Updated: June 30, 2020

Several scams in the form of email, phone, text, and social media solicitations (including Facebook Messenger) claiming to be from or associated with the Ford Foundation and/or President Darren Walker are circulating. We have learned that people are receiving emails suggesting grants, awards, scholarships, and funds are forthcoming. They often include our logo, photos, links, or other information taken directly from our official website: www.fordfoundation.org. One scam email refers to an earlier message supposedly sent through a secure drive, and asks the recipient to confirm receipt. 

These messages are fraudulent and in no way associated with the Ford Foundation or any foundation employees.

The Ford Foundation does not solicit donations or request any type of administrative or handling fees for its grant applications or for grantees to receive funding.

If you get an email, phone call, or text that appears to be from the Ford Foundation for any type of payment or personal information, or if you receive an email or communication seemingly from the foundation that you feel is suspicious, please disregard that communication. Do not send money or provide any personal or bank account information. Do not click on any links.

To be clear, the Ford Foundation and its employees do not:

• Sponsor lotteries of any kind.
• Solicit donations of any kind.
• Ask for bank account or personal information.
• Approach individuals offering grant opportunities or scholarships.
• Require/request grantees to pay insurance, deposits, or delivery and administrative fees for grant funds.
• Request funds through social media, such as Facebook or Twitter.
• Offer investment opportunities.
• Request conference fees or fees to apply for jobs.

Report these scams and fraud communications to the Federal Trade Commission (www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov) or FBI (www.ic3.gov).