Strategic Philanthropy Through Grants and Social Investments
The Kresge Foundation is a private, national foundation that works to expand equity and opportunities in America’s cities through grantmaking and social investing in arts and culture, education, environment, health, human services and community development, nationally and in Detroit, Memphis, New Orleans and Fresno. In collaboration with our partners, we help create pathways for people with low incomes to improve their life circumstances and join the economic mainstream.
Learn About Our Work
In 1924, with an initial gift of $1.6 million, Sebastian Spering Kresge established The Kresge Foundation in Detroit to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the S.S. Kresge Company.
Our Story
How we approach our work We embrace risk-taking, balancing proven approaches with those that show promise in solving today’s challenges.
How we work with others We embrace collaboration to devise and implement solutions, leveraging collective insight, networks and resources.
How we pursue justice and dignity for all Our inclusive culture embraces shared humanity while examining racial, cultural and socially systemic inequities.
How we treat one another We value everyone’s background and perspective, and display honesty, kindness and trust in all interactions.
How we seek to improve lives Through grants and other investing tools, we work to expand opportunities for people living in America’s cities.
How we manage our assets We exhibit integrity, humility, excellence and responsibility in care of all the foundation’s resources.
Integral to our values is our commitment to diversity. Evident in the composition of our staff and board, we strive for continuous learning together, exploring and activating DEI both in our organization and work.
Learn More
Get Kresge’s Weekly Newsletter each Thursday, or sign up for program-specific newsletters. You can also find and follow and chat with us on social media.
“Our programs reflect the inflection points where we hope to make a difference in the lives of people in cities who lack access to opportunity.”
Interested in working at Kresge? We list all open positions on our Careers page.
Embedded within our values is a commitment to transparency and accountability.
Find our most recent news announcements or connect with us for an interview.