Advocacy & Contributions

The actions that governments take around the world can have significant impact on Caterpillar, our employees, customers and shareholders. On appropriate public policy issues, when it is constructive to do so under the applicable political governance system, we advocate appropriately, and in compliance with all applicable laws for positive policy outcomes.

The form of advocacy that we use may differ depending on political systems and local laws. We often communicate to our employees and other stakeholders on the importance of these public policy issues, and in some countries we may encourage them to express their views with lawmakers, if it is consistent with local custom and citizenship rights. Our leaders also occasionally utilize opportunities to interact with government officials to directly advocate these and other positions. We also belong to associations who advocate for these and other issues on behalf of the business community.

Where allowable, we may also make contributions to help fund campaigns for political candidates or state association PAC's who support public policies that we believe will lead to business growth and innovation. Where allowable by law, we may make such contributions directly from corporate funds. Under applicable provision in Our Values in Action , any such contributions must be approved by our Chief Executive Officer, and are reported annually to the Public Policy Committee of the Board of Directors. Corporate contributions approved for 2012 are shown here.

In addition to corporate political contributions, our eligible employees also fund and administer the Caterpillar Political Action Committee ("CATPAC"). CATPAC is entirely funded through voluntary contributions by eligible U.S. employees. A Steering Committee comprised of Caterpillar non-officer employees oversees all donations made by CATPAC. The Committee is comprised of seven to twelve U.S.-based employees who represent a diverse mix of U.S. locations and business units. CATPAC contributions go to federal and state campaigns. The candidates supported by CATPAC in the current election cycle as of January 2012 are shown here.

In addition to direct campaign contributions, Caterpillar also maintains memberships in organizations that engage in advocacy on behalf of segments of the business community. We are committed to supporting these organizations which champion public policies that contribute to the success and growth of the business community. Here is a list of such organizations to which Caterpillar has contributed, $50,000 per year or more in 2012.