Our Vision

We envision an education system that keeps its promise to all students.
That’s why we invest in the ideas and energy of education leaders and entrepreneurs who are advancing innovative solutions that expand the definition of what works. There’s a better way to advance education through philanthropy — one that is more equitable, more collaborative, and more courageous–and we’re proving it every day.

“My partnership with NewSchools feels different than other funders. There's a sense of care, support, and acknowledgment of how the landscape has shifted that I truly appreciate.”

"Looking ahead 25 years from now, I hope students have joy in their lives. I hope that, whatever they're doing, they find a sense of fulfillment and meaning. This is what I’m working toward with NewSchools’ support.”

"One thing I've learned in community organizing is that we have inherent power. I had a perspective of philanthropy as ‘us and them.’ NewSchools is shifting that narrative."

“NewSchools gave me a platform for my leadership. Young people deserve to co-create an educational experience that works for every student. We’re young and capable, and there is value in both.”

Our Approach

NewSchools is a venture philanthropy that builds a better education system by connecting people, resources, and ideas. We bridge the gap between those with capital and those with the courage to put that capital to work on the frontlines of education.

Invest
in promising leaders and ideas

We guide capital to the right places and the right people in ways that align with our values and evidence-informed perspective.

Amplify
solutions and success stories

We challenge limiting beliefs about whose expertise and perspective matters. Our research and insights illuminate what’s working in education.

Build
broader and better coalitions

We use our unique position to bring together allies and unlikely partners who are committed to delivering better results for all students.

Venture Leaders Spotlight

Ana Fernanda Flores-Bolívar

Principal, La Promesa, Aldine ISD, Houston

Ruben Morris

CEO, Alabama Aerospace & Aviation High School

Monique Uzelac

Director, Washtenaw Alliance for Virtual Education

Our Investment Model

We are the first venture philanthropy focused on K-12 education. As a nonprofit and intermediary funder, we raise charitable donations and then grant those funds to early-stage entrepreneurs who are reimagining public education. While we have a rigorous investment process, we seek educational and social returns, not financial ones.

Our Investment Process

Step 1: We put out an open call to innovators.

Our funding opportunities are open to anyone with a bold, innovative idea. We publicize our application broadly, with the goal of having diverse applicants representing a range of backgrounds, geographies, and solutions.

Step 2: We screen applications in, not out.

We review submissions to identify the most promising candidates for further diligence. Our initial screen evaluates how well the idea and the team align with our investment strategy and our focus on innovation and equity.

Step 3: We take a deeper look.

During our diligence process, we evaluate teams against our full investment criteria. We conduct interviews, check references, and follow-up on open questions.

Step 4: We fund and support innovators.

We select a portfolio of promising leaders and ideas. In addition to funding, our ventures receive management assistance and participate in communities of practice to strengthen their organizations and deepen their impact.

Step 5: We keep learning and improving.

We engage with applicants and funded ventures to understand and learn from their experiences. This helps us improve our approach and better meet the needs of innovators with the courage to share their ideas.

Our Funding Opportunities

Through our annual funding opportunity, we invest in early-stage organizations and new initiatives aligned to our investment areas.

The 2023 funding opportunity for our Learning Solutions, Diverse Leaders, Racial Equity, and EDge investment areas is now closed and will re-open in early 2024. Applicants who applied in 2023 can expect to hear an update on their status by June and a final decision by September.

The Innovative Public Schools funding opportunity is also closed and will open in November 2023 for teams that plan to launch a school in fall 2025.

To stay updated on future funding opportunities, join our email list.

Our Approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

NewSchools was founded on the idea that passionate entrepreneurs with powerful ideas could reimagine K-12 education and give all students a better opportunity to succeed — particularly those from underserved communities. We understand the privileged role we play in education as a funder and as an organization with access and influence.

We leverage our unique position by acting on our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) every day — whether it’s in our internal practices and decisions or how we partner to advance the fields of education and philanthropy.