Our strategy: Igniting potential. Driving progress.

Our Strategic Plan

Since October 2023, the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation has undergone a rigorous, community-informed strategic planning process to refocus our commitment to Mr. Kauffman’s vision for our work and to drive collective impact in the community. This updated strategy will drive our work through 2035.

Download the Plan

WATCH: “An updated strategy for greater collective impact” | 1:21

The Process

This strategic planning process included input from hundreds of grantees, civic leaders, Kauffman associates and trustees, and other partners in our mission. Deep conversations and many planning sessions thoughtfully charted the development of a strategic refresh that will guide the Foundation for the next ten years.

Community Voice

Through individual and group listening sessions, the Kauffman Foundation identified areas of opportunity in the community. This was one step in our continued commitment to partnering with our communities to advance equitable economic mobility.

Our 2035 Strategic Vision

With the Kauffman Foundation’s support, greater Kansas City will become a national model for equitable economic mobility, dismantling systemic barriers and setting generations of historically under-resourced communities on the path to prosperity.

We believe it.

Everything we do is grounded in the generosity and love for Kansas City that Mr. Kauffman infused into the heart of our mission. Our vision, strategy, and partnerships embody his intent and commitment to the community. That is why we are dedicated to advancing equitable opportunities, spurring economic growth, and creating a model for the country.

We dream it.

We dream of a more equitable Kansas City, where economic mobility is a reality for all. Where Black, Latino, and low-income Kansas Citians have access to education and business ownership that closes the wealth gap and builds financial futures.

We strive to uplift opportunities that help people achieve financial stability, upward mobility, and economic prosperity – regardless of race, gender, or geography. By increasing college access and completion, strengthening workforce opportunities, and improving access to business ownership, we’re driving equitable economic mobility.

We mean it.

When we say that all the money in the world can’t solve problems unless we work together, we mean it. We are deeply committed to partnering with community champions, bold changemakers, and innovative organizations everywhere. Collaboration and collective impact are our reality. Together, we can help communities thrive.

We reorganized our structure and processes to better align with the 2035 vision, and are implementing transparent and equitable grantmaking that encourages innovation to drive the greatest impact toward that vision.

All the money in the world can’t solve problems unless we work together.
— Ewing Marion Kauffman
Founder

Strategic Priorities

Our strategic priorities reflect the heart of our mission, uplifting access to opportunities that help people achieve financial stability, upward mobility, and economic prosperity – regardless of race, gender, or geography.

College access and completion – equitable opportunities for all

Students and communities thrive when educational pathways are affordable, high-quality, and attainable for all. We support solutions that prepare students to start and complete college, and transition to good-paying jobs.

Workforce and career development – at every stage

When people have access to training, support, and the opportunity to achieve and progress on a career path, they can attain an equitable living wage, setting generations of people on the path to prosperity.

Entrepreneurship – supporting and sustaining small business ownership

When aspiring, early stage, and established business owners are connected to peer networks, startup training, tools, and resources, we improve conditions for both individual and community economic mobility.

How We Work

The Kauffman Foundation is working to change systems and support people on the path to equitable economic mobility. We do this by collaborating with community, funding leaders of color, conducting research on strategy-related topics, and building coalitions. In support of our work, we adhere to these values:

Connect With Us

Our program leaders and other experts can offer perspective and background to members of the media on topics related to working together for a better future. If you have any questions about the strategy driving Kauffman’s work through 2035, please fill out the form below.

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