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About Us

It all starts with access to opportunity for people to improve their lives.

The Kauffman Foundation provides access to opportunities that help people achieve financial stability, upward mobility, and economic prosperity – regardless of race, gender, or geography.

Our grantmaking, research, programs, and initiatives support the start and growth of new businesses, a more prepared workforce, and stronger communities.

We work in Kansas City and the surrounding states of Missouri and Kansas. We champion organizations and communities that test innovative solutions and seek to change conditions. We work nationwide through programs, research, and policy.

Our grantmaking to nonprofit organizations connects students, educators, families, and entrepreneurs with practical solutions and resources to realize their ambitions.

As a result, new businesses and a stronger supply of skilled individuals drive regional economic growth and set us all on a path to greater financial stability, upward mobility, and economic prosperity.

Our Vision

A society of economically empowered individuals contributing to the improvement of their communities.

Our Mission

We seek to prepare people for success in their jobs and careers, so that everyone has the opportunity to achieve economic stability, mobility, and prosperity. Our work is grounded in the principles of racial equity, diversity, and inclusion and is consistent with the aspirations of our founder, Ewing Marion Kauffman.


Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

We focus our work on people whose opportunities have been limited. We begin with racial equity because
we believe achieving racial equity benefits everyone:

  • Better job and career pathways.
  • A stronger and fairer economy.
  • More resilient communities.
  • A better quality of life for all.

Success in life should not be determined by race, gender, or geography. This transformation demonstrates that when we build supportive systems in place of broken ones, we all win. Learn more about our commitment >

At Mr. Kauffman's last public appearance, he greets a crowd wearing a Royal blue suit.

Our Founder

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.