Kauffman’s Currents features stories and insights that underscore the essential role of education and entrepreneurship in empowering all people to shape their futures, create vibrant communities, and grow an inclusive economy.
Our strategic priorities reflect the heart of our mission: college access and completion, workforce and career development, and entrepreneurship.
Through transparency, rigor, inclusivity, and responsiveness, we aim to ensure accountability, build trust, and acknowledge diverse perspectives.
The Kauffman Foundation operates the following programs: 1 Million Cups, Kauffman FastTrac®, and Real World Learning.
Our funding philosophy is shaped by research, community-informed feedback, and the legacy established by our founder, Ewing Marion Kauffman.
Our grantmaking is aligned to our strategic priorities and focus areas, driving toward our goal of equitable economic mobility for Kansas Citians.
In sponsorships, we support organizations and programs that align with our strategic priorities, which reflect the heart of our mission.
The Kauffman Uncommon Leader Awards recognize leaders who are making a lasting impact within their nonprofit organizations and the communities they serve.
Everything we do is grounded in the generosity and love for Kansas City that Mr. Kauffman infused into the heart of our mission.
Our team is made up of connectors and supporters who believe all people should have the opportunity to thrive.
Ewing Kauffman’s life took him on an unconventional path that allowed him to enrich the lives of others along the way.
August 2025 | Our next round of Capacity Building grants is open until September 12, 2025. Optional office hours are available on August 14, August 26, and September 6. Spaces are limited – register today!
Together, let’s recognize everyday Kansas Citians doing extraordinary things to uplift their neighbors and neighborhoods.
The Uncommon Leader Impact Award will honor a non-C-suite employee at a 501(c)(3) public charity who drives meaningful impact through their work aligned with the Kauffman Foundation’s mission to advance economic mobility, exemplifies the core values of our founder, Ewing Marion Kauffman, and demonstrates significant contributions to the Kansas City region’s well-being and growth.
We believe people, communities, and economies can thrive when pathways to economic prosperity are equitable, accessible, and attainable.
Our funding philosophy is shaped by research, community-informed feedback, and the legacy established by our founder, Ewing Marion Kauffman. Explore our funding >
Get stories, insights, and the uncommon voices of those who are shaping the future, creating vibrant communities, and growing inclusive economies. Read our stories >
We champion ideas and support solutions designed to improve economic mobility for all. Learn more about the Kauffman Foundation >
Ewing Marion Kauffman was an entrepreneur and humanitarian whose innovative and long-lasting contributions have benefited millions of people in his hometown of Kansas City and beyond.