning and cross-pollination of ideas among philanthropists, experts, and grantees. Maya shares examples of innovative collaborations and the Foundation's commitment to impact transparency, including their aim of developing an impact rating tool. The episode concludes with Maya's personal journey in philanthropy and her vision for redefining its role in achieving sustainable impact. Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.