Alex Amouyel on How Newman's Own Foundation Empowers Change for Kids

Newman's Own Foundation is leading the way in philanthropy by combining business with a mission to create real change. In this episode of Untapped Philanthropy, Alex Amouyel, President and CEO, discusses the foundation’s unique model and its dedication to empowering children facing adversity.

Unlike most foundations, Newman's Own Foundation is a non-profit that owns a for-profit company--Newman's Own--which sells food products. 100% of profits and royalties from Newman's Own sales go to support nonprofit causes. Alex describes this structure as both empowering and challenging, allowing the foundation to focus entirely on impact without relying on traditional endowments. This business model underscores the foundation’s mission, with all grants funded directly by consumer purchases rather than individual donors.
Alex explains that one of the foundation’s main goals is to give every child an equal opportunity to thrive, regardless of background. Reflecting on her path to Newman's Own Foundation, Alex says:

My personal mission is really twofold. One is working on the quality of opportunity so that everybody, no matter their background, has the chance to realize their full potential. And two, I’m interested in innovative structures and financing solutions that can truly change systems.

Innovating for Impact

Under Alex’s leadership, the foundation has introduced initiatives designed to make its grantmaking more collaborative and community-centered. This year, Newman's Own launched its inaugural Food Justice for Kids Prize, an open call to support organizations focused on addressing food justice for children. The foundation awarded $600K across 12 organizations (from nearly 500 applicants), with the potential for an additional $600K in 2025 (for a total of $1.2M).

This community-centered approach allows Newman's Own Foundation to engage with a wider range of organizations, especially those that may not traditionally have access to large grants, supporting local leaders and groups in addressing systemic issues.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for Expanding Impact

As Alex looks toward the future, her focus remains on empowering grantee partners through transparency, openness, and community involvement. Her goals include not only providing funds but also fostering lasting change in policy, community development, and health habits among children nationwide.

Through Newman's Own Foundation, Alex Amouyel is redefining philanthropy by prioritizing impact over profit and focusing on sustainable, community-led solutions. Her conversation on Untapped Philanthropy offers an inspiring look at how philanthropy can transform lives and empower future generations.

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Download the transcript here.