The Annie E. Casey Foundation is a U.S.-based private foundation dedicated to improving outcomes for children and families through data-driven strategies, selective grantmaking, and long-term investments in community systems.
The foundation works to strengthen families, build resilient communities, and expand access to opportunity for children and young people by advancing research, supporting proven community solutions, and encouraging investment in evidence-based strategies.
The Annie E. Casey Foundation was established in 1948 through the bequest of Annie E. Casey, who created the foundation to honor the values she shared with her brothers, Jim and George Casey, founders of United Parcel Service. From its inception, the foundation focused on supporting vulnerable children and families in the United States. Over time, it evolved into a national philanthropic institution known for its emphasis on research, data, and long-term systems change. The foundation is headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, and operates solely within the United States.
The foundation uses a highly selective, staff-identified grantmaking approach focused on evidence, data, and systems-level change. It supports nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and research institutions through grants, technical assistance, leadership development, and policy analysis. In addition to traditional grants, the foundation deploys impact investments funded through its endowment. It does not accept unsolicited proposals and primarily invites organizations to apply. All grantmaking is limited to the United States, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The foundation has played a central role in shaping U.S. child and family policy through its long-term investments in data, research, and practice. Its KIDS COUNT® initiative is widely used by policymakers nationwide. The foundation has supported reforms in foster care, juvenile justice, and community development, influencing state and local systems. In 2024 alone, it awarded over 1,165 grants to more than 1,000 organizations across the country.
The foundation collaborates with nonprofit organizations, public agencies, universities, and advocacy networks across the United States. Many grantees participate in the KIDS COUNT® network. The foundation also works with research and evaluation partners and engages with policymakers to translate evidence into practice.
The Annie E. Casey Foundation is known for its strong emphasis on data-driven decision-making and long-term systems change rather than short-term program funding. Grants are intentionally selective and aligned with multi-year strategies. In addition to grantmaking, the foundation provides direct expertise, technical assistance, and leadership training to strengthen nonprofit and government capacity. It operates as a private foundation funded primarily through its endowment and impact investments. As of 2024, the foundation’s total assets were approximately USD 3.47 billion, supporting sustained philanthropic activity. The foundation does not maintain an open application portal and does not publish calls for proposals.