Rio Tinto Foundation
About
The Rio Tinto Foundation represents the philanthropic and community investment initiatives of Rio Tinto, a global mining company. It focuses on supporting communities where Rio Tinto operates, aiming to deliver lasting social and economic benefits, particularly in Australia.
Tips for Applicants
For the Western Australia Community Giving program, local grass-roots organisations should fill out the application form available on the Rio Tinto website's Western Australia communities section and send it to ciwa@riotinto.com. Focus on projects that align with their stated thematic areas of community development, health, education, employment, economic opportunity, Indigenous wellbeing, cultural heritage, and inclusion in WA.
Giving Philosophy
Rio Tinto's giving philosophy is deeply integrated with its sustainability strategy, aiming to provide materials responsibly while contributing to thriving and resilient communities. They believe in creating enduring partnerships with communities, organisations, and governments to address shared challenges and unlock opportunities. Key aspects include respecting cultural heritage, promoting social and economic benefits, and fostering inclusion. They take a long-term view, with a significant portion of their social investment linked to multi-year initiatives.
Notable Grants
Giving History
Programs & Opportunities (7)
Rio Tinto Indigenous Scholarship Program
This program offers scholarships to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students pursuing full-time tertiary education at an Australian university, with a focus on Pilbara Traditional Owners.
Indigenous Scholarship and Cadetship Programs
Rio Tinto supports various Indigenous Scholarship and Cadetship Programs.
Community Giving program
This program offers grants of up to $5,000 to local grass-roots organisations in Western Australia to support communities where Rio Tinto operates, focusing on areas like community wellbeing, environment, education, economic development, and Indigenous initiatives.
Community Giving program (Western Australia)
Supports local grass-roots organisations in Western Australian communities where Rio Tinto works and lives, including those neighbouring their operations and regional FIFO communities. Organisations can apply for up to $5,000.
Inspire Community Partnership
A 10-year, $37.5 million agreement between Rio Tinto and the Shire of Ashburton (WA) to deliver infrastructure projects, local services, and public events that foster economic diversity and social connection in Tom Price, Paraburdoo, and Pannawonica.
Rio Tinto Centre for Future Materials
A global research centre funded by a $150 million Rio Tinto investment over 10 years, connecting the Australian National University (ANU) and other international institutions to research sustainable materials, promote Indigenous rights, and support the clean energy transition.
Rio Tinto Community Giving program
This program offers grants of up to $5,000 to local grassroots organisations in Western Australia to support initiatives that benefit communities where Rio Tinto operates. It focuses on areas like community connection, health, youth engagement, and capacity building for local groups.