In a world where global challenges continue to shape the future, the IKEA Foundation stands out with its mission of hope. Founded by Ingvar Kamprad, this non-profit organization has a strong ‘why’—to create a better everyday life for the many people.
In the leadup to IKEA Foundation Week happening October 23-27, the IKEA Foundation is working to improve livelihoods and fight climate change in some of the most vulnerable communities in the world – two things that they cannot do on their own.
Let’s explore their inspiring mission and projects showcasing their dedication to making the world a better place.
What is the IKEA Foundation?
Founded in 1982 by Ingvar Kamprad, the IKEA Foundation is an independent charitable organization committed to creating a positive and lasting impact on communities in need worldwide.
Their ‘Why’: A Better Everyday Life For People
The driving force behind the IKEA Foundation is a simple and profound ‘why’—to create a better everyday life for the many people.
They recognize that access to basic human rights, such as education, health care, and clean water, is crucial in shaping a brighter future for communities in need. With this vision in mind, the foundation focuses on several key areas to make a difference on a global scale.
What Do They Do?
The IKEA Foundation has projects and initiatives aimed at addressing pressing issues like poverty, education, and climate change. Through strategic partnerships and funding, they create a wide range of programs to uplift communities in need and empower individuals.
That vision includes:
Empowering People – The foundation is committed to helping families living in poverty and people who have been forced to flee their homes to build sustainable livelihoods.
Fighting Climate Change – The foundation invests in sustainable initiatives and renewable energy projects to combat climate change, drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and help vulnerable communities adapt to the impact of climate change.
Where Do They Operate?
The IKEA Foundation operates in numerous countries and regions worldwide. They span from Asia to Africa, the EU, India, Brazil and Indonesia, impacting lives in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.
A Transformative Case Study: Sunfunder in Kenya
One inspiring example of the IKEA Foundation’s impact is their work in partnership with SunFunder and InspiraFarms.
Christine Kalekye Mavuti is a farmer in Machakos, Kenya. She grows cabbages, which she takes to market—but if she can’t sell all her produce while it’s fresh, it goes to waste. If you live in a community without reliable access to electricity, like Christine, not having a way to keep produce cold and fresh has a big impact on the farmers’ business as well as the community.
The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation estimates that up to 40% of food in sub-Saharan Africa spoils before it is sold. This can be significantly reduced by keeping produce cool.
Through SunFunder, a solar energy finance company that invests in solar companies in Africa, InspiraFarms has developed a solar-powered cold room and processing system.
Thanks to their work, Christine’s community now has one of these cold rooms, which means more produce stays fresh and can go to market.
“This is a good project because it will economically uplift our village,” says Christine. “It will really help them because they’ll have a market for their produce, so they won’t have crop waste. They’ll get work and earn money and use that money to uplift their homes.”
To find out more about the IKEA Foundation, its partners, and what’s happening during IKEA Foundation Week, visit ikeafoundation.org.
