Grant and Funding Programs Offered by BNI Foundation (BNI)

BNI Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 1998 by Elisabeth and Dr. Ivan Misner, the creators of Business Network International (BNI). Its purpose is to improve educational opportunities for children and young people around the world. Working with a network of more than 355,000 entrepreneurs in BNI chapters globally, the foundation channels charitable giving and volunteer engagement into concrete support for schools and educational organizations.

The foundation focuses on underserved, underprivileged and endangered children, based on the belief that while children are only 20% of the population, they represent 100% of our future. Its funding aims to enhance classrooms and learning environments, strengthen student engagement and benefit as many children as possible.

The flagship program is the Givers Gain Grants scheme. These grants are normally for USD 1,000 or the local equivalent and are funded from donations. They are available to educational organizations that make a lasting impact on students’ futures. Grants are awarded twice per year, with open application windows of about four weeks in the spring and fall.

The foundation uses clear eligibility criteria: applicants must be schools or educational organizations with a primary focus on children’s education and a relationship with a BNI Director, chapter, member or Business Voices team. Grants must fund projects that improve the learning environment and benefit multiple students, classrooms or instructors. The BNI Foundation’s Board of Directors reviews applications and allocates grants based on demand and available funds.

Beyond monetary support, the foundation runs the Business Voices initiative, which mobilizes BNI members to donate time, talent, knowledge and experience to local schools and youth organizations. It also coordinates Future Leaders Week, during which BNI professionals offer career orientation, networking tips and exposure to entrepreneurship for students aged 15–18 through partnerships with local schools.

To secure long-term funding, the Misner Endowment Fund was launched in 2019. Seeded by the Misner family and expanded through Misner Fellows at various giving levels, the endowment’s earnings are intended to sustain BNI Foundation grants and programs for future generations.

BNI Foundation operates internationally through affiliates that may hold their own non-profit status and make grants within their countries. Since its creation, the foundation reports having raised and distributed millions of dollars in grants and supported numerous projects such as classroom resources, educational programs and post-disaster learning initiatives. Stories and impact blogs on the site highlight past grantees, partnerships and the results of funded projects.