In 1997, Jiří Bárta co-founded the Via Foundation. Via is a grantmaking and endowed foundation based in Prague, Czech Republic that gives people tools to make a difference where it matters most to them – in their communities. Jiří served as Via’s Executive Director for 22 years and currently leads Via Foundation’s 2nd major donor campaign to increase its endowment.
In 2016, Jiří co-founded Via Clarita that helps Czech philanthropists to find meaning of their wealth and to accomplish their philanthropic dreams. Via Clarita provides independent philanthropic advice and inspiration. Jiří serves as Via Clarita Board Chair.
Prior to joining the foundation world, Jiří was a management consultant to NGOs, municipalities and businesses. He holds a Masters degree in Public Management from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh and a Masters degree in Systems Engineering from Czech Technical University.
Since 2001, Jiří served as a member of the Advisory Committee to the Transatlantic Community Foundation Network funded by the C. S. Mott and Bertelsmann Foundations.