Vermeer Charitable Foundation
/OVERVIEW: The Vermeer Charitable Foundation supports Christian causes, education, environmental protection, and business mentoring in Iowa.
IP TAKE: This is a corporate funder with heavy family involvement and Christian convictions that guide grantmaking. Grantseekers looking for grants for on-going operational budgets should look elsewhere.
PROFILE: Established in 1958, the Vermeer Charitable Foundation (VCF) is a grantmaking foundation based in Pella, Iowa. This is the philanthropic arm of the Vermeer Manufacturing Company, and Vermeer family members have been involved in the foundation’s work since the early 1970s. Third-generation Vermeer family members serve on the VCF board. The company and its foundation aim to “be a blessing especially in serving our team members and their communities in gratitude for their contributions of hard work toward the success of Vermeer Corporation.” VCF funds local efforts for Christian causes, education, environmental protection, and business mentoring.
Grants for Education, Environment, and Work and Economic Opportunity
The Vermeer Charitable Foundation initially focused its efforts on brick-and-mortar projects and gradually shifted its attention to education and scholarships. More recent interests are business mentoring and environmental protection. VCR prioritizes local work and has steadily supported local hospitals, arts and cultural organizations, libraries, and schools. The funder has strong religious overtones and prioritizes Christian and faith-based causes. It typically funds special projects and programs rather than general operating support.
Past local grantees include the Pella Opera House, Pella Indoor Swimming Pool, and the Pella Christian High School.
Important Grant Details
Grants range between about $100 and $25,000. Grantmaking focuses on Iowa and especially the Pella vicinity.
This foundation accepts unsolicited grant inquiries from nonprofits. Organizations may send a letter by mail or an email to the staff to request login information to access the grant form. The foundation meets three times per year to review and award grants. The application deadlines are typically in December, April, and September. Direct general questions to the staff at charitablefoundation@vermeer.com or 641-628-3141.
PEOPLE:
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