Finances

The Buffett Institute was born of a remarkable public-private partnership on behalf of young children and families. With a founding endowment gift from philanthropist Susie Buffett, and the University of Nebraska and the University of Nebraska Foundation matching her gift, our endowment income supports our core operations and represents an unrivaled commitment to our goals and the field.

Other resources provide essential support for the Institute’s growing body of work. Foundations and private donors contribute generously to all aspects of the Institute’s activity. State, local, and federal contracts continue to make up an increasing percentage of our income, all of which are directed by Institute investigators, often in collaboration with university partners and other key stakeholders.

In all, the Institute has committed itself to diversifying its funding base. As depicted in Figure 17, external sources of funding now constitute 47% of the Institute’s $12 million annual budget. Over the course of the Institute’s first 10 years, grants and contracts total more than $30.6 million, foundation funds account for $6.5 million, and private gifts total more than $114,000 (see Table 5).

The Institute strives to be accountable for every dollar that is spent and to be responsible stewards of all its resources. We recognize the responsibility that accompanies the financial support we have received and remain deeply grateful for the trust that is placed in us to work on behalf of young children and families.

Grants and Contracts - Local, State, and Federal Sources

Foundation Funds