$130 million new commitment: Dr. Carmen Rojas announces historic expansion of grantmaking initiative

Dr. Carmen Rojas, president and CEO of the Marguerite Casey Foundation, announced a landmark $130 million commitment to nonprofit organizations across the United States, marking the foundation’s largest-ever annual grantmaking initiative.

“In every corner of the country, nonprofits are at the heart of resilient, thriving communities,” said Dr. Rojas. “They are the organizers, educators, journalists, and service providers who show up for us every day. Today, we are showing up for them — with unprecedented investment and unwavering support.”

Founded in 2001 with funds from United Parcel Service founder Jim Casey, the Seattle-based foundation has historically awarded between $23 million and $57 million annually.

This year’s decision to draw significantly from the foundation’s endowment underscores a strong belief in meeting the urgent and evolving needs of grantees.

Already in 2025, the foundation has granted $40 million, primarily to organizations with long-standing relationships.

Approximately half of the year’s total commitments will support new grantees, including journalism-focused initiatives such as More Perfect Union, Deep South Today, and the National Trust for Local News.

“Our board made a unanimous decision to increase our giving at a time when nonprofit organizations are playing an essential role in protecting freedoms, delivering services, and strengthening democracy,” said Ian Fuller, chair of the foundation’s board of directors.

The Marguerite Casey Foundation typically offers grantees five-year funding commitments covering 25% of their operating budgets, providing long-term stability.

The foundation also maintains a policy of not accepting unsolicited applications, focusing instead on building deep, strategic partnerships with community-led organizations.

The announcement comes amid a broader philanthropic movement encouraging foundations to balance long-term asset management with urgent support for nonprofits.

Several leading organizations, including the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation and the Northwest Area Foundation, have similarly pledged to increase grantmaking this year.

“As foundations, we must ask ourselves what this moment demands,” said George Suttles, executive director of Commonfund Institute.

“Sustainable stewardship and responsive giving are not mutually exclusive — they are both essential.”

Dr. Rojas emphasized that the Marguerite Casey Foundation’s commitment is rooted in a vision of a thriving nonprofit sector as critical to the nation’s future.

“We are investing in the people and organizations who are building the communities we all want to live in,” said Dr. Rojas.

“This is not just a financial decision — it is a reflection of our values and our deep belief in the power of community leadership.”