The International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading Foundation (ISTAT Foundation) was established in 1994 to support individuals and institutions dedicated to advancing commercial aviation and humanitarian efforts. The foundation leverages its resources to foster learning, development, and social responsibility within the aviation sector.

Committed to shaping the future of aviation, the ISTAT Foundation funds initiatives that provide educational opportunities and promote sustainable development in the industry. Through its programs, it nurtures young talent by supporting aviation-focused educational institutions, industry associations, and student organizations. Additionally, the foundation plays a critical role in humanitarian efforts, utilizing aviation as a means to deliver aid and relief to communities affected by crises.

With a strong emphasis on international outreach, the ISTAT Foundation prioritizes projects that integrate aviation with sustainability and global impact. Its grants serve as a vital resource for organizations that are working to innovate, educate, and provide critical services through aviation. By empowering institutions and individuals, the foundation continues to uphold its mission of supporting the growth and advancement of commercial aviation worldwide.

The ISTAT Foundation Grant Program provides financial support to organizations worldwide that contribute to the development of commercial aviation or engage in aviation-related humanitarian efforts. In 2025, priority will be given to educational projects that focus on environmental sustainability in aviation, addressing the industry’s growing need for sustainable solutions.

The grant program is managed by the Grants Committee of the ISTAT Foundation Board of Trustees, which evaluates applications based on their relevance to the foundation’s mission. It offers two types of grants: educational and humanitarian. Educational grants aim to foster early enthusiasm for aviation careers among young individuals, exposing them to various industry opportunities. Humanitarian grants support initiatives that use aviation to provide disaster relief, health-related aid, and other humanitarian assistance.

Due to high demand, the foundation receives more requests than it can fulfill, making the selection process highly competitive. In 2023, the average grant awarded was $8,500. Projects with a global impact, particularly those aligning aviation with sustainability, are given preference. Applicants who do not receive full or partial funding may request feedback on their application.