The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has announced a groundbreaking $50 million commitment over the next decade to provide gap scholarships for nearly 10,000 undergraduates at Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, and Spelman College in Atlanta.

This initiative aims to support students facing financial barriers despite maintaining good academic standing, addressing funding disparities at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

The funds will target students who demonstrate academic excellence but lack the resources to fully cover educational costs.

This effort builds on the foundation’s previous support for HBCUs and aligns with broader initiatives to promote equity in Black higher education.

The pledge underscores a significant step toward ensuring access to quality education for underrepresented communities.

Helping the Community: The Blank Effect

Blank, co-founder of The Home Depot and a prominent philanthropist, has channeled much of his wealth—estimated at over $11 billion—into community-focused initiatives through the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, established in 1995. The foundation has granted more than $1.5 billion to charitable causes, primarily in Georgia and Montana, with a focus on creating sustainable, inclusive communities.

As a signatory to The Giving Pledge, Blank has committed to donating at least half his fortune to philanthropy. Below are some key ways he has supported communities:

•  Education and Youth Development: Blank’s foundation invests heavily in early childhood education, student success programs, and reforms to help underserved youth reach their potential.

A recent example is the $50 million pledge announced on October 13, 2025, to provide gap scholarships for nearly 10,000 undergraduates at Atlanta’s historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, and Spelman College.

This addresses financial barriers for academically strong students and builds on prior support for HBCUs. Additionally, the foundation has granted $3 million to Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta for youth programs.

•  Healthcare and Wellness: In 2024, Blank donated $200 million to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, leading to the creation of the Arthur M. Blank Hospital, which opened on September 27, 2024—his 82nd birthday. This facility enhances pediatric care in the region. The foundation also supports initiatives combating childhood obesity in Georgia and broader health equity efforts.

•  Parks, Greenspace, and Environmental Conservation: Blank has funded the development of the Atlanta BeltLine, a transformative 22-mile network of paths, parks, and transit that connects neighborhoods and promotes economic mobility. In Montana, where he owns ranches, the foundation has committed $28 million to grassland conservation and hospitality training programs that create job pathways for young people. Recent grants include $9.25 million to the Energy Foundation for clean energy advocacy.

•  Arts and Cultural Access: The foundation ensures equitable access to the arts for children and families, regardless of economic status, through grants to museums, cultural institutions, and programs like the Molly Blank Fund, which supports PJ Library (providing free books to Jewish children). It has also contributed to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

•  Community Redevelopment and Social Justice: Efforts include revitalizing Atlanta’s historic Westside neighborhood and supporting democracy-building organizations. Grants have gone to groups like the New Georgia Project ($800,000), Black Voters Matter ($500,000), and Rock the Vote ($650,000) to promote civic engagement and equity. The foundation also aids humanitarian responses, such as $1 million to CARE USA’s emergency fund and $250,000 to World Central Kitchen.

•  Sports and Economic Impact: Through his ownership of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, Blank integrates philanthropy into sports, with team foundations supporting military veterans, local nonprofits, and community events. Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which he spearheaded, serves as a hub for concerts and gatherings that boost local economies.

Final Word

Blank’s approach emphasizes “connected philanthropy,” partnering with grantees for long-term impact across advocacy, governance, environment, and health.

His businesses, including PGA TOUR Superstore and ranches, each have dedicated giving arms that amplify these efforts.

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