Fortescue Foundation
About
Fortescue Foundation is the corporate giving and community investment arm of Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG), one of Australia's largest iron ore miners. The foundation manages the company's social investment portfolio, focusing on First Nations partnerships, community development, education, and environmental sustainability initiatives across Western Australia.
Tips for Applicants
As a corporate foundation tied to a major mining company, Fortescue prioritizes partnerships that align with their operational footprint in WA and their First Nations economic empowerment goals. The Billion Opportunities program is their flagship initiative for Indigenous businesses - applicants should demonstrate clear community benefit and long-term sustainability. Direct approaches through their sustainability/community relations team are more effective than formal grant applications for larger partnerships.
Giving Philosophy
Fortescue integrates social investment into its core business strategy, viewing philanthropy as integral to its 'Real Zero' sustainability commitment. The company believes in creating shared value through direct community partnerships, workforce development, and economic opportunities for First Nations peoples. Their approach emphasizes long-term relationships, capacity building, and measurable outcomes rather than one-off charitable donations.
Notable Grants
Giving History
Programs & Opportunities (4)
4 open · sorted by deadline · last checked 23 June 2026 (1 day ago)
Fortescue Innovation Grants Program
This program offers grants to not-for-profit and community organisations in the Pilbara region for innovative and practical sustainability-focused projects, including those related to environment, sustainable innovations, education, green technologies, and renewable energy.
Fortescue Community Grants Program
This program provides funding for local not-for-profit, sporting, recreation, and community organisations in the Pilbara region of Western Australia for projects focused on education, quality of life, healthy living, Indigenous capacity building, youth development, community safety, and environmental responsibility.
Billion Opportunities Program
An initiative launched in 2011 to promote sustainable business opportunities for Aboriginal people by encouraging joint venture partnerships and awarding contracts and sub-contracts to Aboriginal businesses and joint venture partners. It also includes a funding scheme in partnership with ANZ to help eligible Aboriginal businesses access finance.
MADALAH Scholarship Program (supported by Fortescue)
Fortescue supports the MADALAH Scholarship Program, which provides secondary and tertiary scholarships for First Nations students, offering financial support, mentorship, and access to a strong community of peers to foster intergenerational change and empower the next generation of First Nations leaders.