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About the
DK FOUNDATION
A vision for providing equal opportunity to individuals to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges.
The Dharma Karma Foundation was started in 2018 by serial tech entrepreneur and philanthropist, Peter Relan. Our mission is to support innovative solutions to the world's most pressing technological challenges including climate change, access to education, ethical AI, and social equity.
The Foundation draws inspiration from Asian cultures and virtues, Dharma (the duty of living in a way that benefits and sustains society) and Karma (the belief that doing good, begets more good). By investing in R&D using grants and Mission Related Investments (MRIs) we aim to have a meaningful impact on our communities and a positive ripple effect across the globe.
Our Mission
"A single decision can catalyze a chain of positive events."
-Aanchal Mathur
Our Founder
Rising from a modest background and as an immigrant in the United States, Peter overcame hardships by placing emphasis on education. After completing an undergraduate degree at UCLA, Peter worked in tech as a software engineer, and then as a research engineer in the lab run by one of the cofounders of the internet/tcp/ip. After completing his graduate studies at Stanford in 1992, Peter worked as a tech executive at Oracle before embarking on a journey as a serial founder - making significant contributions across diverse technology fields over the next 30 years.
Throughout the years, Peter has regularly made donations to several philanthropic organizations in healthcare and education. His diverse experience in the corporate and philanthropic landscape inspired him to bridge the gap between mentorship and education, and creating long-term positive impact.
Peter’s personal commitment extends to the Dharma Karma (DK) Foundation, founded in 2018, focusing on critical issues including climate change, equity and education. Through his leadership, the DK Foundation has become a catalyst for a more inclusive and innovative future, where everyone, regardless of background, can create lasting impact in a way that benefits and sustains society.
In addition, Peter has served on:
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the Board of The Tech (promotes familiarity with technology to the youth of Bay Area
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the Founders Society of Brighter Children
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the Advisory Board of the Institute of Carbon Management at UCLA
Partners
