Jack and Laura Dangermond

Our Giving Pledge Commitment

In 1969, Laura and I created Esri, with the idea of using computer mapping and spatial analysis to address a broad range of geographic problem solving. Our vision was to improve the world by creating and providing technology that would help organizations better understand our environment and make better decisions. Today our business has become the leader in mapping and Geographic Information System software. Our tools are used by hundreds of thousands of organizations that apply mapping and geographic thinking to almost every field of human activity.

Our sense is this is making an enormous difference in issues ranging from climate change and natural resource management, to urban and regional planning, transportation, security and human health.

We have chosen to keep our organization private and use its resources to continue evolving this technology and making a difference.

Our plan is to keep working for as long as we are able to do so and create a stable and sustainable organization that continues into the future.

We believe that ensuring this organization continues its work is the best way to use our resources.

Our personal philanthropy has involved three main areas:

1. Providing software, training and technical assistance to support conservation, humanitarian activities, and STEM education; particularly geography education (K-12 and Higher Ed.)
2. Acquisition of lands for open space conservation and parks
3. Contributions to our local community

We have committed on our departure, to contribute the majority of our personal wealth to these same activities.

Sincerely,