Overview

On August 25, 2026, over 200 civil‑society representatives, corporate leaders and philanthropists convened at a premier hotel in Kolkata for “Setu 2026 – An Evening of Purposeful Giving”, hosted by the Kolkata chapter of Social Venture Partners (SVP) India.

Key Participants and Messages

The guest of honour was Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, who highlighted the need for patient, risk‑capital and diverse philanthropic approaches to achieve systemic social transformation. SVP Kolkata Chapter Chairperson Raj Chhajer explained that Setu is designed to showcase grassroots changemakers and create high‑impact collaborations. Infinity Group Chairman and Managing Director Ravindra Chamaria, an SVP India mentor‑partner since 2018, reiterated the joy of giving.

Financial Commitment

Collectively, the attendees pledged approximately ₹13 crore to four Kolkata‑based nonprofit organisations selected for the event. The pledged amount is intended to support initiatives across healthcare, education, disability inclusion, community development, sustainable livelihoods and rehabilitation.

Highlighted Non‑profits

  • Ek Tara – empowers disadvantaged children, especially girls, through life‑skills training, holistic education and community‑based learning.
  • VAANI Deaf Children’s Foundation – provides comprehensive support for hearing‑impaired and deaf children and their families, focusing on social inclusion, specialised education and early identification.
  • Udayan Kolkata – offers residential care, formal education and vocational training for young adults and children from leprosy‑affected families.
  • Young Men’s Welfare Society (YMWS) – serves marginalized communities, vulnerable children and women in South Bengal, primarily through its flagship primary‑education programme Khelaghar.

SVP’s Engaged Philanthropy Model

SVP India employs an “engaged philanthropy” model that blends financial capital with the time, mentorship and professional expertise of its partners. By working with selected NGOs over multiple years, SVP focuses on strengthening governance, expanding community reach and building institutional capacity.

Outlook

The event concluded with a renewed philanthropic landscape in Kolkata, positioning local grassroots organisations for sustained support through patient capital and long‑term partnerships between resource providers and frontline changemakers.