William and Flora Hewlett Foundation
Background
The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, established in 1966 by Hewlett-Packard co-founder William R. Hewlett and his wife Flora Lamson Hewlett, is a private charitable organization based in Menlo Park, California. The foundation's mission is to promote a better world by advancing ideas and supporting institutions across various sectors, including education, the environment, global development, performing arts, and philanthropy. With assets of approximately $13.3 billion as of 2023, it stands as one of the largest philanthropic organizations in the United States.
Key Strategic Focus
The foundation's strategic focus encompasses several core program areas:
- Education: Enhancing educational opportunities and outcomes through initiatives like "Deeper Learning," which emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills.
- Environment: Addressing climate change by supporting policies and organizations that promote clean energy and conservation efforts.
- Global Development and Population: Expanding women's reproductive and economic choices, amplifying citizen participation, and improving policymaking through evidence-based approaches.
- Performing Arts: Supporting vibrant performing arts to enrich communities and foster cultural expression.
- Philanthropy: Strengthening the philanthropic sector to enhance its effectiveness and impact.
These focus areas reflect the foundation's commitment to fostering sustainable and equitable solutions to complex global challenges.
Financials and Funding
As of December 2023, the foundation reported:
- Revenue: $602 million
- Expenses: $700 million
- Total Assets: $13.3 billion
- Total Liabilities: $349 million
The foundation's endowment returned a net 3.9% for the year ended June 30, 2022, exceeding its benchmark return of 2.9% for the same period.
Leadership Team
The foundation's leadership comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing its mission:
- Amber D. Miller: President
- Ana Marshall: Chief Investment Officer
- Brett Johnson: Deputy Chief Investment Officer and Director of Public Investments
- Luis Laboy: Director of Public Equity
These leaders bring a wealth of experience in philanthropy, investment management, and organizational leadership, guiding the foundation's strategic initiatives and operations.
Leadership Changes
In 2023, Larry Kramer stepped down as president of the foundation to become president and vice chancellor of the London School of Economics. Amber D. Miller succeeded him as president, bringing her expertise to lead the foundation into its next chapter.
Competitor Profile
As a leading philanthropic organization, the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation operates in a landscape alongside other major foundations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Ford Foundation, and the Rockefeller Foundation. These organizations share a commitment to addressing global challenges through strategic grantmaking and partnerships.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
The foundation collaborates with various organizations to amplify its impact:
- ClimateWorks Foundation: Co-founded by Hewlett in 2008 with a five-year $500 million commitment to address climate change through policy solutions.
- Energy Foundation: Supported with nearly $53 million between 2016 and 2017 to promote clean energy initiatives.
- Planned Parenthood: Provided over $100 million between 2000 and 2023 to support reproductive health services.
These partnerships reflect the foundation's commitment to collaborative efforts in achieving its strategic objectives.
Operational Insights
The foundation's operations are characterized by a strategic approach to grantmaking, focusing on measurable outcomes and evidence-based interventions. By leveraging its substantial endowment, the foundation supports initiatives that align with its mission and have the potential for significant impact.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, the foundation aims to:
- Expand Educational Initiatives: Further develop programs that enhance educational outcomes and address systemic inequities.
- Advance Environmental Sustainability: Continue supporting policies and organizations that combat climate change and promote conservation.
- Promote Global Development: Strengthen efforts to improve health, economic well-being, and governance in developing countries.
By building on its existing strengths and partnerships, the foundation seeks to drive meaningful progress in these areas.
Contact Information
- Website: hewlett.org
- LinkedIn: William and Flora Hewlett Foundation
For general inquiries, please refer to the contact information provided on the foundation's official website.
