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Goizueta Foundation Inc

Annual Giving
$33.7M
Grant Range
$175K - $15.0M
Decision Time
7mo

The Goizueta Foundation Inc

Quick Stats

  • Annual Giving: $33,722,139 (2023)
  • Total Assets: $423.6 million (2023)
  • Success Rate: Not publicly disclosed
  • Decision Time: 6-12 months (bi-annual board meetings in May and November)
  • Grant Range: $175,000 - $15,000,000
  • Average Grant: $330,609
  • Grant Duration: Typically 3 years
  • Geographic Focus: 11-county metropolitan Atlanta area

Contact Details

Address: 4401 Northside Parkway, Suite 400, Atlanta, GA 30327

Phone: 404-239-0390

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://goizuetafoundation.org

Online Application Portal: goizuetafoundation.givingdata.com/portal/campaign/2020onlineapp

Pre-Application Support: The foundation strongly encourages eligible organizations to schedule introductory meetings with program staff before submitting applications.

Overview

Established in 1992 by Roberto C. Goizueta, the former CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, The Goizueta Foundation is an independent private foundation based in Atlanta, Georgia. With total assets of $423.6 million and annual giving of approximately $33.7 million, the foundation has provided support for more than 297 organizations through 630 grants totaling over $595 million since inception. The foundation's mission is "Giving young people the opportunity, through education, to succeed." Under the leadership of Chair and CEO Olga Goizueta Rawls, the foundation maintains an "iterative and conversational grantmaking process" that emphasizes partnership over transactional philanthropy. In 2024, the foundation established a refreshed strategic direction focusing on early learning, K-12 education, higher education, and building a stronger Atlanta. Recent major grants include a $50 million commitment to establish the Goizueta Institute @ Emory Brain Health and a $15 million grant to construct the Goizueta Stage for Youth and Families at the Robert W. Woodruff Arts Center.

Funding Priorities

Strategic Focus Areas

Early Learning

  • High-quality child development programs providing language and literacy development
  • Full-day, year-round care programs in metro Atlanta serving low-income families
  • Kindergarten readiness initiatives
  • Increasing access to early childhood education in underserved communities
  • Professionalizing early childhood education as a viable career path for educators
  • Supporting organizational capacity building for child care centers

K-12 Education

  • STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) programs
  • Literacy programs using the science of reading approach
  • 8th grade mathematics initiatives
  • College and career readiness programs
  • In-school academic programs with measurable outcomes
  • After-school and summer academic programs (wraparound services)
  • Partnerships with high-performing organizations serving metro Atlanta students
  • Programs supporting independent schools and large-scale organizations working within public school systems

Higher Education

  • Traditional four-year institutions promoting economic mobility
  • Alternative educational pathways to higher education
  • Programs emphasizing long-term student success and continuous learning
  • Workforce development initiatives

Stronger Atlanta

  • Large-scale initiatives at metropolitan Atlanta institutions
  • Programs positioning Atlanta as a hub of innovation and prosperity
  • Initiatives supporting a dignified quality of life for all Atlantans
  • Community strengthening efforts aligned with Roberto Goizueta's 1994 vision

Priority Populations

  • Students experiencing poverty
  • Hispanic/Latino communities
  • Immigrant and refugee populations

Types of Funding Supported

  • Pilot programs
  • Curriculum development
  • Professional development
  • Capacity building
  • Partnerships and collaboration
  • Innovation initiatives
  • Research and analysis projects
  • Capital projects (for major initiatives)
  • Endowment funds (selective)

What They Don't Fund

  • Annual fund drives
  • Capital campaigns (general)
  • Event sponsorships
  • General operating expenses
  • Grants to individuals
  • Government agencies
  • International organizations
  • Political campaigns
  • Religious entities (for religious purposes)
  • Affordable housing organizations
  • Arts programming (outside Stronger Atlanta initiative)
  • Homeless services
  • Hospitals and healthcare organizations
  • Recreational services

Governance and Leadership

Board of Directors (10 members)

  • Olga Goizueta Rawls – Chair and CEO
  • Javier C. Goizueta – Director
  • Javier Carlos Goizueta – Director
  • Thompson C. Rawls – Director
  • Roberto S. Goizueta – Director
  • Caroline Rawls Strumph – Director
  • Roberto Carlos Goizueta – Director
  • Cristina Goizueta – Director
  • Amelia Rawls Medina – Director
  • Dolores Goizueta Di Iulio – Director

Staff (7 members)

  • Julianna Cagle – President
  • Hannah Jones – VP of Programs
  • Christy Utberg – VP of Finance & Administration
  • Amy McCrory – Senior Program Officer
  • M.J. Thorne – Director of Grants Management
  • Meredith Copley – Program Officer
  • Sarah Hautt – Administrative Assistant

Important Note: The foundation requests that board members not be contacted directly regarding foundation matters. All inquiries should be directed to program staff at [email protected]. Board members and staff do not grant press interviews.

Leadership Philosophy

From Olga Goizueta Rawls (Chair & CEO): "At The Goizueta Foundation, we believe that challenging organizations to think about education in innovative, strategic ways is part of the formula for creating life-changing opportunities for individuals and long-term benefits for the communities in which they live and serve." Rawls has stated the foundation is not interested in funding the status quo, but instead wants to challenge organizations to "think big" and "to take intelligent risks."

From Roberto C. Goizueta (Founder): Roberto Goizueta's philosophy guides the foundation's work: "Educate yourself. Educate each other. Educate the world." He believed that "America's future was in its youth and that the strength of youth depended on the strength of families." Goizueta famously stated: "My story boils down to the uniquely American idea that a young immigrant could come to this country with nothing but a good education and a job as a chemist, and 30 years later have the opportunity to lead one of the world's best-known enterprises."

Application Process & Timeline

Eligibility

Geographic Requirement: Organizations must operate within the 11-county metropolitan Atlanta area: Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, and Rockdale counties.

Organizational Requirements: The foundation partners with established organizations demonstrating:

  • Strong leadership
  • Active and engaged boards of directors
  • Proven financial stability
  • 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status

How to Apply

Rolling Basis Application: The foundation accepts applications on a rolling basis with no fixed deadlines. Organizations may complete the online application at any time through the portal at goizuetafoundation.givingdata.com/portal/campaign/2020onlineapp.

Highly Recommended First Step: The foundation strongly encourages nonprofit organizations that meet eligibility requirements to contact the foundation to schedule an introductory meeting with program staff before submitting a formal application. This reflects their "iterative and conversational grantmaking process" that emphasizes relationship-building.

Required Application Materials:

  • 501(c)(3) IRS Determination Letter
  • Current annual operating budget
  • Most recent audited financial statement
  • Most recent IRS Form 990
  • List of current board members
  • Strategic plan
  • Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation

Application Review Process:

  1. Staff reviews online applications on a rolling basis
  2. If the application warrants further conversation, program staff will contact the organization directly
  3. Selected proposals are developed with staff guidance
  4. Formal proposals are invited to board meetings

Board Presentations: The foundation does not accept requests for direct presentations to the board due to resource constraints.

Decision Timeline

Board Meetings: The Board of Directors reviews invited proposals twice per year, in May and November.

Notification: Organizations are notified of decisions immediately following the May and November board meetings.

Typical Timeline: From initial application submission to final decision typically ranges from 6-12 months, depending on when the application is submitted relative to board meeting schedules.

Success Rates

Success rate statistics are not publicly disclosed by the foundation. In 2023, the foundation made 98 grants totaling $33.7 million.

Reapplication Policy

Organizations that have been declined funding may reapply. The foundation encourages declined applicants to carefully review the Funding Eligibility Guidelines before reapplying. There are no stated waiting periods or restrictions for reapplication.

Grant Renewal: Grants do not receive automatic renewal. Organizations may discuss subsequent funding opportunities with program staff after the closure of a current grant.

Application Success Factors

Strategic Alignment is Critical: The foundation emphasizes that applicants should align with their strategic focus areas, shared values, and strategic priorities to strengthen competitiveness. Generic education programs are less likely to succeed than those addressing specific foundation priorities (early learning, K-12 STEAM/literacy/math, higher education access, or Stronger Atlanta initiatives).

Demonstrate the Foundation's Six Values:

  1. A Love of Learning – Show commitment to continuous learning and academic excellence
  2. Inspirational Leadership – Demonstrate strong leadership that inspires others
  3. Creative Thinking – Present innovative approaches rather than conventional solutions
  4. Courage & Commitment – Exhibit bold vision combined with dedication and accountability
  5. Transparency & Trust – Emphasize honest communication and reliability
  6. Excellence & Integrity – Maintain high standards of preparation, diligence, and ethical conduct

Think Big and Take Intelligent Risks: Chair Olga Goizueta Rawls has explicitly stated the foundation is not interested in funding the status quo. Applications should demonstrate innovative, strategic thinking and willingness to take intelligent risks. The foundation wants to challenge organizations to "think big."

Prioritize Measurable Outcomes: For K-12 education programs particularly, demonstrate meaningful academic outcomes and impact measurement. The foundation seeks organizations with proven track records and data-driven approaches.

Build Relationships First: The foundation's "iterative and conversational grantmaking process" strongly favors organizations that engage with program staff before applying. Schedule an introductory meeting to discuss your proposal concept and ensure alignment with foundation priorities.

Focus on Priority Populations: Applications serving students experiencing poverty, Hispanic/Latino communities, and immigrant/refugee populations receive particular attention given the foundation's commitment to these groups.

Show Organizational Strength: The foundation partners with established organizations. Applications should demonstrate strong leadership, active board governance, and financial stability. New or struggling organizations are less competitive.

Understand the Geographic Focus: Projects must clearly serve the 11-county metro Atlanta area. Organizations should demonstrate deep understanding of Atlanta-specific challenges and opportunities.

Recent Funding Examples Show Scale and Scope:

  • Atlanta Speech School received $7,500,000 to support literacy center growth and establish an endowed fund for staff advancement
  • Cristo Rey Atlanta Jesuit High School received $2,000,000 for their Academic Excellence Initiative
  • Community Guilds received $500,000 for The Full STEAM Ahead Teaching and Learning Program
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta received $1,000,000 to expand their Level Up Program

Partnership Over Transaction: The foundation states: "We aspire to be good partners with grantees – sharing ideas, cultivating open communication, and fostering a sense of community partnership." Applications should demonstrate openness to collaboration and partnership rather than simply seeking funding.

Key Takeaways for Grant Writers

  • Schedule an introductory meeting before applying – The foundation strongly encourages this and it significantly increases your chances of success. This is not optional if you want to be competitive.

  • Think big and be innovative – The foundation explicitly does not fund the status quo. Your proposal should demonstrate bold, strategic thinking and intelligent risk-taking aligned with their mission.

  • Focus on one of four strategic areas – Ensure your program clearly fits within early learning, K-12 education (especially STEAM, literacy, or 8th grade math), higher education, or Stronger Atlanta initiatives.

  • Serve priority populations – Programs serving students in poverty, Hispanic/Latino communities, or immigrant/refugee populations are particularly aligned with foundation priorities.

  • Demonstrate the six shared values – Every aspect of your proposal should reflect love of learning, inspirational leadership, creative thinking, courage and commitment, transparency and trust, and excellence and integrity.

  • Show measurable outcomes and proven track records – The foundation partners with established organizations demonstrating strong results. Include specific data on impact and organizational capacity.

  • Grants are typically three years – Plan for multi-year implementation and sustainability beyond the grant period. Applications should show long-term vision and commitment.

  • Understand the bi-annual decision timeline – With board meetings in May and November, plan your application timing accordingly and expect a 6-12 month decision process.

References

  1. The Goizueta Foundation official website - https://goizuetafoundation.org/ (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  2. The Goizueta Foundation - Apply for Funding - https://www.goizuetafoundation.org/apply-for-funding/ (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  3. The Goizueta Foundation - Frequently Asked Questions - https://goizuetafoundation.org/faq/ (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  4. The Goizueta Foundation - Leadership & Staff - https://goizuetafoundation.org/the-foundation/leadership-staff/ (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  5. The Goizueta Foundation - Mission & Values - https://goizuetafoundation.org/the-foundation/mission-values/ (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  6. The Goizueta Foundation - Education Strategic Focus - https://goizuetafoundation.org/strategic-focus/education/ (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  7. The Goizueta Foundation - Stronger Atlanta - https://goizuetafoundation.org/strategic-focus/stronger-atlanta/ (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  8. The Goizueta Foundation - Grantmaking Strategy - https://goizuetafoundation.org/strategic-focus/grantmaking-strategy/ (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  9. The Goizueta Foundation - Grant History - https://goizuetafoundation.org/grantmaking/grant-history/ (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  10. ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer - Goizueta Foundation Inc - https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/463022974 (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  11. Inside Philanthropy - Goizueta Foundation - https://www.insidephilanthropy.com/find-a-grant-places/georgia-grants/goizueta-foundation (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  12. Emory University News - "The Goizueta Foundation makes $30 million gift to Emory's Goizueta Business School" - https://news.emory.edu/stories/2019/12/goizueta_foundation_gift/index.html (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  13. New Georgia Encyclopedia - "Goizueta Foundation" - https://www.georgiaencyclopedia.org/articles/business-economy/goizueta-foundation/ (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  14. The Goizueta Foundation - Roberto C. Goizueta - https://goizuetafoundation.org/life-legacy/roberto-c-goizueta/ (Accessed December 23, 2025)

  15. SaportaReport - "Roberto Goizueta's legacy lives on in Atlanta through family foundation" (Accessed December 23, 2025)

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