Rockefeller-Temasek coalition pushes nuclear as philanthropic funding lags

Only 0.1–0.2% of climate philanthropy supports nuclear energy.

The Rockefeller Foundation and Temasek Trust have launched the Global Coalition for Nuclear Philanthropy (GCNP) to mobilise more capital into nuclear energy, a sector that receives less than 0.2% of climate philanthropy support.

The GCNP will serve as a platform for philanthropic funders to share knowledge, identify funding opportunities, and develop partnerships across the nuclear sector.

The coalition is designed to support countries exploring nuclear energy integration into their power mix over the next five to 10 years.

Key focus areas include building public support, expanding nuclear-related talent and institutions, improving financing structures, and strengthening governance and safety frameworks.

It will draw expertise from governments, industry, academia, civil society, and international institutions, with local stakeholders and practitioners identifying priorities and designing interventions.

Temasek Trust’s philanthropy advisory arm, TT Foundation Advisors, will provide infrastructure support to the consortium’s secretariat during its initial years, including donor-advised fund and grant management services.

Oppenheimer Project, which co-developed the coalition, will serve as a strategic partner.

The launch comes as interest in nuclear energy grows among policymakers, technology firms, and financial institutions, despite decades of underinvestment in the sector by philanthropy.

According to analysis by Founders Pledge drawing on ClimateWorks Foundation data, only 0.1–0.2% of climate philanthropy supports nuclear energy, less than $2 of every $1,000.

“Nuclear power is a vital clean energy source that can help address the climate crisis,” said Desmond Kuek, Executive Director and CEO, Temasek Trust.

Kuek added that the initiative aims to convene like-minded partners to promote responsible nuclear energy development with strong safety, security, and waste management standards.