Our
Story
OUR STORY
Vitol, a global energy company, made its first charitable grant in 2002. Four years later, the Vitol Foundation was established, to operate independently of Vitol.
Inspired by Vitol’s late CEO, Ian Taylor, the idea was simple: donate to charitable causes around the world discreetly and thoughtfully.
The Vitol Foundation was registered in Switzerland in 2006.
We seek to maximise impact by partnering with like-minded funders. Organised around five principal themes, we have a global reach and flexible approach that reflects the ethos of Vitol’s commercial interests.
We work with local and international charities and NGOs, social enterprises, national governments, public institutions and other local and international partners to channel private capital that will improve and strengthen existing in-country systems to create lasting and sustainable change.
We aim to develop a sense of community throughout the Vitol network, engaging our colleagues and offering them the chance to be involved. We provide funds to support projects nominated by local offices, and support individual and collective fundraising activities. We also encourage our colleagues to visit Foundation-supported projects.
ABOUT US
We are more than just a funder. Our grants enable solutions that deliver sustainable change.
All our funding decisions are framed by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, in particular 2 (zero hunger), 3 (good health and wellbeing), 4 (quality education), 6 (clean water and sanitation) and 8 (decent work and economic growth).
UN Sustainable Development Goals
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) are the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future. They address global challenges we face, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice; and are vital for a recovery that leads to greener, more inclusive economies and stronger, more resilient societies.
The Foundation’s work is framed by the UN SDGs and we measure impact through increased performance, increased inclusion, fostering innovation and catalysing access to finance.
