About
ClimateWorks Foundation is a San Francisco-based philanthropic organization on a mission "to end the climate crisis by amplifying the power of philanthropy." Established in 2008, ClimateWorks acts as a catalyst connecting funders with implementing organizations to develop and scale climate solutions across sectors and regions. Since its founding, the foundation has granted over $2 billion to more than 850 grantees, working with over 80 funder partners and in more than 65 countries.
Mission
ClimateWorks exists to end the climate crisis by amplifying the power of philanthropy — pooling and directing philanthropic capital, research, and strategy so that funders and implementing organizations can create faster, greater impact together.
What they do
ClimateWorks manages more than a dozen global program areas, including:
- Adaptation and resilience
- Aviation
- Carbon dioxide removal
- Cooling
- Food and agriculture
- Forests and land use
- Industry
- Just transition
- Maritime shipping
- Minerals for transition
- Power
- Road transportation
- Sustainable finance
Its team of researchers, strategists, collaborators, and grantmakers brings expertise in climate science, strategic philanthropy, public policy, and social and economic development.
History
ClimateWorks Foundation was established in 2008. In 2023 the organization received the Stars of STEM award from the Museum of Science in Boston.
Scale and impact
- Over $2 billion in grants distributed since founding
- More than 850 grantees supported
- Work spanning 65+ countries
- Partnerships with more than 80 funders
Financials
According to IRS Form 990 data on ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer (fiscal year 2024), Climateworks Foundation (EIN 26-2303250) reported total revenue of $350.6 million, total expenses of $317.3 million, and net assets of $441.4 million. Contributions accounted for about 95.5% of total revenue ($334.8 million), with investment returns contributing roughly 4.1%. The foundation held total assets of about $533 million against liabilities of $91.8 million.
Governance
ClimateWorks Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, tax-exempt since February 2009 per IRS records. It is classified by the IRS as a fund-raising and fund-distribution organization within science and technology research services.
