The Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation

Overview

The Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation (PDFF) is a Delaware nonprofit that promotes entrepreneurship and free enterprise, honoring the legacy of former Delaware Governor Pierre "Pete" S. du Pont IV. Founded in 2003, the foundation functions as an entrepreneurial incubator, identifying and supporting bold business and civic ideas intended to create jobs and improve life in Delaware.

Key functions and role

PDFF's flagship Reinventing Delaware program, launched in 2014, invites public submissions of business and civic ideas each year; finalists present at an annual dinner where attendees vote on top ideas, which then receive six months of professional mentorship, media coverage and a monetary award. The foundation also runs the Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystem (E3) program supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs and presents the annual Pete du Pont Freedom Award recognizing contributions to free enterprise in Delaware.

History

The foundation was established in 2003 to carry forward the legacy of Pete du Pont, who served in the Delaware legislature, three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, and two terms as Delaware's governor from 1977 to 1985, during which he pursued lower taxes and reduced state spending. Du Pont later sought the 1988 Republican presidential nomination and remained active in free-market commentary until his death on May 8, 2021. The foundation has since partnered with the Hagley Museum to preserve and digitize his writings, speeches and photographs.

Political positions

PDFF describes its mission in terms of Pete du Pont's stated values of free enterprise, self-reliance and limited government, reflecting the free-market, lower-tax philosophy that characterized his tenure as governor and his 1988 presidential campaign.

Leadership

Stephanie Johnnie serves as Executive Director. The foundation is governed by a board of directors drawn from Delaware business and civic leadership.

Location and contact info

Address
P.O. Box 221
Montchanin, DE 19710, USA
Phone
(302) 388-1552
Website
https://petedupontfreedomfoundation.org