The Ford Foundation's Technology and Society initiative examines the role of digital advancements, including artificial intelligence, in addressing social justice and inequality. This focus offers relevant context for AI professionals interested in the ethical and societal implications of technology.
Founded in 1936, the foundation is one of the world's largest private philanthropies, with an endowment of $16 billion. It has distributed over $16 billion in grants and loans globally to support initiatives that advance social justice, operating from 11 offices worldwide.
Programs like the BUILD initiative, a $2 billion effort to strengthen institutions addressing inequality, reflect its approach. The foundation is guided by principles of disrupting inequality, upholding human dignity, and promoting democratic values and international cooperation.
