Overview of the Nissan Foundation
The Nissan Foundation was created in 1992 in the Los Angeles area to address growing social challenges and community unrest. With a significant presence in California, Nissan aimed to strengthen local communities through charitable initiatives and civic engagement. Over the years, the foundation has supported schools, libraries, media organizations, and cultural institutions across the United States. Its grants focus on fostering diversity, inclusion, and cultural understanding, especially in communities that may lack sufficient resources. By 2025, the foundation had awarded nearly $18 million in grants, benefiting more than 150 non-profit organizations. As a global company, Nissan continues to promote diversity far beyond the automotive sector.
2026 Nissan Foundation Plans
For the 2026 grant cycle, several major metropolitan regions are expected to be eligible. Organizations in these areas can submit a Letter of Intent to start the application process. Eligible non-profits include those in Detroit, Michigan; Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas; and throughout Mississippi. Recently, the foundation supported two important cultural programs in Mississippi, giving students the chance to visit the Museum of Mississippi History and learn about key social issues at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. The 2026 grant cycle runs from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including a minimum of three years of continuous operation and holding a valid 501(c)(3) status under the latest U.S. Internal Revenue Code.
To learn more about Nissan’s philanthropic efforts, contact our Nissan dealership and discover how the company continues to invest in communities across the country.