Our Approach

Ensuring better, longer lives for the greatest number of people

Bloomberg Philanthropies’ unique approach to saving and improving lives around the world is grounded in Mike Bloomberg’s experience as founder of a global technology and media company and as three-term mayor of one of the world’s largest cities.

Across Bloomberg Philanthropies’ five focus areas — public health, the environment, education, government innovation, and the arts — this approach guides initiatives that tackle a wide range of issues to save and improve lives around the world.

Look For Unmet Needs

Bloomberg Philanthropies tackles challenges that are either overlooked or underfunded, bringing a unique approach and perspective grounded in Mike Bloomberg’s experience in the public and private sectors.

Identify and Engage Strong Partners

The challenges facing the U.S. and the world have become increasingly complex — no organization can tackle them alone. Bloomberg Philanthropies convenes and engages strong partners from across fields and industries who can break down complicated issues, innovate, and share solutions that work.

Remain Flexible

Mike Bloomberg has always valued flexibility in business and government to respond to new challenges and opportunities as they arise. Bloomberg Philanthropies follows the same approach.

Rely on Data

Bloomberg L.P. revolutionized the world of finance by making reliable market data available at the touch of a button. The Bloomberg Administration brought the same data-driven approach to New York’s City Hall, becoming a leader in providing open data and promoting public-sector accountability.

Bloomberg Philanthropies continues that legacy, following the data to identify problems, target new solutions, and measure progress.

Focus on Cities to Drive Progress

Bloomberg Philanthropies works closely with city leaders to support their efforts to tackle the toughest challenges they face. That approach stems from Mike Bloomberg’s experience as mayor of New York, where he saw cities’ potential to solve problems and improve residents’ lives.

Lead from the Front and Use Advocacy and Lobbying

Mike Bloomberg believes that philanthropy has an important role to play in spurring progress on tough challenges — particularly issues that government has been unwilling or unable to address, but that cannot be ignored. That means meeting controversy head on and offering support to people and organizations who are fighting for change. Often that can mean using advocacy and rallying grassroots support.

Advocacy and political activities are not in any part supported by The Bloomberg Family Foundation.