On March 27, 2025, world leaders in nutrition gathered in Paris for the Nutrition for Growth (N4G) Summit, focusing on strategies to improve access to essential nutrition for mothers and children. Amid these critical discussions, the Bezos family announced a groundbreaking pledge—up to $500 million—to support UNICEF’s Child Nutrition Fund (CNF), an initiative dedicated to tackling child and maternal undernutrition worldwide.
Malnutrition remains a dire global challenge, contributing to nearly half of all deaths among children under five. According to the World Bank, an additional $13 billion annually over the next decade (2025-2034) is required to scale up nutrition programs effectively. Today, an estimated 148 million children suffer from stunting, while 45 million endure wasting—a severe form of malnutrition where children are dangerously underweight for their height.
Established in 2023, UNICEF’s CNF aims to raise $2 billion by 2030 to bridge critical nutrition gaps. Partnering with the Gates Foundation, the UK government, the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), and other stakeholders, this fund supports evidence-based interventions that combat wasting, stunting, and anemia. The goal? To reach 320 million children and mothers annually with life-changing nutrition programs.
Recognizing the significance of early childhood nutrition—particularly during the first 1,000 days of life, a crucial period for brain development—the Bezos family stepped forward with a transformative funding challenge. Mike Bezos emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating:
“The need is immense, and no single entity can solve this alone. We’re inviting others to step up. Every dollar donated to the CNF will be matched—up to $500 million.”
This pledge, announced at the N4G Summit, introduces a match-funding model designed to encourage additional contributions from individuals, governments, and philanthropists. By doubling every dollar raised, the initiative aims to maximize impact, ensuring that essential nutrition programs reach the most vulnerable populations.
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell praised the Bezos family's generosity, calling it “a powerful rallying call to address life-threatening undernutrition.” With millions of lives at stake, the global community is urged to contribute and help close the funding gap.
Every donation made now is eligible for the Bezos family’s matching challenge—offering an unprecedented opportunity to make a tangible difference. Join the movement and help ensure every child and mother has the chance to thrive.