The charitable foundation founded by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has reportedly been forced to lay off a large
portion of its workforce as it struggles with declining donations and rising operating costs.
According to Page Six, three out of five employees at Archewell have recently been made redundant — amounting to around 60 per cent of the organisation’s staff — as part of a major cost-cutting effort to keep the charity afloat.
Only two senior figures remain
Following the layoffs, Archewell is said to be left with just two key personnel:
James Holt, the foundation’s executive director and a long-time adviser to the Sussexes since their time as working royals, and Shauna Nep, vice president overseeing philanthropic operations.
A spokesperson for Harry and Meghan confirmed that staff reductions had taken place, describing them as “unavoidable”, particularly for lower-level administrative roles. The spokesperson added that the couple were grateful for the contributions of departing employees but declined to comment further on personnel matters.
Donations fail to cover costs
Sources familiar with the situation say Archewell has been forced to scale back after operational expenses significantly outpaced incoming donations.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are reportedly facing difficult decisions about the charity’s future, including whether to shut it down entirely or seek support from another organisation willing to act as a financial sponsor and absorb some of the costs.
Financial filings raise concerns
Recent financial reports highlight the extent of Archewell’s difficulties.
In 2024, the foundation spent approximately $5.1 million, while raising only $2.1 million in donations — continuing a pattern of spending that exceeds income.
The previous year also saw Archewell operating at a loss, reinforcing concerns that the charity’s current structure may be unsustainable without significant changes.
Rebrand amid uncertainty
Just last week, Harry and Meghan announced that Archewell Foundation would be renamed Archewell Philanthropies, marking the organisation’s fifth anniversary.
In an accompanying impact report, the charity stated that its original mission remains unchanged, with a continued focus on community initiatives and global mental health projects — despite what it described as ongoing challenges.
An uncertain future
Once positioned as the philanthropic cornerstone of Harry and Meghan’s post-royal life, Archewell is now facing questions about its long-term viability.
With staff numbers drastically reduced and funding under pressure, observers say the coming months will be critical in determining whether the Sussexes’ charity can continue operating independently — or whether more drastic measures lie ahead.