Knowledge for Better Philanthropy

“Never stifle a generous impulse” was a favorite saying of Bill Hewlett. His background as an engineer influenced his philanthropic approach and has led the foundation to combine generosity with a willingness to learn, improve, and to support an ethos of learning and adaptation in the growing philanthropic sector.
The Hewlett Foundation seeks to support all foundations to achieve results with their giving, regardless of the issues they focus on. We view ourselves as citizens in a larger community of philanthropy. If we work together, learn from each other and from research about what works and what doesn’t, we can all make a bigger difference. We give grants to organizations that produce independent, high-quality knowledge about practical matters facing foundations. We support work ranging from academic centers to investigative journalism. We encourage a spirit of inquiry that promotes dialogue and debate.