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
Special Match for Social Justice Causes
Back in 2017, the Steelcase Foundation Annual Report entitled, Remove Obstacles, Foster Justice took a deep dive into the Foundation’s efforts to address longstanding systemic inequities in our communities. While…
Campaign to Increase Affordable Housing in Grand Rapids
In January, Dwelling Place received $150,000 toward its Campaign to Increase Affordable Housing in Grand Rapids. Dwelling Place will construct 119 units of affordable housing in the West Grand and…
Daniel Williams Next Steelcase Foundation President
The Steelcase Foundation is excited to announce Daniel Williams, EdD will serve as its next president effective February 22, 2021. “We are delighted to welcome Daniel as the next president…
Building the Early Childhood Talent Pool Through the Bridge Program
In October, the Steelcase Foundation awarded $165,000 over three years to Vibrant Futures (formerly Camp Fire West Michigan 4C), Kent County’s leading organization for education, business development, and training of…