About Us

A technician under a car, working.

In 1995, George White of Ames led a group of dealers to establish the Iowa Automobile Dealers Foundation for Education. Driven by his passion for the automotive industry and his local community, George encouraged his fellow dealers to join his efforts to create the Foundation. Through the work and financial commitment of George and the other 24 Founder’s Club members, the Foundation has become a resource to support others joining the industry.
 
This forward-thinking group of automobile dealers believed that providing financial aid to aspiring automotive professionals would create a skilled workforce for the future.
 
The Foundation actively promotes job opportunities within Iowa’s dealerships and supports the state’s 15 community colleges in educating future employees.
 
The Foundation has grown in its 30+ years of existence, awarding more than 450 scholarships totaling over $830,000 to Iowa students. They have also awarded more than 125 grants totaling over $545,000 to the 15 Iowa Community College automotive programs.

The Foundation’s Mission

The Iowa Automobile Dealers Foundation for Education invests in the future by awarding scholarships to students pursuing careers in the automotive industry. We also award grants to the Iowa Community Colleges automotive programs to fund equipment purchases, instructor training, or other purposes that will enhance the learning experience. The Foundation develops programs and provides opportunities for high schools, colleges, educational agencies, and the public to encourage the pursuit of automotive careers.