
Arnold Ventures
We are a philanthropy dedicated to tackling some of the most pressing problems in the United States.

Arnold Ventures’ core objective is to maximize opportunity and minimize injustice.
Arnold Ventures, founded by Laura and John Arnold, is a philanthropy dedicated to tackling some of the most pressing problems in the United States. We invest in sustainable change, building it from the ground up based on research, deep thinking, and a strong foundation of evidence. We drive public conversation, craft policy, and inspire action through education and advocacy.
We are a team of more than 100 subject-matter experts headquartered in Houston with offices in New York and Washington, D.C. We work in four key issue areas: Criminal Justice, Education, Health, and Public Finance. Our work is guided by Evidence-Based Policy, Research, and Advocacy.
Mission
Our core mission is to invest in evidence-based solutions that maximize opportunity and minimize injustice.
Strategy
We focus on correcting system failures through evidence-based solutions. Viewing philanthropy as an engine of innovation, we identify problems, rigorously research them, and search for answers. Once an idea is tested, validated, and proven efficacious, we fund policy development and technical assistance to create change that outlasts our funding.
Arnold Ventures manages the giving for the various Arnold entities, including the Laura and John Arnold Foundation, Action Now Initiative, and the Arnolds’ donor-advised fund.
Meet the Founders: Laura and John Arnold
Laura and John established the Laura and John Arnold Foundation in 2010. They believe philanthropy should be transformational and should seek through innovation to solve persistent problems in society. As co-founders, Laura and John actively engage in the organization’s overall direction and daily execution. Laura is an attorney and a former oil company executive. John is an investor. They have three children and reside in Houston, Texas.