
The I&M Foundation, the philanthropic arm of I&M Bank, is celebrating its fifth anniversary this year with a renewed focus on driving sustainable societal impact. Since its inception, the Foundation has been a catalyst for economic growth, social progress, and environmental conservation, demonstrating the power of purpose-driven philanthropy to create shared value for all stakeholders.
This dedication to sustainable development is deeply aligned with I&M Bank’s core values. I&M Bank, as the only bank in Kenya allocating 2% of its Profit before Tax (PBT) annually to the Foundation, has strategically linked its financial success to the betterment of society. This substantial and consistent investment is crucial to the Foundation’s ability to enact impactful programs across various sectors.
Read: I&M Bank Launches Buy Now Pay Later Service
The Foundation’s work centers around four key pillars: Environmental Conservation, Education and Skills Development, Economic Empowerment, and Enabling Giving. These strategic focus areas guide their work in addressing societal challenges with concrete, measurable goals. To date, the Foundation has disbursed over KES 500 million toward educational initiatives spanning primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, providing vital resources and scholarships to more than 7,000 learners. Furthermore, it has supported hundreds of environmental conservation projects, contributing to the restoration of over 100 hectares of degraded land.
The I&M Foundation doesn’t simply offer charitable handouts; it focuses on creating lasting, transformational change. Through its Economic Empowerment pillar, the Foundation has supported over 500 small and medium enterprises (SMEs), assisting them in scaling their operations and creating new jobs within local communities. These endeavors have spurred local economies and empowered individuals with sustainable livelihoods. Similarly, educational initiatives are designed to improve literacy and vocational skills, equipping young people with the means to secure meaningful employment in a rapidly evolving world.
Read: I&M Group Appoints New Executive General Manager of Human Resources
Central to the Foundation’s achievements is a commitment to engaging and collaborating with a diverse group of stakeholders. The Foundation, by prioritizing early, inclusive dialogues with community members, local leaders, and other key stakeholders, ensures that its initiatives are directly tailored to meet the most pressing needs within communities. This transparent approach also includes regular updates and reports, fostering trust and accountability among all partners.
The Foundation’s success is bolstered by its partnerships with governments, non-profits, and community leaders. These collaborations leverage the combined expertise and resources needed to scale the impact of programs, reach more people, and implement interventions more effectively. The Foundation’s approach embodies a more holistic strategy for meeting community needs, ultimately working towards sustainable and long-term development.