Rockefeller Foundation, philanthropic organization endowed by John D. Rockefeller and chartered in 1913 “to promote the well-being of mankind throughout the world.”

One of the oldest foundations in the United States, the Rockefeller Foundation concentrates on international science-based development, giving special attention to the global environment, the developing world, and the agricultural, health, and population sciences; the arts and humanities; and equal opportunity. Other projects support school reform in the United States, international security, international philanthropy, and other special interests. The Ballagio Study and Conference Center, located in northern Italy, provides facilities for international conferences and residencies for artists, scholars, policymakers, and other professionals.

The Rockefeller Foundation is administered by a president who is chosen by a staff drawn from scholarly, scientific, and professional disciplines. An independent board of trustees meets four times each year to set program guidelines and financial policy.

Reviewed by: Rockefeller Foundation