Just Born Quality Confections, a family-owned candy manufacturer based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania since 1923, offers a corporate granting program designed to bring sweetness to communities. Through this program, the company supports initiatives that positively impact underprivileged, underserved, and underrepresented children and families. In alignment with its purpose and values, Just Born commits at least 15% of its funding to nonprofit organizations with diverse leadership that reflects the communities they serve, emphasizing their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The grant program operates through two annual funding cycles. The first cycle opens on January 1st and closes on June 30th, with notifications sent by the end of September. The second cycle begins on July 1st and ends on December 31st, with notifications issued by the end of March. Grant sizes range from $1,000 to $10,000, with the average grant being between $2,500 and $5,000. First-time recipients typically receive an average of $2,500. The amount awarded may vary from the amount requested depending on fund availability.
Funding is focused across several categories including education, health and human services, community building and development, environmental sustainability, and arts and culture. Specific supported initiatives range from early childhood education and STEM programs to trauma-informed care, housing for vulnerable populations, job-readiness training, environmental education, and access to the arts. Notably, programs supporting manufacturing-related workforce development are of particular interest.
Eligibility is geographically restricted to nonprofit organizations operating in Northampton County and Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, or within a 10-mile radius of the Goldenberg’s Peanut Chews plant in Pennsylvania. Ineligible entities include individuals, community festivals, religious programs, fraternal and athletic clubs, and animal shelters.
The application process is managed online, with options to begin a new application or return to a saved one. For those unable to access the online application, accommodations are available by contacting Meg Dowd, Corporate Affairs Manager. Applicants are evaluated based on their alignment with the program’s focus areas and DEI commitments.
For assistance or more information, applicants may contact the Corporate Affairs Department via phone at 484-934-2122 or email at grants@justborn.com. Additional support is available through Meg Dowd at mdowd@justborn.com.
