Who We Are Chartered as an operating corporation, Kettering does not make grants. The Kettering Foundation is an operating foundation rooted in the American tradition of inventive research. Its founder, Charles F. Kettering, holder of more than 200 patents, is best known for his invention of the electric automobile self-starter. Established in 1927, the foundation today continues in that tradition. Rather than look for ways to improve on politics as usual, we are seeking ways to make fundamental changes in how democratic politics are practiced.
Democracy requires healthy societies of citizens in communities.
Democracy requires legitimate institutions that encourage healthy civil societies. The Foundation's research focuses on finding ways to make democracy work better. What We Study Politics is not just about government. It is about all the ways that people solve their common problems. The Kettering Foundation is a research foundation that devises and tests strategies that will strengthen the role of citizens in governing themselves.