Quick Summary
Name: Union Pacific Foundation Status: Active Grant Maker
Key Facts
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Annual Giving | $10.2 million (2024) |
| Grant Range | $5,000 - $30,000 (local grants); up to $700,000 (national/regional grants) |
| Average Grant | $10,000 |
| Application Method | Fixed Deadline (local grants) / Invitation Only (national/regional grants) |
Contact Details
- Website: https://www.up.com/aboutup/community/foundation/
- Email: upf@up.com
- Phone: (402) 544-5600
- Address: 1400 Douglas St., Stop 1560, Omaha, NE 68179
Geographic Focus
The Union Pacific Foundation funds communities across a 23-state network, primarily in the western and midwestern United States where Union Pacific Railroad operates. Organizations must be located in or serve communities where Union Pacific has operations and employees live and work. Over 50 cities/regions are eligible across the network.
Funding Priorities
- Safety: Emergency response organizations and safety-focused programs
- Workforce Development: Programs creating pathways to employment, building foundational skills (especially STEM), establishing technical and life skills, and providing mentorship
- Community Vitality: Cultural and recreational experiences, community spaces
- Environmental Sustainability: Programs advancing environmental health, natural habitats, ecosystems, and biodiversity
What They Don't Fund
- Private foundations or disqualified supporting organizations
- Social, labor, alumni, and fraternal organizations
- Professional and amateur sports events, organizations, and teams
- Event sponsorships, fundraising events and campaigns (galas, golf tournaments, auctions, telethons, etc.)
- Endowments and memorial campaigns
- Organizations requiring fiscal sponsors
- Religious organizations unless they have a separate 501(c)(3) and serve the general public regardless of religious affiliation
- Organizations that have received three consecutive years of local grants (must wait one year)
Application Method
Local Grants Program ($5,000-$30,000):
- Annual application cycle with fixed deadline (typically mid-May)
- Online application through Blackbaud YourCause GrantsConnect software
- Eligibility questionnaire required first, then full application
- One application per organization per year
- Deadline: 3:00 PM Central Time on May 14, 2025
National/Regional Grants (larger amounts):
- Invitation only
References
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