A new $200 million investment by the John Deere Foundation will now be put toward new initiatives over the next 10 years to bring the company’s higher purpose to life: “We run so life can leap forward.” The commitment builds on the foundation’s long-standing legacy of philanthropy.
As a part of its 10-year commitment, the foundation will invest $100 million in families and young adults who work, live, and learn in Deere’s home communities. The goal is to provide them with access to the resources and educational opportunities they need to be self-sufficient. In addition, annual investments of $2 million in food banks will provide approximately 100 million meals over the next decade.
A total of $50 million will go toward farmers throughout the world to help them make a living, feed the global population, and reduce inequality within the industry. Finally, $50 million will also be put toward Deere’s workforce to further mobilize and build upon its volunteer talents.
"The urgency of running today with the vision of a better tomorrow is John Deere at our core," said John May, Chairman and CEO of Deere & Company and Chairman of the John Deere Foundation. "The Foundation's financial commitment holds true to this purpose by investing deeply in the people we serve to overcome the challenges they face today and create for themselves paths to a more prosperous tomorrow."
Since its founding back in 1948, the John Deere Foundation has awarded over $340 million in grants. The foundation’s goals align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and it will track and report investments against relevant targets and indicators.