Swarovski Foundation

The Swarovski Foundation, a UK-registered charity established in 2013 by Nadja Swarovski, honors the philanthropic vision of founder Daniel Swarovski by promoting sustainable livelihoods through education to reduce inequality and drive global change. Chaired by Marisa Schiestl-Swarovski, it embodies the brand's heritage of innovation, care, and values like inclusivity, collaboration, creativity, and empowerment. Focused on three pillars—Equity (gender equality, youth empowerment, education), Water (sustainability, conservation, community engagement), and Creativity (creative education, talent development)—it supports initiatives advancing UN Sustainable Development Goals via signature programs like Waterschool, empowering youth as water ambassadors worldwide, and Creatives for Our Future, a UN-partnered mentorship and grant scheme for emerging creatives tackling sustainability challenges.

Funding targets young people, marginalized communities, women, and creative practitioners through project grants, educational programs, environmental conservation, sustainable fashion, crafts, and culture. Examples include Teach For Austria, UNICEF Austria, WWF India, and Whitechapel Gallery. While partnerships reach 93+ countries with systemic impact, the Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications from organizations; its sole open call is Creatives for Our Future, open globally to individuals aged 21-30 (no nationality/residency restrictions, must travel to USA).

Grants award €20,000 (approx. £17,000–£18,000) to six individuals per cohort for original creative projects advancing sustainability, covering project costs, mentoring, and development—not university fees or core operations. Applications via online form (with portfolio, video, references) ran September–October 2024; next expected Fall 2026. It excludes general operating costs, non-aligned causes, and organizational core/capital grants, distinguishing itself through family-led, cross-sectoral expertise, collaborative partnerships (reaching 2M+ people via 85 initiatives), and a focus on scalable, evidence-based innovation over isolated efforts.