Michael Dell and his wife Susan announced a historic $6.25 billion donation Tuesday to fund “Trump Accounts” for 25 million American children under 10, supercharging a new federal program aimed at giving kids a financial head start. The massive gift, one of the largest direct philanthropic commitments to U.S. citizens ever, will deposit $250 into each eligible account starting July 4, 2026, targeting families in ZIP codes with median incomes below $150,000.
Trump Accounts explained
The accounts stem from President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which seeds investment accounts with a $1,000 government deposit for every U.S. child born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028. Families can add their own funds, but withdrawals are restricted until the child turns 18, with the goal of building long-term wealth through market growth. Michael Dell, whose net worth tops $148 billion, called it a way to “build hope and opportunity for generations,” drawing from his own rise from modest beginnings.
Why the Dells stepped up
Dell first learned of the idea from hedge fund manager Brad Gerstner and saw it as a chance to scale impact beyond traditional charity. The couple’s pledge covers kids not eligible for the government’s seed money, potentially reaching 80% of children in the targeted age group. President Trump plans to join Dell in the Oval Office for the announcement, praising it as a model for other businesses and philanthropists.
Market reaction and broader impact
Dell Technologies shares rose following Trump’s public endorsement on social media. White House officials hailed the gift as a “call to action,” predicting more pledges to amplify the program. Critics and supporters alike note its novelty—few donations this size go straight to individuals—while families in qualifying areas prepare to claim accounts once the Treasury launches the system. For millions of kids, it could mean real nest eggs; for donors like the Dells, a bold bet on compounding opportunity.