Philanthropic services

Trust and estate services

Create a lasting legacy and make a difference for causes that are important to you. Learn how we can help you fulfill your giving goals.

Throughout your lifetime or as part of your estate, giving back to the causes that are important to you through strategic philanthropy can be an effective approach to creating a real and lasting impact in your community and beyond.

Supported by a team of professionals with extensive experience in philanthropic and charitable giving services, RBC Royal Trust offers customized support in the operation and administration of private foundations and donor-advised funds within a public foundation.

Our philanthropic services

RBC Royal Trust Philanthropic Services can help you in fulfilling your giving goals and create a lasting legacy.

Private foundation

If you’re looking to create a uniquely named, independent charitable foundation to carry your (or your family’s) values into the future, a private foundation may be the right option for you.

While private foundations can be established with any amount, they are typically used when making larger gifts ($1M and up) as part of a focused and dedicated philanthropic strategy. One where you have the choice to retain governance control and decision-making related to the administration of the foundation and grant disbursement direction.

We can help you realize your giving intentions by providing a customized solution to support the operation and administration of your private foundation, including:

  • Investment management¹
  • Trustee services
  • Recordkeeping
  • Board and committee meeting facilitation
  • Compliance and administration services
  • Granting disbursement and awards program management

Public foundation

A donor-advised fund within a public foundation can be an efficient way of making charitable gifts and grant disbursements to your favourite causes through registered charities.

With a minimum initial contribution of $25,000, you can give, grow and grant your donations without the initial setup costs and ongoing administrative, operating and governance responsibilities that come with the management of your own private foundation. This donor-advised fund can also be named as you wish.

This may be the right option for you if you’re looking to be more strategic in your giving while your trusted investment professional continues to manage the assets in a segregated investment account.

The donor-advised fund is established with Gift Funds Canada² You will have the confidence in knowing that all oversight and administrative tasks for Gift Funds Canada are taken care of through the Foundation’s servicing partnership with RBC Royal Trust Philanthropic Services.

However you choose to give, we provide you with the peace of mind of knowing that your charitable intentions are being fulfilled and administered with knowledge and care.

¹ Where RBC Royal Trust has been appointed as trustee of the private foundation.
² Donations are made to, and donation tax receipts are issued by, Gift Funds Canada.

Let us guide you


Contact one of our skilled RBC Royal Trust professionals to find out more about the right services for you.

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