Dells Donate $6.25B for Trump Accounts

Historic $6.25 Billion Pledge Funds Future Generations

Michael and Susan Dell have announced a groundbreaking $6.25 billion donation to fund "Trump Accounts" for millions of American children, marking one of the largest private investments in children's history. The pledge aims to create a financial headstart for the nation's youth by establishing investment accounts designed to grow through compound interest over decades.

"We feel super excited to be able to make a difference in millions of children’s futures and create opportunity, hope and prosperity for them," said Michael Dell, founder of Dell Technologies and the world's 11th richest individual, during a recent announcement at the White House. This donation more than doubles the couple's previous philanthropic contributions, which totaled $2.9 billion through their foundation.

Understanding Trump Accounts

Trump Accounts are tax-deferred investment accounts created under President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." Eligible children—those born between January 2025 and December 2028—will receive an automatic $1,000 deposit from the Treasury Department. The Dell donation specifically targets children born before 2025 who are currently aged 10 and under, providing an additional $250 per child to establish accounts.

Accounts will be locked until the child turns 18, at which point they transform into traditional IRAs. Funds can be used for education, home down payments, or entrepreneurial ventures. Parents and employers can contribute up to $5,000 annually ($2,500 from employers), with investments tracking broad market indices like the S&P 500.

Targeted Impact and Philanthropic Vision

The Dells' $6.25 billion commitment will reach approximately 25 million children across 75% of U.S. zip codes, with special focus on areas where median household income falls below $150,000. "Investing in children and their future is really investing in all of our futures," Susan Dell emphasized. "Children are the future. So we couldn't be more excited about this program."

The initiative stems from a conversation between Michael Dell and Brad Gerstner, CEO of Altimeter Capital and founder of the nonprofit Invest America, which advocates for the accounts. "We believe that the smartest investment we can make is the one that we make in children," Dell stated, noting that private philanthropists are expected to announce additional significant gifts.

Operational Details and Timeline

Sign-ups for Trump Accounts will open on July 4, 2026. Parents can establish accounts online, with funds distributed by the Treasury Department. While the program simplifies access to early investing, critics note it adds complexity to existing savings vehicles like 529 plans. The Tax Foundation has urged policymakers to streamline the system with universal savings accounts.

"What we really hope is that children will see that there's a future worth saving for," Susan Dell concluded. "If every child sees that there is a future worth saving for, then we'll have been part of helping build that hope and opportunity and prosperity for generations to come."