Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s philanthropic efforts don’t get quite as much attention as the sweeping global health efforts of Bill Gates. And part of the reason for that is that Allen pumps a lot of his money into the low-profile projects in the local community.
The hyperlocal focus was on full display today as The Paul G. Allen Family Foundation announced $6.6 million in grants to a wide range of causes in the Pacific Northwest.
Among the 58 projects:
–$400,000 for the creation of a new school in the Lake Washington School District in Seattle focused on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math education.
–A $500,000 grant to Seattle’s Museum of History and Industry to help renovate the historic Naval Reserve Armory in South Lake Union.
–$65,000 to support the Sandro Cinto installation at the Seattle Art Museum’s Sculpture Garden.
Allen’s giving in the most recent cycle also had a focus on Native American causes, including a $45,000 grant for a Native American-led radio program in Anchorage and $240,000 to support the Indian Country Initiative for Native American entrepreneurs in Ilwaco, Washington.
Forbes ranks Allen — who also owns the Seattle Seahawks and Portland Trailblazers — as the 23rd richest American with a net worth of $13.8 billion.
Here’s a look at all of the projects that Allen’s foundation bankrolled.
