National Nordic Foundation

Overview

The National Nordic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a focus on supporting American skiing, particularly in cross-country and Nordic combined disciplines. The foundation aims to bridge the financial gap that often prevents American skiers from competing at the highest levels, such as the World Cup and Olympic events[1][2].

Mission and Vision

The foundation's mission is to provide opportunities for developing Nordic skiers from the United States to achieve excellence, specifically targeting those transitioning to World Cup and Olympic levels. Its vision is to create a future where Nordic skiing is both accessible and thriving, fostering a community empowered to strive for athletic excellence[2].

Key Activities

• Support for Athletes: The NNF supports developing athletes through funding for international competitions, top-level domestic competitions, and initiatives aimed at making skiing more equitable and accessible[5].
• SuperTour and NNF Cup: The NNF is the presenting sponsor of the SuperTour, the premier domestic racing circuit in the U.S. It also oversees the NNF Cup, which celebrates club excellence in the SuperTour by recognizing the best-performing clubs over the season. The NNF Cup winner receives a cash prize and the cup itself[4].
• Pillar Projects: These include training and competition trips, U16 camps, international exchanges, and grants for athletes and coaches to gain international experience[3][5].

Financial Overview

The NNF relies heavily on contributions from donors, with a significant portion of its revenue coming from individual donations. It operates without professional fundraising fees or liabilities[1].

Partnership and Impact

The foundation partners closely with US Ski and Snowboard and Nordic Combined USA to identify crucial funding opportunities for American skiers. This partnership has contributed to the recent successes of U.S. skiing, including World Cup titles and Olympic medals[2][5].

Drive for 25

Each year, the National Nordic Foundation conducts a "Drive for 25" campaign, aiming to secure donations from a large number of individuals and amplify its community impact with matching funds. This initiative supports the pursuit of excellence by U.S. Nordic skiers and promotes the development of the sport[3].

Leadership and Community

The NNF is led by a team of experienced athletes, including Olympic medalists and World Cup winners, who work together to advance the sport. The foundation fosters a sense of community among skiers, promoting unity and collaboration within the Nordic skiing community in the United States[2][5].