Investment Strategy
The Bush Foundation, headquartered in Saint Paul, Minnesota, manages approximately $1.0 billion in total assets as of December 31, 2023. Established in 1953 by Archibald Granville Bush, a longtime 3M Company executive, the foundation supports community innovation, education, and Native nation building across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and the 23 Native nations within this geography. Annual grantmaking totals approximately $50 million.
The foundation’s investment philosophy emphasizes long-term capital preservation and growth through a diversified portfolio. Approximately 28% of assets are allocated to alternative investments, including private equity, real estate, and hedge funds. The remaining portfolio is invested in public equities, fixed income, and other liquid strategies.
The Bush Foundation integrates impact considerations into its investment process where appropriate, reflecting the foundation’s commitment to community development and equitable economic opportunity.
How to Approach
Fund managers seeking to work with the Bush Foundation should understand the foundation’s regional focus and commitment to inclusive economic development. The team evaluates new managers based on strategy quality, team depth, and track record.
The foundation’s Saint Paul location provides connections to the Upper Midwest investment community. Referrals from existing GP relationships and consultant networks are the primary approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large is the Bush Foundation endowment?
The Bush Foundation manages approximately $1.0 billion in total assets as of December 31, 2023. Established in 1953 by Archibald Granville Bush, a 3M Company executive, the foundation supports community innovation, education, and Native nation building across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and the 23 Native nations within this geography. Annual grantmaking totals approximately $50 million.
What is the Bush Foundation's investment approach?
The Bush Foundation allocates approximately 28% of its endowment to alternative investments, including private equity, real estate, and hedge funds. The foundation follows a diversified investment approach designed to sustain grantmaking in perpetuity. The investment team integrates impact considerations into portfolio construction where appropriate.
How can fund managers engage with the Bush Foundation?
Fund managers seeking to work with the Bush Foundation should understand the foundation's regional focus and commitment to community-oriented investing. The investment team evaluates managers based on strategy quality, team stability, track record, and alignment of interests. Introductions through existing GP relationships and consultant networks are the primary approach.
