Khan Academy is a nonprofit educational organization headquartered in Mountain View, California, United States. It is globally recognized for offering free, high-quality online learning resources across subjects like mathematics, science, economics, arts, and humanities.
Founded in 2008 by Salman “Sal” Khan, the organization has grown into one of the most influential online learning platforms, serving millions of students worldwide. As of September 2025, Khan Academy is led by Sal Khan, who continues to serve as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Ownership Status of Khan Academy
Khan Academy has no private owner. Since it is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, ownership is not vested in an individual or group of shareholders. Instead, it is governed by a Board of Directors, which provides oversight, ensures mission alignment, and makes major strategic and financial decisions.
Funding for Khan Academy primarily comes from donations, grants, and philanthropic contributions, rather than profit-driven investments.
Major Supporters & Donors (Not Owners)
| Supporter / Donor | Type of Support | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation | Grant funding | Supported educational expansion and global projects. |
| Financial & technical | Contributed funds and translation support for content. | |
| Ann & John Doerr Foundation | Philanthropic donation | Significant contributions to sustain operations. |
| Individual Donors Worldwide | Donations | Millions contribute through recurring or one-time gifts. |
Note: These entities support Khan Academy financially, but none of them own it. The organization remains independent and mission-driven.
Key Leadership & Governance
- Founder & CEO: Salman “Sal” Khan
- President & COO: Ginny Lee (appointed to scale operations)
- Board of Directors: Includes Ann Doerr, Curtis Feeny, James Manyika, Larry Cohen, Patricia Levesque, Laura Overdeck, David Siegel, Scott Cook, and others.
The board oversees financial decisions, leadership performance, and strategic planning, ensuring Khan Academy stays true to its mission.
Recent Developments in Governance & Expansion
- In 2024, Ginny Lee joined Khan Academy as President & COO to help scale the nonprofit’s reach and improve global learning accessibility.
- Khan Academy has expanded its services with Khanmigo, an AI-powered tutoring assistant that enhances personalized learning.
- The nonprofit continues to attract philanthropic support and maintain transparency through IRS Form 990 filings in the U.S.
FAQs
1. Who is the current owner of Khan Academy?
Khan Academy has no private owner. It is a nonprofit governed by its board of directors.
2. Is Sal Khan the owner of Khan Academy?
No. Sal Khan is the founder and CEO, but since Khan Academy is a nonprofit, he does not “own” it.
3. How does Khan Academy get funded?
It is funded through donations, grants, and philanthropic contributions from individuals, foundations, and corporations.
4. Who governs Khan Academy?
The organization is governed by its Board of Directors and managed by its leadership team.
5. Has the ownership of Khan Academy changed recently?
No. Since it is a nonprofit, ownership does not change. Leadership appointments, however, evolve to support growth.
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