The History of the Foundation

Ole Kirk's Foundation was founded on May 6, 1964. It was named after Ole Kirk Kristiansen, master carpenter, who – in 1934 – invented the word LEGO® as the collective name for his wooden toys. LEGO is a contraction of the two Danish words “LEg” and “GOdt” (Play Well), and LEGO became the trademark that has since spread to and become famous all over the world.

To Ole Kirk Christiansen only the best was good enough, and from the very start quality became a characteristic of all LEGO products. Giving children a chance to play well, stimulate creativity, imagination and learning are but some of the other characteristics that always have and always will be essential to all LEGO products.

The LEGO Group is owned by the Kirk Kristiansen family, who – in addition to Ole Kirk’s Foundation – has also established Edith & Godtfred Krik Christiansen’s Foundation and the LEGO Foundation. Of these, only Ole Kirk’s Foundation accepts applications.