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We Care For The World We Move!

Our Purpose Statement: We Care for the World We Move and the World Group Foundation’s purpose is driven by the powerful idea that the way we care can make a difference. In a world of finite resources and infinite possibilities, our purpose is to support innovative organizations who champion the core philanthropic passions of our World Group Family.

United by our unwavering commitment to Land, Air, Sea, and Humanity, we will redefine the meaning of caring through action, and do our part to transform the World.

Partner with Us to Drive Change
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Our Core Value message

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Our mission is simple and clear
Through purposeful philanthropy where we work and live, we will be unique in the giving space.  

What sets us apart?
We believe in creating a ripple effect, supporting initiatives that not only bring immediate relief but also generate long-lasting results.  Through innovative investment, collaboration, and partnership, we will bring the hearts and minds of our people to bear on the environmental, social, and economic opportunities and challenges facing where we work, live, and operate.

We invite you to explore our work, meet our team, and discover how we’re making a difference across the globe.

WHO WE ARE

World Group Foundation is a Cleveland, Ohio based registered 501(c)3 private foundation. We make investments in the communities where we work and live with funding from The World Group, a shipping and logistics company that delivers industry leading products in ocean drayage and domestic trucking, freight forwarding/NVOCC, air freight, customs house brokerage, warehousing and distribution, vessel husbandry, and chartering. 

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MIKE FITZGIBBON
Executive Director - World Group Foundation

It is my privilege to lead World Group Foundation on behalf of the Hunger family, World Group employees, and our business and philanthropic partners.  Our goal is to invest in our communities where we work and live.  We will be unique in our giving space because we will bring the hearts and minds of our World Group family to bear on the challenges that our communities face, particularly with respect to the environment.  How will we do it?  By listening to the experts – those who live and work in the places we serve and those nonprofits doing the work daily to make the world a better place for all of us.  I invite you to reach out and share with us the possibilities you see in making a positive impact on our environment by addressing the consequences and future challenges of environmental change. 

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MARILYN HUNGER
Chairman of the Board – World Group Foundation

What a deeply meaningful part of my life it has been to be part of the World Group Foundation. Seven simple words when put together are not only our mission statement, but when acted on can make a positive change in the world: 'We Care For The World We Move'. Listening to and collaborating with our employees and partners will lead us to capture the giving spirit and true heart of our World Group Family. I can’t wait to show the World that we are a company who cares by supporting causes that are meaningful and compelling to all of us and the communities where we work and live.  My personal hope is that the goals, wishes and realization of the full potential of the World Group Foundation will be ever evolving and endless.     

We Care For The World We Move

 

OUR WORK

Our work is divided into three key areas:

Blue World Project

Focused on protecting and restoring marine and freshwater ecosystems, the Blue World Project aims to address environmental challenges by supporting conservation efforts and the impact of climate change on the most vulnerable.

World Relief Program

This program delivers critical aid to World Group communities affected by natural disasters and other crises.

Opportunity Grants

Our discretionary grants allow us to respond quickly to emerging needs and innovative projects.

Blue WORLD Defense

World Group operates across oceans throughout the world. It also operates across the Great Lakes in North America, the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth by total area. In fact, 71% of our Earth is covered by water. Our oceans and our freshwater are our lifeline! With 60% of the human body made up of water, it’s clear that our lives are deeply entwined with the ocean, lakes, and rivers that cover our planet. In particular, the ocean generates every second breath we take.

Despite its vital importance, the ocean has historically received only 7% of environmental funding and less than 1% of philanthropic funding. Though better funded, our freshwater has also lagged in philanthropic support. Through our Blue World Project, we are committed to changing this philanthropic reality by directing critical resources to the communities and causes that protect marine and freshwater science, conservation, and ecosystems upon which we depend and for which we care.

 

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PARTNER WITH US TO DRIVE CHANGE

Grantseekers

Grants are by invitation only.  If you are interested in seeking a grant from World Group Foundation, contact us!

 

Contact Us

FAQ

Do you have an open application process?
How do I apply for a grant?
What geographical areas does the foundation fund?
Do you consider applications from individuals, social enterprises/CICs or community groups? 
Does the foundation offer support, such as loans/investments/ advice?
Do you accept applications by post or email?
Can I submit more than one application?
Can I apply for funding to cover core costs?
Do you give grants for more than one year?
Is there a limit on the size of grant that we can apply for?
Are there deadlines for applications?
If my organization is invited to apply, does that mean we will receive funding from World Group Foundation?
How many stages are there in the application process?
How should I complete the funding request form?
What happens after we have submitted our funding request?
What is the usual timetable for decisions?
Do you meet applicants as part of your evaluation process?
How will I know if my application has not been successful?
Can I request feedback if my application is turned down?
When can an organization re-apply for funding?
How do you make grant payments?
Will I have to sign a contract to receive a grant?
If I receive a grant, do I have to conform to any specific reporting requirements?
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