Mazda Foundation Awards $586,361 in 2026 Grants to Support Community Programs

Irvine, Calif. – February 17, 2026 – The Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc. Has announced $586,361 in grant funding for 2026, supporting nine nonprofit partners that deliver critical programs in food security, education and STEM, and workforce development across communities where Mazda operates. This investment reinforces the Foundation’s commitment to long-term partnerships that create opportunities and strengthen community resilience.

“Each of these grants reflects our commitment to investing in programs that create lasting opportunity although deepening the connection between Mazda employees and the communities where we live and perform,” said Tamara Mlynarczyk, manager of public affairs for Mazda North American Operations and president of Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc. “These organizations offer valuable volunteer and internship opportunities that inspire our employees and strengthen our shared impact.”

Focus on Food Security

Food security remains a core pillar of the Mazda Foundation’s philanthropic mission. In 2026, the Foundation celebrates over 20 years of partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank in Irvine, California, continuing their joint effort to combat hunger and support families facing hardship throughout Southern California.

Expanding Access to Education and STEM

The Mazda Foundation is strengthening its investment in programs that expand student access, stimulate curiosity, and develop the skills needed for future careers in education and STEM. Ongoing support includes partnerships with FUSE Studios in schools across the Chicago metropolitan area and Huntsville, Alabama, and AVID programs in Brooklyn, New York, and Harris County, Texas. The Foundation will as well continue its commitments to the Robotics Competition and Education Foundation in Huntsville, Alabama, and College Track LA in Los Angeles, to further support pathways to academic success and preparation for the workforce.

Workforce Development Initiatives

Mazda Foundation’s 2026 workforce development portfolio includes both returning and new partners. Vehicles for Change (Halethorpe, Maryland) and Bracken’s Kitchen (Garden Grove, California) will continue to help individuals develop job skills and secure sustainable employment. New collaborations with Working Wardrobes (Santa Ana, California) and the American Cancer Society (Irvine, California) expand the foundation’s reach and support new avenues for worker-centered programs.

Through these grants, the Mazda Foundation reaffirms its commitment to long-term, community-focused partnerships that create measurable impact, while offering Mazda employees valuable ways to contribute through volunteering.

About Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc.

As the corporate foundation of Mazda North American Operations (MNAO), the Mazda Foundation has donated more than $16 million since 1992 to children’s organizations, educational scholarships, food banks, environmental programs, and disaster relief initiatives. More information about the Mazda Foundation can be found at www.mazdafoundation.org.