The Nicholas B. Ottaway Foundation is dedicated to fostering positive change in communities and impacting lives through its philanthropic efforts. The foundation operates through three primary channels: The Community Impact Fund, The Education Committee, and the Journalism Committee, aiming to address and support unique causes within these areas to enhance overall community well-being and opportunities.
The Journalism Committee of the NBO Foundation focuses on enhancing the quality of journalism across various forms and defending freedom of the press globally. They offer grants for journalism programs or projects, including contributions to American journalism schools, investigative journalism projects, new local and state-wide news websites, and international press freedom groups. They also support organizations that protect journalists in danger due to civil wars and authoritarian regimes.