We get the best results by working with partners who know the most about the areas we want to support. We support programmes managed by knowledgeable, innovative and well-regarded organisations that are experts in their fields.

Applying for funding

We do not accept unsolicited proposals.

Our principles

Our grant making is guided by our operating principles:

• We create relationships based on trust.
• We create the highest value possible with our resources.
• We cut through complexity in all our processes.
• We institutionalise learning and knowledge sharing.
• We engage in transparent collaboration.
• We dare to take risks and sometimes be the rebel in the sector.
• We aim to live up to the standards that we are promoting.

Grant making process

The IKEA Foundation Board of Directors is our ultimate decision-making body. The board has five seats and each board member has one vote. The board may delegate their authority to approve grants to internal committees within the IKEA Foundation with rigorous reporting requirements to ensure that grants can be approved in the most effective and responsible manner. 

Concept notes and proposals are developed by the partners in close consultation with the Foundation’s grant making team. The Board or delegated decision-making bodies decide whether the proposed programmes are within the Foundation’s charter and in line with our expectations for financial and operational efficiency, impact, as well as reflecting our core values.

A positive decision will require development of a detailed programme proposal, focused on creating a baseline, setting programme objectives and establishing key performance indicators that will be used to measure annual progress and ultimate programme achievement. Our partners have to demonstrate that funds have been used properly and according to original intentions, and our Board is involved in reviewing the results of the grant.