Bloomberg Philanthropies Unveils Web Site and Priorities

Just a few years ago, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg kept his philanthropy under wraps—or tried to, anyway.

But that has changed. The billionaire has increasingly spoken out on causes to which he gives money, and today his Bloomberg Philanthropies unveiled its first Web site to provide viewers with detailed information about what it supports.

The site outlines the mayor’s strategy on five main programs: the arts, education, the environment, government innovation, and public health. On the environment, for example, the site says that Bloomberg Philanthropies is “driving strong, measurable, and local action on climate change.”

A letter from Mr. Bloomberg and an annual report on the foundation’s activities offer insights into Mr. Bloomberg’s approach as a donor. Data and measuring results are key: The tagline, “Results that can be measured. Change that can be felt,” appears on the Web site’s home page.

He also stresses his interest in financing advocacy. “Writing checks isn’t enough to achieve lasting and necessary change,” he says. “Often that requires empowering individuals and organizations to advocate for themselves.”

But the site also contains some bad news for would-be grant seekers. The philanthropy doesn’t accept unsolicited proposals, according to its grants policy. That said, Bloomberg Philanthropies says that it is “always open to new ideas from new sources” and includes a way for people to reach the foundation.