Mars, Incorporated has announced the launch of the Mars Impact Fund, a new philanthropic platform that will seek to ‘accelerate meaningful and lasting impact’ in the communities where the food giant operates.
The company has committed $85 million to the fund for the period from 2025 to 2027, and from 2028 onward, it plans to distribute at least $50 million each year in additional philanthropic capital.
Impact agenda
“The Mars Impact Fund builds on decades of partnership and investment in the communities where we operate, strengthening and scaling the work already underway,” commented Andy Pharoah, vice president of corporate affairs and sustainability.
“It is designed to complement our broader impact agenda to benefit people, pets, and the planet and help us deepen relationships with organisations working to create lasting impact.”
The Mars Impact Fund will focus on three priority areas aligned with the company’s activities – firstly, it will support farm families and communities in improving their livelihoods, wellbeing, and resilience; secondly, it will expand and diversify the pipeline of opportunities for scientists, especially in food, agriculture, and pet care; and thirdly, it will increase access to veterinary care and support for pets in under-resourced homes and communities.
In addition, the Fund will lead Mars‘ response to large-scale disasters affecting its business, as well as its employees, and communities.
‘Deep expertise and local insight’
“Change starts with listening, learning and working alongside the communities we serve,” commented Michelle Grogg, executive director, Mars Impact Fund. “Through the Mars Impact Fund, we’re partnering with organisations that bring deep expertise and local insight so that, together, we can expand opportunity, strengthen resilience, and improve lives for people and pets around the world.”
Initial grans have been awarded to two organisations. with Save the Children receiving a $3 million grant to expand Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) and strengthen community resilience programmes in Indonesia, and Humane World for Animals receiving $726,000 to expand access to veterinary care and training in India and Mexico.
“We’re grateful for our long-standing partnership with Mars, grounded in our shared commitment to children and communities,” added Janti Soeripto, president and CEO of Save the Children US. Read more here.
