The Simona Kijonková Foundation will establish centers in socially excluded communities to support disadvantaged children, covering school supplies, extracurricular activities, residential programs, mock entrance exams, and therapy. Funds from the sale of Zásilkovna were directed by Simona Kijonková not only into further business ventures but also into her new foundation. Building on her experience as founder of the Zásilkovna endowment fund, she now launches large-scale philanthropy through her foundation. This year, the foundation’s budget is CZK 40 million, supporting both children in need and nonprofit organizations. The foundation plans to open leisure-time centers this year, while already providing financial support to children.
In the Czech Republic, 539 municipalities were classified as socially excluded in 2023, according to the Agency for Social Inclusion. The number increased by 80 compared to 2022. Social disadvantage significantly affects children and can have broader societal consequences.
“Children are our future, and their education and how they spend their free time matter greatly. I have been active in socially excluded areas since my childhood, having grown up near one and later volunteering there. Children in these regions often face situations they cannot manage, and schools frequently lack the resources to address these challenges. If a child does not grow up in a healthy and safe family and social environment, they may be drawn to gangs, substance abuse, or criminal activity,” explains Simona Kijonková, founder and managing partner of JSK Investments, entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist.
The foundation offers support to socially disadvantaged children under 18 through four programs: Developing extraordinary sports or artistic talent, Systematic preparation for entrance exams to secondary schools, Participation in school residential programs, and Mental health support.
Children can receive up to CZK 20,000 for residential programs such as skiing courses and outdoor schools, CZK 12,000 for exam preparation courses, CZK 15,000 for therapy sessions, or funding for sports equipment, musical instruments, and other artistic supplies. The foundation also focuses on children’s mental health, which is deteriorating. For example, a survey by the National Institute of Mental Health shows that over 50% of ninth-grade students in the Czech Republic exhibit signs of decreased well-being.
Funds cannot be used to pay off debts, and the foundation does not transfer money directly to applicants; instead, it pays suppliers or service providers directly.
Soon, the foundation will work directly with children and open leisure-time centers in socially excluded regions. “Being able to study safely, complete homework, and spend free time in a healthy way through various activities can help positively guide children,” Kijonková explains, emphasizing that her foundation supports children both financially and through local presence.
“Since the beginning of my entrepreneurial journey, I knew I wanted to help, especially children and single parents. After exiting Zásilkovna, I decided to focus not only on new business ventures but also on my largest philanthropic project to date. Through the foundation, I can provide systematic support and, in cooperation with educational institutions in the regions, involve individuals, companies, and other organizations to help address a societal problem,” adds Kijonková.
Funding from the Holding and Donors
This year, the foundation has a budget of CZK 40 million and plans to invest a similar or higher amount in the coming years. Most of the funds come from JSK Investments, owned by the Kijonková family, with additional support from partner organizations and individual donors. Anyone, individuals or companies whose values align with the foundation, can become a donor. In preparation is a fundraising strategy to actively engage potential donors.
The foundation’s Board of Trustees evaluates each properly submitted application individually. Parents and legal guardians of children can apply online via the foundation’s website, nadacesk.cz. Children may receive repeated support. Nonprofit organizations can apply for up to CZK 300,000 online.
“It is essential for us to provide support responsibly and transparently. All funds received by the Simona Kijonková Foundation are distributed directly and transparently to children in need or nonprofit organizations,” states Barbora Bachmeierová, Executive Director of the foundation.
