Phil Knight’s $2 Bn Gift Boosts OHSU Cancer Institute

Industry Insights from Next Move Strategy Consulting

In a defining moment for medical research and patient care, Nike co-founder Phil Knight has pledged $2 billion to the Oregon Health and Science University’s Knight Cancer Institute. According to the Knight Foundation, this landmark contribution represents the single largest donation ever made to a U.S. university, college, or health institution, setting the stage for a transformative era in cancer therapeutics.

A Breakthrough in the Fight Against Cancer

The Knight Foundation announced that the donation will be directed toward fundamentally reshaping cancer research, treatment, and patient outcomes. At the core of this initiative is a strategic partnership with Dr. Brian Druker, a pioneering figure in cancer research.
This collaboration builds on a history of ambitious goals: a decade ago, Druker and OHSU launched a campaign to raise $500 million for cancer research, with the Knights matching the effort dollar-for-dollar. Today’s announcement propels that vision to an unprecedented scale.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to invest in the next stage of the Druker-led revolutionary vision of cancer research, diagnosis, treatment, care, and someday, eradication,” Phil and Penny Knight said in a joint statement. “We couldn’t be more excited about the transformational potential of this work for humanity.”

Key Impact Areas briefly:

• Transforming Treatment Models: Advancing clinical practices to improve patient care outcomes.

• Driving Long-Term Vision: Establishing a foundation for the eventual eradication of cancer.

A Legacy of Philanthropy and Innovation

Phil Knight’s journey from selling sneakers out of his car in the early days of Blue Ribbon Sports to building Nike into the world’s most dominant athletic brand underscores his lifelong pursuit of impact. Time Magazine recently estimated their lifetime giving at $3.6 billion, with $370 million donated in 2024 alone.

The Knight Foundation, which reported more than $5 billion in assets at the close of 2023, continues to channel resources into high-impact initiatives, with this latest investment poised to redefine the future of cancer therapeutics.

Source: CNBC

Prepared by: Next Move Strategy Consulting