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 established and well-regarded NGOs (non-governmental organisations) and IGOs (inter-governmental organisations) in order to secure top experts, develop innovative approaches, influence and navigate government policy, and achieve the critical mass it takes to make an impact.
Applying for funding
We do not accept unsolicited proposals.
Guiding principles
Everything we do is guided by these principles:
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Our support should assist people in need, primarily in the developing world, to help them make real and lasting changes in their lives and lead them to take control of their own futures.
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We take a comprehensive approach to areas we support and address various contributing causes of a situation to get better results.
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Programmes should reflect IKEA’s business philosophy of partnership, long-term focus, cost-consciousness, innovation, creativity, constant improvement and strong ethical behaviour.
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We try to be an active partner in everything we do – asking critical questions and, where applicable, sharing unique IKEA expertise with partner organisations.
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We always look to monitor and maximise the return on invested capital and improve the effectiveness and efficiency of our support programmes, so we can be sure we’re doing as much we can for as many people as possible.
Long-term, on-going support
We support a wide range of programmes that address the full circle of fundamental needs that can help people break the cycle of poverty and ultimately take control of their own futures.
We also support pilot projects that can both make an impact now and be a good model for future programmes.
We add our support to existing, ongoing efforts (for example, projects funded via the IKEA stores; Soft Toys for Education campaign), where our contribution helps established educational projects keep making progress.
All programmes are designed to help people help themselves to a better life. They have a definite time limit and are often designed in close co-operation with local and national governments to ensure sustainability.
Short-term support
We sometimes give in-kind donations of IKEA products in an emergency – during or after a disaster, flood, famine, storm, war, drought, disease, earthquakes, etc. Later, we may give financial support for programmes to rebuild and restore necessities and infrastructure.
We work with partner organisations sharing valuable IKEA expertise designed to enhance operational and financial efficiency.
Policies
Our partners have to demonstrate every year that funds have been used properly and according to original intentions.
Concept notes are developed by the partners in close consultation with the Foundation’s administration. The Board decides whether the proposed programmes are within the Foundation’s charter and in line with our expectations for financial and operational efficiency as well as reflecting IKEA core values.
A positive decision by the Board 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.