The philosophical foundation of the Association is to promote philanthropy and a culture of giving in East Africa through harnessing local resources and also establish gateway and relationships on which foreign funders can support grantmaking in East Africa. The East Africa Association of Grantmakers has a membership of 15 organizations, foundations and trust drawn from the three East African Countries.

To promote philanthropy, the Association established a code of ethics, which guides members in their grantmaking activities to ensure effective development. Experiences and challenges are shared among members and partners through the Association’s website and Newsletter that were established to encourage information sharing.