Dick and Betsy DeVos Foundation
/OVERVIEW: The Dick and Betsy DeVos Foundation supports community, education, the arts, justice and leadership in Michigan.
FUNDING AREAS: Community, education, the arts, justice, leadership
IP TAKE: Betsy DeVos is a well-known leader because of her role as the Secretary of Education; however, the accessible private foundation she created with her husband supports more than just education-related causes for Michigan organizations. Note that this is not a progressive funder, despite its giving areas, and it prioritizes charter and private schools that conflict with the needs of public education; as well, the couple are known for aligning with the religious right. Any health-related funding addressing women’s health only backs anti-abortion measures. So, if your project speaks to diversity and inclusion, or progressive causes, look elsewhere. This is a far-right funder.
PROFILE: Established in 1989, the Dick and Betsy DeVos Foundation is a private foundation based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Dick DeVos in involved with the Winquest Group that has projects in the manufacturing, clean-tech energy, technology, hospitality and nonprofit industries. He also serves on the boards of various local organizations. Betsy DeVos is the Secretary of Education and has stepped aside from her role in the foundation to pursue this career path while the couple’s children have taken on foundation leadership roles. This billionaire couple are known for their conservative beliefs and investments in charter schools. The foundation aims to "serve as faithful stewards, supporting organizations and programs that focus on community, education, the arts, justice and leadership.” It funds local efforts in these five subject areas.
The Dick and Betsy DeVos Foundation’s education grants go towards K-12 education and improving choices and access to education. Community grants are focused on making West Michigan a better place to live through community health and essential community needs. Arts grants have a national and international focus and largely help build capacity in arts leadership. Justice grants go towards efforts to assist oppressed and vulnerable people as projects align with the founders’ personal beliefs. Leadership grants train, equip and support emerging and current leaders. Overall, the foundation often provides unrestricted general operating support.
Important Grant Details:
Grants range between about $5,000 and $500,000. Learn more about this funder’s local giving by examining its recent tax records. Grantmaking largely focuses on Western Michigan, but other grants have national and international focuses. Past local grantees include the West Michigan Aviation Academy, Helen DeVos Children's Hospital and Vision to Learn.
This foundation accepts unsolicited grant applications from nonprofits. However, the trustees are unlikely to consider new grants for education initiatives or organizations unless they have received a previous foundation grant. There are no submission deadlines for grant requests. The foundation reviews new requests on a quarterly basis. Direct general questions to the staff at 616-643-4700 or via online form.
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