The wealthy people pledging to fund Trump accounts

Donors Pledge Contributions to Trump Accounts Program for Children

A federal program launched on July 4 established Trump Accounts, a new type of investment savings account available to children. Parents may contribute up to $5,000 annually per child, and employers may contribute up to $2,500 per year. Children born between 2025 and 2028 receive a one-time $1,000 contribution from the federal government. Several individuals have announced separate philanthropic contributions to the accounts, with some limiting their donations to children in specific states. Withdrawals are restricted until the child reaches age 18 and may be used for purposes such as education or a home purchase.

The program was announced with a ceremonial event on July 7 in which President Donald Trump participated remotely. Several donors have been identified through public statements and Treasury Department information.

Michael Dell, chief executive of Dell Technologies, and his wife Susan Dell pledged a total of $6.25 billion. The contribution provides $250 to each of 25 million children who are age 10 or younger, reside in ZIP codes with median household income of $150,000 or less, and were born before January 1, 2025. Michael Dell stated in a December video that the effort aims to make opportunity available to every child. President Trump referenced the Dells during the July 7 event and noted their company’s products. Bloomberg estimated Michael Dell’s net worth at $210 billion as of July 5.

Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates, and his wife Barbara Dalio are directing contributions to children in Connecticut. They plan to provide $250 to the accounts of approximately 300,000 children under age 10 living in ZIP codes with median household income below $150,000. Ray Dalio stated in December that the initiative supports equal opportunity and referenced his own early exposure to financial markets.

Brad Gerstner, chief executive of Altimeter Capital and founder of the Invest America Foundation, is directing contributions to children in Indiana. The plan provides $250 to accounts of all children under age 5 in the state, with total contributions estimated by a spokesperson in the tens of millions of dollars. Gerstner has been credited with originating the concept for the accounts and stated in December that he assisted in coordinating the Dells’ contribution.

Harold Hamm, founder and chairman of Continental Resources, has indicated plans to direct contributions to children in Oklahoma, according to the Treasury Department. Specific amounts and eligibility details have not been released. Hamm contributed to President Trump’s 2024 campaign.

Nicki Minaj has stated that she will make contributions directed toward her fans. The New York Post reported in January an estimated range of $150,000 to $300,000, though the figure remained subject to change. Minaj referenced the program during an appearance on The Katie Miller Podcast after viewing remarks by President Trump and Michael Dell.

The listed contributions operate alongside the federal seed funding and annual limits set by statute. Eligibility for each donor’s pledges follows the criteria announced by the respective individual or foundation.