An Overview
At the Steelcase Foundation, we empower people to reach their full potential. Quality, accessible public education is paramount to achieving this vision, as well as generating education, work and cultural opportunities. The Steelcase Foundation uses a social justice lens to evaluate projects that improve equity and opportunities for everyone in Steelcase Inc.’s founding community of Grand Rapids, Michigan (Kent County) and in Athens, Alabama (Limestone County), where Steelcase operates a large manufacturing facility.
Independent from Steelcase Inc., the Foundation was established in 1951 by Steelcase founders and original trustees, Walter Idema and David Hunting Sr., to support “charitable, scientific, literary, and educational causes”. Today, the Foundation supports projects that drive systemic change in our communities, with a goal of directing 60 percent of our annual budget toward education.
How do I apply for a Grant?
The Steelcase Foundation provides grants to independent 501(c)(3) organizations based in Grand Rapids, Michigan (Kent County) and Athens, Alabama (Limestone County) who support education, arts and culture, and human service causes. The process starts with a letter of inquiry.
Will you match my gift?
Educational, arts/cultural, and environmental/conservations institutions play a vital role in our lives and help us create healthy communities. To encourage your voluntary financial support of these institutions, the Steelcase Foundation will match your eligible donations on a dollar for dollar basis. We will also match donations to select crisis, disaster and relief organizations.
Who have you supported in the past?
From early childhood education support to the creation of a natural science museum center, the Steelcase Foundation considers itself lucky to partner with organizations making an impact in their communities. Browse our latest annual report to see our recent projects.
Updates & Reports
Can you Imagine? A Future Filled with Hope!
In October, Degáge Ministries, a Grand Rapids nonprofit dedicated to serving homeless and low-income individuals facing hardship, received $200,000 toward its Can You Imagine? A Future Filled With Hope! capital…
Suicide Prevention Education in Limestone County Schools
In October, Crisis Services of North Alabama, received $13,026 over two years ($6,513 annually) to provide suicide prevention education to approximately 1,800 students and staff in Limestone County Schools. The…
CASA of Kent County Invests in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
In October, CASA of Kent County received $50,844 over three years ($16,948 annually) to support A Voice For Every Child, a diversity, equity, and inclusion initiative to recruit staff, board,…
Play-ing with a Purpose at Brookhill Elementary
In October, Brookhill Elementary School in Athens, AL received $10,000 to support its afterschool theater arts program, Play-ing With a Purpose, in collaboration with the Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater and…