Wabtec Direct Grant Program

The Wabtec Direct Grant Program focuses on creating sustainable impacts in local communities by funding 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. Emphasizing education and environmental stewardship, the program supports initiatives that improve literacy, academic outcomes, and workforce readiness. Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000, prioritizing organizations that engage local Wabtec employees in volunteerism. The program promotes equitable access and non-discrimination while ensuring measurable results in funded projects.

DIRECT GRANTS: Local grants for our communities
One way we connect with our communities is through local grants. Funding should focus on a local community where Wabtec has operations and, where possible, incorporate opportunities to engage local Wabtec employees in volunteerism. The Wabtec Foundation will give preference to non-profits that strategically focus on Education and the Environment. Organizations where Wabtec employees are currently engaged are also preferred. Grants are awarded only to organizations that do not discriminate based on religion, ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation.
Funding Impact Areas
Any qualifying organizations may apply for a grant; however, the Wabtec Foundation will give preference to non-profits that strategically focus on Education and the Environment.
Education
The Foundation supports programs that achieve a measurable knowledge increase, improvement in academic progress, or employment outcomes for individuals. Access to a quality education – particularly in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math -- contributes to business growth and builds strong economies. We aim to invest in holistic programs that focus on:
Literacy – Providing individuals with the foundational knowledge to flourish as fully participating members of society (all ages).Improving Academic Outcomes – Ensuring individuals excel in and complete their K-12 academic programs (with a focus on community organizations offering afterschool and summer programs).Financial Literacy – Providing the understanding of key financial systems to promote successful behaviors in the modern economy.Workforce Readiness – Obtaining the skills and training needed to find and maintain quality employment.Global entrepreneurship – Advancing women and minority organizations globally through training and increased access to resources, capital and new markets. Advocacy – Advocate for providing access to – and improving the quality of – education.
Environment
Natural resource management – in economic growth and development. Reducing pollution Advocacy – Provide education about restoring natural infrastructure, as well as the enforcement of existing laws.
Levels of Funding and Review Process
Grants typically range from $1,000-$10,000, depending on scope and scale of program. Funding should focus on a local community where Wabtec has operations and, where possible, incorporate opportunities to engage local Wabtec employees in volunteerism. Organizations where Wabtec employees are currently engaged are preferred.
Organizations will not be considered for funding more than one time per calendar year.

Eligibility

Qualifying CriteriaThe Wabtec Foundation supports only registered, nonprofit, tax exempt 501(c)(3), charitable organizations (or the equivalent outside of the United States) that:Are nondiscriminatory in their policies and practices with regards to physical abilities, ngender, race, age, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, and/or creedDemonstrate program sustainability and measurable results

Ineligibility

The Foundation does not award grants to:Capital investment, including construction, renovation or other equipment purchasesIndividuals and/or to private elementary and secondary schoolsPolitical or religious campaignsOrganizations classified by the IRS as a church or religious organization (i.e. church-related commitments, tithes, etc.)MemorialsSpecial events, such as galas, conferences, fundraisers, golf events/sports competitions, symposiums, or art exhibitsActivities of organizations serving primarily their own membershipOrganizations or projects in countries with which the U.S. government restricts business dealingsAdvertisements or the production of any marketing or promotional materials (T-shirts, posters, flyers)