INTRODUCING THE FIRST COHORT OF GRANTEES
FOUNDING DONORS
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FUND
SIERRA LEONE
Antonio Rüdiger Foundation
Sports & addressing barriers to learning
The Antonio Rüdiger Foundation is a global nonprofit focused on expanding educational access and empowering youth through sport and community development. With a strong presence in Sierra Leone, the foundation combines football-based programs with education, health support, and infrastructure development. Its work aims to create opportunities for children to learn, grow, and overcome barriers to success, particularly in underserved communities.
RWANDA
Autisme Rwanda
Sports & addressing barriers to learning
Autisme Rwanda is an organization dedicated to supporting children with autism and their families through education, therapy, and advocacy. By providing specialized programs and raising awareness, it promotes inclusion and improves quality of life for individuals with autism. Its work plays a critical role in challenging stigma and expanding access to care and education in Rwanda.
USA
Beyond Soccer
Sports & academic tutoring
Beyond Soccer is a Massachusetts-based youth development organization that uses soccer as a gateway to academic success, leadership, and career readiness. Serving a predominantly low-income, Hispanic community, it provides a continuum of support from childhood through early adulthood. By combining athletics with education and mentorship, Beyond Soccer creates pathways for long-term opportunity and community impact.
CANADA
Canada SCORES
After school tutoring for low income communities
Canada SCORES is a youth development charity that integrates soccer, poetry, and education to inspire children in underserved communities. Through free afterschool programs, the organization promotes physical health, literacy, and social-emotional learning while empowering youth to express themselves and become leaders. By combining creativity and sport, Canada SCORES helps young people build confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose.
SOUTH AFRICA
Eduplex
Addressing barriers to learning amongst deaf learners
Eduplex is an innovative South African school recognized internationally for its inclusive education model, integrating deaf and hearing students in a mainstream learning environment. Through advanced auditory-verbal therapy and technology-supported learning, the school enables deaf learners to develop spoken language skills and fully participate in academic and social life. Eduplex’s approach fosters independence, inclusion, and equal opportunity, preparing all students to thrive in society.
SOUTH AFRICA
Eland School
Addressing access for low income learners
Eland School is a South Africa-based educational initiative dedicated to providing culturally grounded, high-quality early education for Khomani San children. Blending formal curriculum with indigenous knowledge, language preservation, and community engagement, the school nurtures both academic development and cultural identity. Through programs that support students, families, and youth empowerment, Eland School plays a vital role in strengthening education and opportunity in a remote and underserved community.
ETHIOPIA
Emmanuel Development Association (EDA)
Addressing access for low income learners
EDA is an Ethiopian nonprofit committed to improving the lives of vulnerable communities through sustainable, community-led development. Its programs span education, health, child protection, and livelihoods, reaching millions across the country. By integrating education with sport and community engagement, EDA promotes long-term empowerment and resilience among children and families.
USA
Field of Dreams Academy
Sports & STEM access for girls
Field of Dreams Academy is a sports-based youth development nonprofit focused on empowering underserved youth through education, athletics, and leadership development. Integrating STEM learning with sports programs, the organization fosters confidence, purpose, and academic achievement. Its mission is to equip young people with the tools and opportunities needed to become transformative leaders in their communities.
COLOMBIA
Fundación El Origen
Access to education for lower income communities
Fundación El Origen is a Colombian nonprofit focused on transforming education through technology, gamification, and innovative learning models. By making education interactive and relevant, the organization helps underserved youth build academic, social, and professional skills. Its programs bridge the gap between education and employment, empowering young people to access meaningful career opportunities.
COLOMBIA
Fundación Karis
Addressing access to learning for lower income communities
Fundación Karis is a Colombia-based nonprofit committed to transforming lives through access to quality education in communities affected by poverty, displacement, and social exclusion. Through its flagship school, Liceo Nueva Vida, the organization delivers a holistic educational model that integrates academic excellence, values-based learning, nutrition, and psychosocial support. By working closely with families and communities, Fundación Karis creates safe, inclusive environments where children can learn, grow, and break cycles of inequality.
COLOMBIA
Fundación Tiempo de Juego
Addressing education access for low income learners
Fundación Tiempo de Juego is a Colombian nonprofit that uses play and sport as tools for social transformation and youth empowerment. Operating in vulnerable communities, the organization combines football, arts, and technology with non-formal education to foster leadership, resilience, and life skills. By creating safe and structured spaces, Tiempo de Juego helps children and adolescents avoid violence and build positive pathways for their futures while strengthening community cohesion.
CANADA
Grand River Friendship Society
Addressing barriers to learning & mental health support
Grand River Friendship Society is a Canadian charity supporting newcomer and low-income families through education, mentorship, and community programs. By combining academic support, sports, and mental health services, the organization fosters inclusion and belonging. Its work empowers youth to overcome barriers and succeed in their educational journeys.
USA
Hit the Books
Sports & after school tutoring
Hit the Books is a New York-based nonprofit that uses a sports-centered approach to drive academic success and youth development. Combining tutoring, mentorship, and Mixed Martial Arts training, the organization creates a dynamic afterschool environment where students build literacy, math skills, and physical confidence. Serving underserved communities, Hit the Books empowers youth to pursue their goals by integrating education, discipline, and personal growth into a cohesive and engaging program model.
CANADA
Ignite Durham Learning Foundation
Addressing barriers to learning
Ignite Durham Learning Foundation is a Canadian nonprofit dedicated to removing poverty-related barriers to education. By providing essential resources such as food, clothing, and financial assistance, the organization ensures that students can fully engage in their learning. Working closely with schools and communities, Ignite Durham supports the well-being, stability, and long-term success of students facing socioeconomic challenges.
BRASIL
Instituto Rede Tênis Brasil
Addressing social and economic barriers to learning and sports
Rede Tênis Brasil is a nonprofit organization that uses tennis and education to create opportunities for youth in underserved communities. By offering free training, academic support, and pathways for talent development, the organization promotes inclusion, discipline, and personal growth. Its programs empower young people to pursue education and build brighter futures.
SOUTH AFRICA
Knysna Education Trust
Addressing access for low income learners
The Knysna Education Trust is a long-standing South African nonprofit focused on improving early childhood development for children in marginalized communities. Through training, resources, and support for educators and preschools, the organization builds strong foundations for lifelong learning. Its holistic approach—combining nutrition, infrastructure, and mentorship—ensures that young children receive the care and stimulation needed to succeed academically and socially.
CANADA
MLSE Foundation
Addressing barriers to sports
MLSE Foundation is the charitable arm of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, focused on advancing equity through sport and youth development. By investing in community infrastructure and evidence-based programming, the foundation creates opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and succeed. Its flagship initiatives integrate physical activity with education, mental health, and career readiness to support holistic youth development.
USA
Our Bright Future, Inc.
STEAM access
Our Bright Future, Inc. is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth through holistic education and enrichment programming. Serving over 750 students annually across 14 communities, the organization provides STEAM education, financial literacy, health and wellness, and life-skills development to children facing economic hardship and limited access to opportunity. Through safe, supportive, and engaging environments, Our Bright Future equips young people with the confidence, leadership skills, and academic foundation needed to thrive and build brighter futures.
USA
School on Wheels
Addressing barriers to education for children experiencing homelessness
School on Wheels is a U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting the educational needs of children experiencing homelessness. Through tutoring, mentorship, and access to essential resources, the organization helps students overcome instability and succeed academically. Its programs provide continuity, support, and hope for children facing some of the most challenging circumstances.
USA
Scientiae
Stem & Sports - Afterschool programs
Scientiae, Inc. is a U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to expanding equitable access to STEM education for underserved youth. Through hands-on learning, community partnerships, and innovative programming, the organization integrates science, technology, and sports-inspired activities to foster academic achievement and personal growth. Scientiae empowers young people with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
JAPAN
SDGs Promise Japan
Addressing barriers to learning
SDGs Promise Japan is a Tokyo-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing global sustainable development and reducing poverty in underserved communities, particularly across Africa. Founded in 2008 as Millennium Promise Japan, the organization emerged from international efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals and has since evolved to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a global framework to end poverty, reduce inequality, and promote sustainable growth. Guided by the principle of “leaving no one behind,” SDGs Promise Japan implements community-based development initiatives that integrate education, economic empowerment, and capacity building.
SOUTH AFRICA
Skateistan South Africa
Skateboarding and creative education
Skateistan South Africa is part of a global NGO that uses skateboarding and creative education to empower youth in underserved communities. By combining physical activity with learning and life-skills development, the organization creates safe spaces where young people—especially girls—can build confidence, resilience, and leadership. Its programs promote inclusion, educational engagement, and personal growth, helping youth navigate social and economic challenges.
USA
SMILE Mass
Addressing barriers to inclusive adaptive sports and education
SMILE Mass is a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities through inclusive recreation, education-adjacent programming, and community engagement. Its programs focus on adaptive sports, movement, and social development, helping participants build confidence, independence, and lifelong skills. By removing barriers to participation, SMILE Mass fosters inclusion and belonging for individuals and families.
USA
SparkWheel
Addressing barriers to learning (nutrition support)
SparkWheel is a U.S.-based nonprofit providing integrated student support services to help young people overcome barriers to education. By placing dedicated coordinators in schools, the organization delivers personalized support addressing academic, social, and basic needs. Through its holistic, relationship-based model, SparkWheel helps students stay engaged, succeed in school, and build brighter futures.
USA
Street Soccer USA
Addressing barriers to sports and academic support
Street Soccer USA is a national nonprofit that uses soccer as a tool to fight poverty and strengthen communities. Through free programs that combine sport, education, and life-skills training, the organization supports youth and individuals facing homelessness and economic hardship. Its community-based approach empowers participants to build confidence, achieve goals, and access new opportunities.
JAPAN
Ubuntu FS
Addressing barriers to learning for children with disabilities
Ubuntu FS (UBUNTU FS Promotion General Incorporated Association) is a community-driven organization dedicated to fostering inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable local development through the power of sports, culture, and social engagement. Rooted in the philosophy of Ubuntu – “I am because we are” – the organization emphasizes collective growth, mutual support, and the strengthening of human connections as the foundation for thriving communities. Headquartered in Kitakyushu, Japan, Ubuntu FS operates as a multifaceted social initiative that brings together athletic, cultural, and welfare-oriented programs under one unified mission: to build healthier, more connected societies. At its core, the organization leverages sports as a central platform for community building, youth development, and social inclusion.
MEXICO
YMCA Mexico
Addressing barriers to learning and sports for girls
YMCA Mexico is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening individuals and communities through education, health, and sports-based programs. Its initiatives promote holistic development—mind, body, and spirit—while empowering youth, particularly girls, to build leadership skills and access new opportunities. With decades of impact, the organization continues to drive inclusive and sustainable community development.
