Philip Morris International’s U.S. Businesses Put Pragmatic Philanthropy into Action in Connecticut
/Philip Morris International’s U.S. businesses (PMI U.S.) have announced details of their philanthropic investments in Connecticut, with over $2.5 million committed during 2024-2025.
This follows the release of the company’s Philanthropy 2025 Benchmark Survey, “Invested in America: Today’s High Standards for U.S. Companies,” which found that Americans want a different kind of corporate philanthropy, one rooted in community and collaboration.”
Results of the survey conducted earlier this year in April, point to a growing demand for companies to play a more active, community-centered role. Key findings included:
84 percent of Americans believe big companies have an ethical responsibility to support the communities where they operate.
53 percent see a heightened need for companies to be involved in their communities, citing the growing demand for services.
Younger Americans, aged 21 to 44, ranked “local investment” as a very high priority for companies.
“We’re in a new era in which Americans expect practical, results-driven action from the companies operating in their communities and the brands they support,” said Marian Salzman, Senior Vice President, Corporate Development at PMI U.S. “This is not about charity for the sake of appearances—it’s about investing in the real needs of real people. This is pragmatic philanthropy at its most powerful, and we’re committed to standing shoulder to shoulder with our trusted local partners in Connecticut to deliver lasting, measurable change.”
Headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, Philip Morris International Inc.’s U.S. businesses are “on a mission to improve public health in America” by providing the ~30 million legal-age consumers who still smoke traditional cigarettes with better, smoke-free alternatives.” PMI U.S. employs more than 2,900 people across the United States.
PMI U.S.’s giving in Connecticut reflects this philosophy through long-term investments in trusted organizations with deep community ties and a track record of generating impactful benefits, according to company officials. The announcement also follows the release of PMI U.S.’s Pragmatic Philanthropy: A New Imperative of Corporate Citizenship, a white paper that outlines the business’s approach to creating a sustainable impact through listening, partnership, and community involvement. The report also features a case study of PMI U.S.’s giving in action.
Local organizations in Connecticut supported during 2024 and 2025 include:
• Connecticut Foodshare - to address food insecurity for families across the state
• Orchestra LUMOS - to expand access to music by providing free performances, educational programs, and community events throughout Fairfield County
• Women’s Business Development Council - to help women entrepreneurs refine business plans, access capital, and build skills for economic self-reliance
• Dress for Success - to empower women in developing their careers and achieving economic independence
• AdvanceCT - to support economic growth and job creation in Connecticut
• Career Resources, Inc. - to advance workforce development and employment training to promote economic self-sufficiency
• Connecticut Veterans Law Clinic - to expand access to legal services and support to veterans statewide
The company’s website points out that “We work hard to give money and support where it will make the biggest difference. We engage with local groups to solve real problems and help communities in ways that last. We believe a ‘give where you live’ approach is best suited to meeting the unique needs of each community. That’s why we collaborate closely with local partners who are already doing great work.”
