Berkeley Foundation

Berkeley Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was founded with a $100 million endowment from Apple's Racial Equity and Justice Initiative. While it is a component of Apple's broader REJI commitment and its creation was announced by the company, it operates as a separate legal entity with its own board and independent fiduciary control. Its Executive Director, James Higa, was previously a senior director at Apple but does not report to Apple's corporate management in this role.

The foundation uses a hybrid model that includes traditional grantmaking to non-profit organizations and program-related equity investments in venture funds and startups. On the venture side, it has committed to funds like Harlem Capital and Collab Capital, which are led by underrepresented fund managers. This blended approach allows for both immediate charitable impact through grants and long-term capacity building by strengthening the ecosystem of diverse-led investment firms.

Executive Director James Higa leads the foundation's strategy and decisions. A Silicon Valley veteran who spent over two decades at Apple and served as an informal chief of staff to Steve Jobs, Higa brings a deep network in both technology and social impact circles. He works alongside an advisory board, though the foundation has not publicly disclosed its full investment committee or detailed decision-making hierarchy.

Yes, Berkeley Foundation is structured as a public charity that can solicit and accept donations from external sources, not just from Apple. This means its asset base could grow beyond Apple's initial funding if other corporations, individuals, or foundations choose to contribute. However, as of 2024, Apple's initial $100 million commitment remains its primary known funding source.

The foundation was launched with an initial focus on the Bay Area, particularly Oakland and the broader East Bay community where it is headquartered, before expanding nationwide. Its early grantees, such as the Oakland REACH and Kingmakers of Oakland, reflect a hyper-local grounding. Its venture fund investments, conversely, support firms like New York-based Harlem Capital, indicating a national aperture for its equity portfolio while maintaining a local lens for its direct community grants.