Spotlight: Impact

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

4801 Rockhill Rd
Kansas City, MO
https://www.kauffman.org/

Year founded:

The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation was established in its present form and fully funded by Ewing Kauffman in 1987.

Tell us about the mission of your non-profit (up to 500 words)

We are a philanthropic foundation that believes 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. Our strategic priorities reflect the heart of our mission: college access and completion, workforce and career development, and entrepreneurship.

What's a recent success story or milestone you're proud of?

The launch of our refreshed funding strategy has been a milestone opportunity for the Kauffman Foundation to renew our commitment to our community. Our grantmaking philosophy emphasizes proximity to community, addressing tough challenges, driving impactful results, and fostering hope through research-driven innovation and ongoing collaboration with changemakers. By focusing on areas with the greatest potential for impact, we are setting the stage for long-term economic mobility and equitable growth in Kansas City and beyond.

What do you love most about being part of the Chamber?

The work of the Mid-America LGBT Chamber of Commerce enriches our community by leveling the playing field and welcoming the creative energy of a wider circle of entrepreneurs. When everyone belongs and knows acceptance, we move closer to living in a place where every person is seen and every voice is heard.

What would you like our Chamber members to know about your business which isn’t necessarily obvious?

In addition to his remarkable benevolence that has served to fund all the grants, resources, facilities, and staffing of the Kauffman Foundation, Ewing Kauffman left us with a series of recorded interviews. During these sessions Mr. Kauffman told his life story, highlighted his earliest memories of boyhood, years in the Navy, starting Marion Laboratories, establishing the Kansas City Royals, and founding the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. We continue to refer to these videos and share them with associates on a regular basis to offer insights and inspiration to Foundation associates and trustees charged with carrying out Mr. Kauffman's expectations and hopes for the Kauffman Foundation.