James and Agnes Kim Foundation: Grants for Philadelphia

OVERVIEW: The James and Agnes Kim Foundation primarily funds grantmaking related to education, arts, culture, and health. It also earmarks funds for other organizations that improve the community.

IP TAKE: The foundation keeps a low public profile, which limits information available on its grantmaking priorities and activities. Among other interests, it invests in Korean Studies, for those seeking related funds. Grants tend to focus on education or Catholic missions.

PROFILE: Established in 1997, the James and Agnes Kim Foundation was founded by James and Agnes Kim, who launched video computer and video games retailer EB Games. James also created Amkor Technology, which he molded into a world leading independent fabricator of chips and ICs. The foundation does not maintain a website, which restricts further information regarding its priority areas and grantmaking strategies. According to tax filings, the James and Agnes Kim Foundation primarily funds grantmaking related to education, arts, culture, and health. It also earmarks funds for other organizations that improve the community.

The foundation does not have a website to guide grantseekers. However, it often provides general contributions to support to local causes in its region of focus. James Kim is a steady patron of his alma mater University of Pennsylvania, home to the James Joo-Jin Jim Program in Korean Studies. The Kims support other schools with which they have a personal connection. Other grantmaking tracks with board memberships, and the couple’s daughter Susan Kim has ties to organizations like Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia, the recipient of recent 7-figure gifts.

Grants range between $5,000 to around $1 million. In a recent year, the foundation gave away approximately $2.2 million. Learn more about this funder’s local giving by examining its recent tax records. Grantmaking focuses on the Philadelphia area, including its Main Line suburbs. Past local grantees include Temple University (where James Kim received an honorary degree); Young Scholars Charter School; Philadelphia Museum of Art; and Philabundance, a hunger relief organization.

The foundation keeps a low profile and does not accept unsolicited applications.

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CONTACT:

James and Agnes Kim Foundation
1500 E. Lancaster Ave.
Paoli, PA 1930