The AGC Education Foundation Is Exclusively Focused on Washington’s Construction Industry
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Philanthropic foundations stem from many different sources, including wealthy families, community activist groups and healthcare institution mergers. But rarer are the foundations formed by professional associations in particular industries. These niche funders don’t often make it onto the radar of local nonprofits, but here’s one in Washington that’s active and well-established. The AGC Education Foundation has been operating since 1980 and prioritizes construction-related funding through grants, scholarships, education and outreach.
The parent organization
Members of Associated General Contractors of Washington created the AGC Education Foundation to support lifelong learning for construction career professionals. Headquartered in Seattle, AGC of Washington has over 600 member companies and addresses labor relations, safety, government affairs, leadership and continuing education. It is one of 89 chapters of AGC of America.
Local giving
The foundation’s grant program accepts applications for efforts to raise awareness of construction career pathways, focusing on children as young as kindergarteners all the way through young professionals in their 20s. The funder prioritizes proposals that utilize volunteers and incorporate matching funds. An online grant application is available on the foundation’s website.
The AGC Education Foundation also has a scholarship program that supports students in Washington’s technical schools, community colleges and universities. Meanwhile, the foundation also pursues workforce development efforts including mentorship programs, career days, externships and adventure camps.
Goals for the next generation
The AGC Education Foundation wants to get the word out about high-paying jobs in the construction industry. It is a goal of the foundation to attract the next generation of construction professionals in the state and train them to be the best in the business. With the help of this foundation, industry experts teach construction leadership courses that include actual jobsite experiences and promotional advancements with accumulated experience. AGC offers nearly 297 classes annually and trains more than 2,000 students per year.
Learn more about the AGC Education Foundation in IP’s full profile of this funder, which is part of our Washington Grants for Nonprofits Guide.
