The Duke Endowment is a private foundation established in 1924 by James Buchanan Duke, a wealthy tobacco and electric power magnate. Its primary purpose is to support education, health care, and religious institutions in the Carolinas. The endowment focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the region through grants and funding initiatives. The foundation is best known for its significant contributions to Duke University, which was named after James Duke's family. Additionally, it supports various hospitals, health programs, and community organizations, aiming to improve access to quality services and promote overall well-being in the North Carolina and South Carolina areas.