Drawing together diverse debates, our paper systematically reviews and synthesizes academic literature on philanthrocapitalism. Notwithstanding philanthrocapitalism's growing significance, relevant scholarly discourse remains limited and fragmented. Philanthrocapitalism-the strategic application of market methods and motives for philanthropic purposes-plays increasingly prominent roles in policy design and implementation at national and international levels. Noting the emergence of similar philanthronationalist practices in Myanmar, the article concludes by arguing that the Sri Lankan case is unlikely to be unique and calls for further research into the partnerships that emerge between private philanthropy and nationalist movements in conflict/post-conflict processes around the world. Drawing on ethnographic research into indigenous forms of corporate social responsibility (CSR), the article identifies four kinds of philanthronationalist practice - passive, assimilative, reactive and collaborative - that provide a logic, mechanism and ethic for private sector development initiatives in the island whilst promoting a vision of the ‘Sinhala Buddhist’ nation state. This article explores the rise of ‘philanthronationalism’ in Sri Lanka: the co-development of business and philanthropy methods as a response to patronage, nationalization and militarization in the post-war environment. Over the past few years, the role of private sector organizations as actors and investors in development processes has received increased attention.

Ceylinco life theme song