  Overview of the Nissan Foundation
Created in 1992 in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, the Nissan Foundation emerged in response to growing social challenges and civil unrest in the city. With an established corporate presence in California, the company aimed to strengthen local communities through philanthropic efforts and public involvement. Over the years, Nissan has supported schools, media outlets, libraries, and cultural organizations across the United States. Its grants emphasize promoting diversity, inclusion, and cultural understanding—particularly within underserved communities. By 2025, the foundation had distributed nearly $18 million in grants nationwide, supporting more than 150 non-profit organizations. As an international brand, Nissan remains committed to celebrating diversity beyond the automotive world.
2026 Nissan Foundation Plans
For the 2026 grant cycle, several major metropolitan regions may be eligible to participate. Organizations within the selected areas can submit a Letter of Intent for consideration. Non-profit groups based in Detroit, Michigan, and Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas, are among those eligible, along with organizations located in Mississippi. Recently, the foundation helped fund two significant cultural programs within Mississippi, enabling students to visit the Museum of Mississippi History and explore key societal topics at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. The new grant cycle opens on July 1, 2026, and runs until June 30, 2027. Applicants must meet strict eligibility requirements, including a minimum of three years of ongoing service and a valid 501(c)(3) status under the latest U.S. Internal Revenue Code.
Contact our Nissan dealership to learn more about Nissan’s philanthropic initiatives and discover how the brand continues to support communities nationwide.