  Overview of the Nissan Foundation
The Nissan Foundation was launched in 1992 in the Los Angeles area to help address social challenges and community unrest. With a strong presence in California, Nissan sought to support local communities through charitable programs and community involvement. Over time, the foundation has provided funding to schools, libraries, media organizations, and cultural institutions across the United States. Its grants focus on fostering diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness, particularly 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 advance diversity well beyond the automotive sector.
2026 Nissan Foundation Plans
For the 2026 grant cycle, several major metropolitan areas are expected to be eligible. Organizations in these regions can submit a Letter of Intent to begin the application process. Eligible non-profits include groups in Detroit, Michigan; Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas; and across Mississippi. Recently, the foundation supported two notable cultural programs in Mississippi, providing 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 certain requirements, including at least three years of continuous operation and holding a valid 501(c)(3) status under the most recent 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 nationwide.