  Overview of the Nissan Foundation
Established in 1992 in the Los Angeles area, the Nissan Foundation was created to help address growing social challenges and community unrest. With a strong presence in California, Nissan sought to support local communities through charitable programs and civic engagement. Over the years, the foundation has provided funding to schools, libraries, media organizations, and cultural institutions across the United States. Its grants are designed to encourage diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness, particularly in communities that may lack adequate resources. By 2025, the foundation had distributed nearly $18 million in grants, benefiting over 150 non-profit organizations. As a global company, Nissan continues to promote diversity far beyond the automotive industry.
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 those in Detroit, Michigan; Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas; and across Mississippi. Recently, the foundation supported two notable cultural programs in Mississippi, giving students the opportunity to visit the Museum of Mississippi History and learn about significant 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 requirements, including at least three years of continuous operation and a valid 501(c)(3) designation under the latest U.S. Internal Revenue Code.
To learn more about Nissan’s philanthropic initiatives, contact our Nissan dealership and see how the company continues to invest in communities nationwide.