The mission of the Corning Incorporated Foundation is to improve the quality of life in communities by supporting programs in education, human services, and culture. The Foundation aims to make a significant impact by focusing on three main categories: enhancing educational opportunities, especially in STEM and STEAM areas; providing support for basic human needs and wellness, particularly for at-risk youth; and promoting arts and culture to foster creativity and community engagement.
The Corning Incorporated Foundation grant program is geared toward supporting non-profit organizations that align with the Foundation's focus areas: education, human services, and culture. For education, the emphasis is on STEM and STEAM curricula, as well as workforce development that can open productive career paths for young adults. This includes bringing STEM experiences to K-12 students and enhancing STEM education at higher educational levels, coupled with integrating arts into STEM learning. In the realm of human services, the Foundation backs initiatives addressing basic needs like food, shelter, and water, especially targeting at-risk youth, and supports health and wellness education. Additionally, the program aids in disaster recovery and aiding communities in pressing needs. The cultural component of the grants supports programs that increase awareness and appreciation of the arts and culture, ensuring the stability and sustainability of local arts and cultural organizations. Eligible grantees range from accredited educational institutions to community and youth organizations, as well as arts groups, historical societies, museums, and libraries. The grant process welcomes applications on a rolling basis, encouraging early submissions within the grant cycle, and is open to non-profits invited by Foundation staff or a grant team member, although organizations meeting the Foundation's criteria can introduce themselves via email for consideration.