The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation is one of the world’s leading philanthropic institutions, known for supporting creative people and effective organisations. Headquartered in Chicago, the Foundation has a presence in nearly 50 countries, including India and Nigeria, shaping long-term solutions that address some of the most urgent global challenges.
In India, the Foundation’s journey has evolved over the decades, moving from deep engagement in population and reproductive health to a present-day focus on climate and technology in the public interest. Since 2016, its central priority has been climate solutions—supporting initiatives that push for sustainable, scalable answers to the pressing issue of climate change. Rather than focusing only on specialist climate organisations, MacArthur deliberately invests in capacity-building for a wide range of groups—some working with workers’ collectives, others with smallholder farmers or civil society networks. The idea is to strengthen those at the frontline of change and enable them to partner with government institutions, academia, and other actors to accelerate climate action.
Alongside climate solutions, the Foundation has made targeted grants in the field of technology and society. This work is about strengthening the public’s ability to engage with complex questions of internet governance, data, and digital rights in a way that centres justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion. These efforts aim to help civil society translate rapid technology developments into language and insights that policymakers and communities can use.
Before its climate focus, MacArthur had a long-standing programmatic legacy in India around maternal and reproductive health, as well as secondary education for girls. These investments nurtured a diverse ecosystem of organisations which continue to make important contributions today, even though the Foundation phased out this programme in 2020.
Meet the team
MacArthur Foundation, on LinkedIn
Yamini Mishra, Country Director
Jarnail Singh, Coordinator, India Office
From its office at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi, MacArthur continues to serve as a convenor, supporter, and amplifier of voices working towards a sustainable and equitable future. Its approach is characterised by trust in local actors, long-term collaboration, and a recognition that the most meaningful change often comes from strengthening existing systems and communities.
By combining its global perspective with strong local partnerships, the MacArthur Foundation has carved out a thoughtful role in India’s development landscape—walking alongside changemakers to address climate, technology, and social justice in ways that resonate far beyond national borders.
