Hearst Foundations
Founded 1946
About
The Hearst Foundations identify and fund outstanding nonprofits to ensure that people of all backgrounds in the United States have the opportunity to build healthy, productive, and inspiring lives. The Hearst Foundations support organizations working in the fields of culture, education, health, and social services.
The Hearst Foundation, Inc. was founded by William Randolph Hearst in 1946. In 1949, Hearst established the California Charities Foundations, later renamed The William Randolph Hearst Foundation. Both Foundations are guided by the same charitable mission, which reflects the philanthropic interests of their founder. The Hearst Foundations are independent private philanthropies operating separately from the Hearst Corporation.
The two Foundations are managed as one entity, sharing the same funding guidelines, leadership, and staff. Since their inception, the Foundations have made over 21,000 grants to nearly 6,000 organizations, totaling more than $1.2 billion in funds awarded. The current asset value of the Foundations is approximately $1 billion.
The Hearst Foundations are proud to support the work of the National Museum of American Diplomacy, whose educational mission provides the tools and experiences for young Americans to learn how to practice diplomacy. Through the interactive museum exhibits, immersive educational programs, and programs for teachers and students across the country, the future leaders of our nation can begin to learn how to preserve the peace we value dearly through discourse, civility, and understanding.