Our funding Our funding philosophy is shaped by research, community-informed feedback, and the legacy established by our founder, Ewing Marion Kauffman. It is also grounded in a four-pillar framework of proximity to community, getting uncomfortable, achieving impact, and creating hope. Learn more about our philosophy ExploreGrantmakingSponsorshipsAwards Back to top ^ Grantmaking Sponsorships Awards Our grantmaking approach Over the next 10 years, we are committed to closing economic mobility gaps in Kansas City. We are more dedicated than ever to doing hard things – even if uncomfortable – for the sake of innovation and possibility.— Dr. DeAngela Burns-WallacePresident and CEO, Kauffman Foundation We are committed to a focused, coherent, research-informed strategy to reach our goals. We seek projects that ignite potential and drive uncommon results through bold innovation, collective impact, transparency, and accountability. We support local, regional, and national changemakers to unlock learner potential, clear the path and remove barriers, and rethink the future of work and learning. We seek to be a model for learning by engaging and listening to local and national organizations, sharing our successes and failures, and continuously adapting our work in response to feedback and evaluation. WATCH: “Our approach to grantmaking” | 4:49 Our funding priorities & focus areas Strategic priorities Together with our community, we believe we can shift the landscape in three strategies — college access and completion, workforce and career development, and entrepreneurship — prioritized because of their anticipated power to advance economic mobility. Download to learn more Focus areas In alignment with these priorities, we are seeking projects at the intersection of innovation and impact through the focus areas of essential competencies and skills, education and employer connection, participation and belonging, and equitable access. Download to learn more Explore our funding opportunities Grantmaking We offer grants through an ongoing cycle. The funding amounts, grant terms, and application criteria vary by type. Learn more about our grant opportunities Sponsorships Each year, we dedicate specific funds to sponsor events that connect people and raise funding for vital programs that are aligned with our mission. Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities Awards Beginning in 2025, we will offer awards to recognize community champions and bold changemakers having impact in the Kansas City area. Learn more about our award opportunities