Graco Foundation Marks Company’s Centennial with $1 Million Commitment to Minnesota Nonprofits

Centennial initiative provides $100,000 grants to 10 organizations supporting self-sufficiency and workforce development in Twin Cities communities.

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In celebration of Graco’s 100th anniversary, the Graco Foundation announced a $1 million Centennial Impact Initiative to support 10 Minnesota nonprofit organizations advancing self-sufficiency, stability and workforce development, including technical training and career pathways aligned with Minnesota’s manufacturing and industrial workforce needs.

Through the initiative, each nonprofit partner will receive a $100,000 grant to commemorate Graco’s centennial anniversary. The grants are designed to strengthen long-term stability and expand the impact of organizations that help individuals build skills, access technical training and prepare for careers in manufacturing, skilled trades and other high-demand fields. Many of these organizations play an important role in developing Graco’s future workforce and supporting the communities where Graco employees live and work.

The 10 nonprofit recipients are

AccessAbility, Inc. – workforce training and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities

Achieve Twin Cities – career readiness, internship and postsecondary pathway programs for students

American Indian OIC – job training and career placement programs, including skilled trades and construction

Avenues for Youth – housing stability and employment support for youth pursuing education and careers

Avivo – workforce development, including job training and placement in high-demand industries

Habitat for Humanity – hands-on construction experience and skills development through homebuilding

Hearts & Hammers – volunteer-driven home improvement projects that build trade exposure and community skills

Minnesota Diversified Industries – employment and manufacturing training for individuals with disabilities

Summit Academy OIC – accredited training programs in construction, healthcare and other career pathways

Twin Cities Rise – career training and job placement focused on long-term employment and financial stability

“For 100 years, Graco’s success has been closely connected to the strength of the communities where our employees live and work,” said Mark Sheahan, president and chief executive officer, Graco. “This centennial initiative recognizes that connection by supporting organizations that help people build stability, develop in-demand skills and prepare for careers in manufacturing, skilled trades and technology. Investing in these pathways helps strengthen our communities while also supporting the future workforce that companies like Graco depend on.”

The Graco Foundation has long been committed to supporting the communities where Graco employees live and work, with a focus on creating pathways to economic opportunity, workforce readiness, and long-term stability.

To learn more about the Graco Foundation, visit here.

ABOUT GRACO

Graco Inc. supplies technology and expertise for the management of fluids and coatings in both industrial and commercial applications. It designs, manufactures and markets systems and equipment to move, measure, control, dispense and spray fluid and powder materials. A recognized leader in its specialties, Minneapolis-based Graco serves customers around the world in the manufacturing, processing, construction and maintenance industries. For additional information about Graco Inc., please visit us at www.graco.com.