  Overview of the Nissan Foundation
The Nissan Foundation was launched in 1992 in the Los Angeles area to address growing social challenges and community unrest. With a strong presence in California, Nissan aimed 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 country. Its grants focus on promoting diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness, particularly in communities with limited 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 champion 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 throughout Mississippi. Recently, the foundation supported two important cultural initiatives 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, through 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.