Philanthropy Advisors – Middle East
Strategic Philanthropy in Complex Environments
Abbey Solutions | Insight. Integrity. Impact.
Advising Donors on High-Impact Giving Across the Middle East
At Abbey Solutions, we specialise in identifying and evaluating high-impact philanthropic initiatives in some of the world’s most challenging regions. In the Middle East, where humanitarian need intersects with political and economic complexity, our expertise ensures that donor capital is directed where it can make a measurable, sustainable difference.
Our team conducts in-person assessments of NGOs and grassroots projects to provide independent, field-based insights for major donors, family offices, and private wealth advisors operating in the region.
Key Questions We Ask When Evaluating Projects
Every initiative is rigorously assessed against a strategic framework to ensure transparency, effectiveness, and alignment with donor objectives. We ask:
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What is the actual impact of the project on beneficiaries?
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Is the organisation transparent, accountable, and financially sound?
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How well is the project managed and governed?
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Is the programme cost-effective and scalable?
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Are there comparable initiatives operating in the region—and how does this one differ?
Case Study: Vocational Training for Young Refugees in Lebanon
On behalf of a high-net-worth donor, John Abbey conducted a detailed evaluation of youth skills training programmes in Beirut and the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon. The donor’s goal was to support projects that offered practical, high-impact education to vulnerable populations—particularly young men from Syria and the West Bank.
One such initiative, led by UNHCR, provided vocational metalwork training to refugee youth. The programme equips participants with essential skills to integrate into the Lebanese labour market—offering an alternative to long-term unemployment, marginalisation, or radicalisation.
Despite reduced funding following US budget cuts, UNHCR continues to deliver critical education and livelihood programmes. These projects offer a pathway out of dependency, enabling long-term resilience for thousands of displaced youth.
Innovation in Education: The Kayany Foundation
Just a few miles from the Syrian border, Kayany Foundation has built a pioneering model for refugee education. In areas where permanent structures are not permitted, the foundation created modular, mobile classrooms—costing under $100,000 and capable of educating nearly 800 children at a time.
Constructed from durable, climate-appropriate materials, these schools offer a safe, effective learning environment with class sizes smaller than many in Europe. The temporary design means facilities can be relocated as needs shift—making them cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable.
The energy, discipline, and enthusiasm of the students visiting these classrooms was a testament to the transformational power of access to education—even under the most difficult circumstances.
Our Approach in the Middle East
Abbey Solutions offers strategic philanthropic advisory tailored to the complexities of the Middle East region. Our services include:
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In-depth NGO due diligence
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Identification of innovative, cost-effective projects
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Direct engagement with beneficiaries and implementers
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Field visits and first-hand project verification
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Strategic alignment with donor values and goals
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Confidential guidance for risk-managed giving
We operate across Lebanon, Jordan, the West Bank, and beyond—providing actionable intelligence for donors seeking to invest in education, skills development, humanitarian relief, and sustainable community programmes.
Get in Touch
To learn more about our work in the Middle East and how we can support your giving strategy with deep field insight and trusted evaluation, please contact:
📩 Email: john @ abbeysolutions.com
📞 Phone: +44 (0)20 7859 4701
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