Ashoka is getting a financial boost today with a $3 million grant from the Brin Wojcicki Foundation. The money will be used to expand the nonprofit’s work in developing “changemaking” skills among elementary school students.
Known for its work in searching for and supporting social entrepreneurs since 1980, Ashoka typically receives endowment from business entrepreneurs, individuals, and foundations from around the world. Today’s grant announcement will further build on the Brin Wojcicki Foundation’s six-year support of Ashoka.
The Brin Wojcicki Foundation was created by Google co-founder Sergey Brin and Anne Wojcicki, founder and CEO of 23andMe, a personal genomic and biotechnology company. Just months earlier, it was reported that the couple has been living apart, but is not yet legally separated. Despite their split, a spokesman said that they would continue to work together on their numerous joint efforts.
Wojcicki is said to be a supporter of Ashoka since a visit to India in 2004 where she experienced firsthand the passion, commitment and impact of the fellows working in Hyderabad.
“Being involved with Ashoka has set a high bar for the rest of philanthropy that we get involved with because I can see that these are the people who are driving true change. I want to go with the people who are passionate,” said Wojcicki.