Special to the Times-Free Press
The Boston-based New Balance Foundation (NBF) announced $9.2 million in grants to 52 nonprofit organizations serving the Merrimack Valley and Greater Boston as part of its 2025–2026 grant cycle. In line with its mission to build vibrant communities and brighter futures through sport, the Foundation’s funding will support programs that build a culture of health and foster positive youth development through physical activity, education, career readiness and enrichment.
This latest round of funding underscores NBF’s long-standing commitment to the social and economic well-being of the communities where New Balance associates live and work.
“In line with our mission, we’re dedicated to supporting the communities our associates call home,” said Anne Davis, Managing Trustee of New Balance Foundation. “The children and families in these communities are in our backyard, and we’re proud to invest in organizations and initiatives that play a critical role in shaping the lives of young people across the state. This is a true testament to the values on which NBF was founded.”
Massachusetts Grant Recipients (2025–2026 Cycle) that included local organizations receiving support: America SCORES New England; Fresh Truck; and Harlem Lacrosse.
Long-Term Commitment to Community Impact
Since 1981, NBF has invested more than $90 million in local nonprofits serving Metro Boston, Lawrence, and Methuen. In 2025 alone, the Foundation granted over $17 million across 12 countries, surpassing $165 million in philanthropic investments over 40+ years of giving.
In addition to their annual community grants listed above, NBF made contributions towards transformative community projects through its enduring gifts pillar, including:
• A $100 million commitment to Massachusetts General Hospital to support the construction of the West Tower of the Phillip and Susan Ragon Building, which will anchor Mass General Brigham’s world-class heart and vascular care to be named The New Balance Foundation Tower
• Completed renovation of Lawrence’s O’Connell South Common Park
The New Balance Foundation (NBF) invests in vibrant communities and bright futures through sport. Since 1981, New Balance Foundation has invested in proven pathways to help young people achieve their goals. Our grantmaking focuses on community-led, outcomes-driven initiatives that promote access to sport, educational support, career readiness, and overall well-being. We have granted over $165 million USD to date to trailblazing non-profits across the globe. This includes more than $17 million USD in donations to 95 non-profits in 2025 alone. Learn more about New Balance Foundation at https://www.newbalance.com/new-balance-foundation/our-mission/.
New Balance, headquartered in Boston, MA, has the following purpose: Independent since 1906, we empower people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. New Balance employs 10,000 associates around the globe, and in 2024 reported worldwide sales of $7.8 billion. New Balance owns five athletic footwear factories in New England and one in Flimby, U.K. New Balance MADE U.S. footwear contains a domestic value of 70% or more and makes up a limited portion of New Balance’s U.S. sales. To learn more about New Balance, please visit www.newbalance.com; for the latest press information visit http://newbalance.newsmarket.com.