The Foundation
The Jeffrey Epstein VI Foundation was incorporated in the U.S. Virgin Islands and served as the primary vehicle through which Epstein channeled scientific and educational donations. The “VI” stood for Virgin Islands, where it was registered.
Funding Areas
The foundation supported research in mathematics, physics, cognitive science, and evolutionary biology. Its grants went primarily to programs at Harvard and MIT, though it also funded smaller grants to other research programs.
Institutional Credibility
By operating through a named foundation, Epstein gained institutional credibility that a personal donation might not have provided. The foundation appeared on grant paperwork and in institutional records, providing a layer of legitimate structure.
USVI Registration Benefits
Registration in the USVI provided tax benefits and, potentially, some opacity about the foundation’s actual finances through USVI corporate and nonprofit registration rules.
Post-Death Disposition
As part of the USVI settlement in 2022, the Epstein USVI-based foundation was required to be dissolved, with assets directed toward victim compensation.