The Aesop Foundation

We exist to amplify the voices of excluded communities in the pursuit of equity, belonging, and a thriving planet.

The Aesop Foundation aims to have a meaningful impact in the communities in which it operates, while also embracing the need to go beyond, understanding the interconnected social and environmental issues faced across the world.

Our Compass

The world remains vastly unequal. Extreme poverty coexists with extreme wealth. The nature of this distribution of resources has caused and continues to exacerbate the current climate crisis.

Our Compass drives us toward a different world, where the spirit of generosity guides human action. A place in which safety, dignity, and opportunity are extended to all.

The Aesop Foundation has made a financial pledge to grant AUD $40million by 2030.

We believe in trust-based philanthropy and seek to support partners with unrestricted grants over multiple years, meaning that these partners are then free to decide how the money should be spent.

The organisational structure of the Foundation is deliberately small, to maximise the resources that can be provided to its partners. As a result, the Foundation is currently unable to accept unsolicited applications.

Because applying for a grant takes time and energy, the process aims to be as transparent and efficient as possible for those who are invited to apply.

80% of the Foundation’s budget is allocated to multi-year partnerships, and 20% of the budget is allocated to one-off acute social and environmental issues.

Those directly impacted by exclusion often have the courage, ability, and passion for creating a better world. As allies, we want our generosity to magnify the efforts of such marginalised communities to lead and drive change. It is important that we show up in the right way. To this end, we are intentional about investing in organisations owned or operated by under-represented communities.

Beyond money
Where possible, the Foundation can connect grantees with other funders and provide resources for smaller organisations that do not have access to professional fundraising support.

Product donations
Each Aesop signature store can give products to support charitable organisations in the local community. Additional product donations are made to charitable partners via the Aesop Foundation.

Matched giving
Aesop has a matched-giving programme which is open to all employees. Any money donated to a registered charity will be matched by the Aesop Foundation.

Volunteering
Aesop’s intent has always been to extend support beyond monetary means and nurture enduring relationships. All Aesop employees are encouraged to donate 1% of their working hours to volunteer with local organisations.

Employee involvement
The Aesop Foundation reflects the values of Aesop and is supported by regional employee-led Philanthropy Committees. Alongside those, the Aesop Foundation partners with Aesop’s Employee Resource Groups. There are currently four such groups, focusing on women and allies; race, ethnicity and culture; disability, neurodiversity and mental-health conditions; and LGBTQIA+ rights.