The Fred C. and Mary R. Koch Foundation

Established 1953

The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in the Flint Hills of Kansas
protects a nationally significant remnant of the once vast tallgrass prairie.
A $1 million grant from the Fred C. and Mary R. Koch Foundation helped
The Nature Conservancy in Kansas complete its acquisition of the nearly
11,000-acre preserve. The foundation provided additional funding for a
documentary film about the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.
Click the image above for a video preview.

Fred C. and Mary R. Koch shared a vision for a prosperous Kansas through the fostering of arts, education, free enterprise, human services and environmental stewardship. Today, the foundation that bears their names is an inspiring reminder that the endeavors of individuals can improve the quality of life for countless others and empower new generations to make their own lasting contributions to society.

Underscoring the foundation's dedication to learning and education, recent gifts have helped fund a diversity program at Kansas State University and programs of the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, which promotes the study of American history. The foundation recognizes that learning can also take place outside a classroom. In Wichita, Kan., foundation funding helped launch the YMCA's Job Prep program that provided teens with job training and job opportunities at local businesses and non-profit organizations.

Grants have also created the world-class Koch Wetlands Exhibit at Cheyenne Bottoms near Great Bend, Kansas. To view a slideshow of this internationally significant wetlands and some of its wildlife, click here.

Fred C. and Mary R. Koch Foundation grants are awarded primarily to charitable organizations as defined in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The foundation focuses its giving in the following areas: 

  • Arts/Arts Education:  Artistic endeavors and educational ventures that stimulate interest in the performing and visual arts.
  • Environmental Stewardship: Science-based environmental education and market-based efforts to improve the environment.
  • Human Services: Programs and organizations that promote dignity and respect to propel others toward success.
  • Enablement of At-Risk Youth: Mentoring and education programs that advance a culture of individual freedom, responsibility and Principled Entrepreneurship™.
  • Education:  Scholarships to qualified students with strong academic records and demonstrated leadership ability.

For more information, visit www.fmkfoundation.org.