For nearly a century, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF) has remained steadfast in its mission to create a more equitable world for children and families. Established in 1930 by breakfast cereal pioneer Will Keith Kellogg, the foundation is rooted in the belief that every child deserves a future filled with opportunity, regardless of race, income, or zip code. Today, WKKF’s philanthropic work spans across the United States, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Southern Africa, with a special focus on supporting historically underserved communities.
At the heart of WKKF’s mission is a deep commitment to racial equity and healing, community engagement, and the creation of conditions where children and families can thrive. The foundation’s funding priorities span four vital areas: racial equity, early childhood education, health, and family economic security. Through these pillars, WKKF is transforming lives, empowering communities, and creating sustainable systems of change.
Addressing Inequality through Racial Equity and Healing
Systemic racism is still one of the greatest impediments to success for millions of kids and families. The W.K. Kellogg Foundation recognizes that without tackling the root causes of racial injustice, substantial gains in health, education, or economic growth are not possible.
WKKF’s Racial Equity and Healing program works to end structural racism and create inclusive societies. The Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (TRHT) program is the foundation’s signature program. It is an in-depth, grassroots process for uncovering and healing the historic and ongoing wounds of racism. It’s been rolled out in United States communities. It brings together national and local leaders, teachers, and civic organizations in the effort to create fair and just systems and policies.
The foundation also led the Racial Equity 2030 challenge, a global call to reimagine solutions to advance racial equity over the next decade. With $90 million in funding awarded to visionary organizations around the world, the challenge reflects WKKF’s belief that lasting change must be bold, inclusive, and community-led.
Supporting Thriving Children Through Early Childhood Development
Research shows that the first five years of life are critical to a child’s cognitive, emotional, and physical development. Yet too many children, especially those in low-income and marginalized communities, lack access to high-quality early care and learning experiences.
WKKF also invests in early childhood development programs to benefit children and families alike. From supporting preschool and childcare programs to preparing early teachers and caregivers, the foundation is narrowing the opportunity gap before it starts. WKKF-funded programs focus on cultural relevance, family engagement, and equitable access so children can live in homes where they can reach their full potential.
One important illustration of WKKF’s commitment is assistance to the Educare Learning Network, a collaboration of high-quality early childhood centers for children who are considered at risk. The network serves not only to give children enriched learning experiences but also to model scalable best practices in early learning.
Advancing Health Equity for All Families
A child’s well-being is the foundation of their potential to catch up in school, thrive, and be successful. Yet healthcare access is still profoundly unequal, especially for communities of color. WKKF tackles these shortfalls by investing in maternal and child health, behavioral and mental health services, and eliminating social determinants of health that put unnecessary restrictions on health achievement.
The foundation’s grantmaking supports initiatives that train community health workers, expand prenatal and pediatric care, and integrate health services into schools and community hubs. By focusing on prevention, community leadership, and culturally competent care, WKKF aims to build healthier futures from the ground up.
WKKF also partners with Indigenous communities, rural areas, and organizations that understand the specific challenges their populations face. Through these collaborations, the foundation strengthens the capacity of local leaders and institutions to deliver accessible, high-quality health services.
Building Family Economic Security and Generational Wealth
The financial well-being of a family directly relates to the well-being of the child. Financial insecurity frequently results in the instability of food and shelter, restricted educational access, and ongoing stress, which can disrupt the child’s growth.
WKKF’s focus is on economic security through the development of the labor force, entrepreneurship, and access to capital, particularly for communities of color and for women. Training programs for workers to gain good family-sustaining jobs are assisted by the foundation, along with projects to encourage the growth of small business and financial literacy.
Another is WKKF's investment in mission-oriented financial institutions that serve the underbanked. These alliances enhance financial inclusion while supporting local economic growth and resilience. WKKF also finances entities striving to close the racial wealth gap through asset building, homeownership, and fair economic policies.
Who is Eligible for WKKF Grants?
W.K. Kellogg Foundation funds nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and educational institutions whose efforts are in alignment with its mission and strategic priorities. Despite the lack of strict eligibility criteria listed on its webpages, successful applicants tend to:
- Work in racial equity, early childhood education, health, or economic security areas
- Serving communities of systemic disadvantage, in particular children and families
- Show dedication to community leadership and participation
- A history of having measurable impact and of sustainable practices
The foundation encourages prospective grantees to familiarize themselves with its values and areas of focus before submitting an application.
How to Request Funding from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation
WKKF accepts grant applications on a rolling basis. Organizations interested in applying should follow this step-by-step process:
- Register in the Grants Management System: The applicants are required to register through WKKF’s gateway.
- Submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI): This initial submission should briefly outline the organization’s mission, the proposed project, and how it aligns with WKKF’s priorities.
- Await Response: WKKF reviews each LOI and provides feedback within approximately 30 business days. Some applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal.
- Full Proposal Submission: The invited applicant will prepare an in-depth proposal containing the objectives, budget, anticipated results, and evaluation plans.
Full proposal funding decisions usually are made within 60 business days.
Organizations can, for the full directions, go to the foundation’s Grantseekers webpage.
Revitalizing Societies through Trust-Based Giving
Grant giving for WKKF is grounded in trust and community voice. The foundation doesn't dictate solutions but works in conjunction with community organizations and leaders who understand the nuances of the neighborhoods they are in.
With multi-year commitments to funding and assistance to building capacity, WKKF allows grantees to take long views. The foundation also promotes systems change, investing in research, policy, and advocacy work aimed at the root causes of inequity.
This comprehensive, equitable model of giving places WKKF at the forefront of the trend toward broader and more equitable grantmaking practices.
A Common Vision Towards a Brighter Future
In an age where inequality is still the single largest threat to the well-being of children, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation again shows leadership through boldness, empathy, and commitment to purpose. Through investments in families and focus on racial equity, health, learning, and economic opportunity, WKKF is building a world where every child, regardless of background, can thrive.
Organizations working to address these areas are welcome to seek out potential collaboration with WKKF.
To learn more about the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s grantmaking and how to apply, visit their grantseekers page.
