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Speaker Bio:

Professor Zheng Wenjuan

Assistant Professor, Division of Social Science

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)

Prof. Zheng is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Social Science at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). Prior to joining HKUST, she served as a postdoctoral fellow at the Stanford Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society. Wenjuan earned her Ph.D. in Sociology from the CUNY Graduate Center and holds a Master's degree from Columbia University. Her research interests lie at the intersection of civil society, organizational studies, and technology, with a particular focus on contemporary China. Wenjuan's work critically examines how corporate social responsibility initiatives by leading technology firms are transforming the landscape of the Chinese civic sector, illuminating the complex dynamics among corporate influence, state intervention, and social engagement.

Abstract:

Addressing social problems often necessitates substantial collaboration among organizations. While existing literature has thoroughly examined the benefits and challenges of such collaboration within the nonprofit sector, it predominantly draws on Western experiences, often assuming a natural partnership between foundations and NGOs for collective social problems. However, less is known about how these partnerships form and dissolve in contexts characterized by tightening nonprofit regulations and a rapidly evolving digital landscape. This paper critically examines how the platformization of nonprofits enhances collaboration and networks, emphasizing its role in transforming the sector from independent organizations to interdependent networks. Utilizing network analysis of big data alongside qualitative interviews with representatives from a tech company, I explore the dynamics of strategic collaboration between foundations and NGOs. My findings reveal a dramatic increase in network density from 2015 to 2021, indicating a rise in strategic collaborations among various actors in the field.

Title: LEWI Seminar Series - Platforming the Civil Sector: Connecting Chinese Civic Archipelago

Date: 13 November 2025 (Thursday)

Time: 15:00 – 16:30

Venue: AAB1045, 10/F, Academic and Administration Building, Baptist University Road Campus, Hong Kong Baptist University

Registration: [LEWI Seminar Series] Platforming the Civil Sector: Connecting Chinese Civic Archipelago – Fill out form (or scan the QR code on the poster)

Inquiries:

lewi@hkbu.edu.hk

(852) 3411-5352