Affecting Global Change, Locally
A charitable organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunity, entrepreneurship, and job creation in local communities.
Based in Annapolis Maryland, the Ratcliffe Foundation provides funds to colleges and other non-profit organizations that support job creation; with a focus on filling gaps in the labor market through skilled trades training or entrepreneurship. The Ratcliffe Foundation strives to integrate its programs with the local communities through internships, apprenticeships and local stakeholder involvement.
A Legacy of Empowerment:
Phil and Carole Ratcliffe’s Vision for Education and Entrepreneurship
Phil and Carole Ratcliffe created the foundation in 2003 with a vision to provide access to education & training for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners to grow their ventures, create jobs, and expand economic opportunities in local communities.
Their first grant was to Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) in August of 2003. The grant pledge for one million dollars over ten years was the largest individual donation in the college’s history. This grant supported scholarships for students at AACC studying in a wide variety of majors. What they all had in common was a desire to own a business. This program continues with approximately fifty students per year learning about entrepreneurship and business management.
What We Typically Fund
The Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation provides grant funds to US based not-for-profit institutions to foster entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic growth. Programs include industries ranging from the arts & aquaculture to the skilled trades. Many of the institutions provide training and seed funds to support innovation and new venture creation.
