Frequently Asked Questions

  • When was the Foundation created?

    The Turner Foundation, Inc.(TFI), was founded by media mogul, conservationist and philanthropist R.E. (Ted) Turner in 1990 and awarded its first grant in 1991.

  • Who serves on the Turner Foundation Board of Directors?

    TFI is a family foundation governed by a Board of Directors, comprised of  Ted Turner and his five children: Laura Turner Seydel, Teddy Turner, Rhett Turner, Beau Turner, and Jennie Turner Garlington. Part of the inspiration behind the establishment of the Turner Foundation is Ted's desire to involve his family and work with them to create a better world. 

    In 2017, the foundation also instituted a Junior Board of Directors, consisting of Mr. Turner's grandchildren, or "third generation." The Junior Board focuses its efforts on youth engagement, environmental stewardship through experiential learning and fostering a deeper connection between the Turner Foundation and Turner properties to secure the future of the foundation for future generations.

  • How much does the Foundation award each year?

    Approximately $6 million in grants per year.

  • How much has the Turner Foundation granted to date?

    TFI has awarded over $400 million grants since inception.

  • What are the Foundation's initiatives?

    The Foundation supports efforts for conserving land to protect and restore wildlife diversity; catalyzing the transition to a clean energy future; and protecting and restoring water resources for people and nature. 

  • Why doesn't the Foundation accept proposals?

    We are an invitation-only foundation. We don't have the resources to review unsolicited materials.

  • How does the Foundation decide which grants to fund?

    Our board and staff, on an annual basis, identify grantmaking initiatives in conjunction with established programmatic and geographic priorities.