Ben & Jerry’s Foundation plans shutdown amid funding dispute with parent company Magnum

The Ben & Jerry’s Foundation announced it will shut down at the end of 2026 after a funding dispute with its parent company, Magnum Ice Cream, left the philanthropic arm without financial support. The foundation, which has operated for 40 years, provides about $600,000 annually in grants to Vermont nonprofits, including organizations focused on immigrant rights and LGBTQ+ services. The closure follows an ongoing legal battle over governance and control of Ben & Jerry’s social mission. The foundation has received $60 million from its corporate parent since the ice cream company was acquired by Unilever in 2000.