Fondazione Cariplo supports social and civil organisations - including universities, research centres, foundations or institutes - so they can serve their community more effectively. It operates through calls for proposals, sponsorship of events and specific contributions to local projects inside the framework of its action plans. This includes culture and heritage, entertainment and performing arts, learning and education, North-South divide and social housing, among others.

In the arts field, the foundation's goal is to increase opportunities and broaden participation for people from all backgrounds, especially among the underprivileged.