Atlanta, GA, October 13, 2025
News Summary
The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has pledged a $50 million donation to support Atlanta’s historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). This funding aims to provide financial assistance through gap scholarships for nearly 10,000 students who are nearing graduation. Beneficiary institutions include Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, and Spelman College. This 10-year commitment stands as the foundation’s largest single donation to HBCUs in Georgia, emphasizing the importance of education and community support.
Atlanta HBCUs to Benefit from $50 Million Donation
The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has pledged a significant $50 million donation to enhance financial support for students at Atlanta’s historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). This substantial investment is designed to close financial aid gaps that can hinder students from completing their degrees.
The funding will provide support for nearly 10,000 students through “gap scholarships,” which are aimed at those nearing graduation, maintaining good academic standing, and having exhausted all other sources of financial assistance. The targeted institutions benefiting from this financial boost include Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, and Spelman College.
Foundation’s Commitment and Impact
The commitment of the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation extends over a period of 10 years. This announcement comes in light of a recent plan by the Trump administration to redirect nearly $500 million in federal funding towards HBCUs and tribal colleges, which has implications for programs at colleges with large enrollments of Hispanic and other minority students aimed at diversity.
Arthur Blank, co-founder of The Home Depot and owner of both the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United soccer teams, has a net worth exceeding $11 billion according to Forbes. He has made a commitment to donate at least half of his wealth by signing the Giving Pledge. The foundation has previously donated over $1.5 billion across various sectors including health, education, and cultural institutions. The $50 million contribution marks the foundation’s largest single donation to HBCUs in Georgia.
Previous Contributions
Prior substantial donations from the foundation include $10 million to Spelman College for an innovation lab and $6 million dedicated to refurbishing athletic fields at several HBCUs. In total, the HBCUs located in Atlanta contribute approximately $1 billion in annual economic impact to the local region.
Importance of HBCUs
HBCUs are recognized for their effectiveness in moving students from the lowest 40% of household income to the top 60% income bracket. The foundation aims to assist students in earning their degrees, launching successful careers, and eventually becoming alumni who contribute back to their communities. Leaders from the institutions involved have praised this commitment to addressing critical financial needs, emphasizing that this investment will empower students to prioritize their academic success without the burden of financial challenges.
FAQ
What is the amount of donation pledged by the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation for Atlanta HBCUs?
The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation announced a $50 million donation to Atlanta’s historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
What are “gap scholarships” in relation to this donation?
The funding will support nearly 10,000 students with “gap scholarships” for those approaching graduation in good academic standing and have exhausted all other sources of financial support.
Which institutions are targeted for the gap scholarships?
The targeted institutions are Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, and Spelman College.
How long will the foundation’s commitment last?
The foundation’s commitment is set for 10 years.
How much has the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation donated in total?
The Arthur Blank Family Foundation has donated over $1.5 billion across various sectors, including health, education, and cultural institutions.
Key Features of the $50 Million Donation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Donation Amount | $50 million |
| Type of Support | Gap scholarships for nearly 10,000 students |
| Benefitting Institutions | Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, Spelman College |
| Fund Duration | 10 years |
| Total Donations by Foundation | Over $1.5 billion |
| Economic Impact of HBCUs | Approx. $1 billion annually to the Atlanta region |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Revitalization of Atlanta’s West End Mall Begins
Additional Resources
- AP News: $50 Million Donation to Atlanta HBCUs
- Black Enterprise: HBCUs Receive Donations
- Times of India: Blank Foundation Pledges $50 Million
- Google Search: HBCUs
- Wikipedia: Historically Black Colleges and Universities
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The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
