Updated Nov 3, 2026
Private foundations based in Somerville, Massachusetts
6 grantmaking foundations headquartered in Somerville, Massachusetts, holding $42M in assets. Ranked by grants paid in their latest 990-PF; 1 on this page say they accept applications. For foundations ranked by where their grants went, see local funders.
| Foundation | Grants paid | Median grant | Accepts applications | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Joan Shafran and Ron Haimes Foundation Incsince 2006 | $459K89 grants · 2025 | $1,000 | Preselected only | $3.9M |
| Henry David Thoreau Foundation Incsince 1949 | $318K27 grants · 2024 | $6,500 | Yes | $12M |
| Elsie Procter Van Buren Foundationsince 1994 | $298K17 grants · 2025 | $15K | Preselected only | $3.1M |
| August Foundation Incsince 2001 | $110K29 grants · 2025 | $2,500 | Preselected only | $1.2M |
| Habitat Foundationsince 2001 | $87K19 grants · 2025 | $5,000 | Preselected only | $2.0M |
| James B Boskey Memorial Foundation Incsince 2002 | — | — | Not stated | $20M |
Sources: IRS Business Master File (assets), ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer and IRS 990-PF e-file (grants paid, application policy). "Accepts applications" reflects the foundation's own Part XV checkbox.
Open grant programs in Massachusetts
All 2| Deadline | Grant | Funder | Award ceiling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rollingno deadline | Mass Cultural Council — Organizational GrantsStateMass Cultural Council | Mass Cultural Council | Not listed |
| Rollingno deadline | Mass Humanities — Humanities GrantsStateMass Humanities | Mass Humanities | Not listed |
Common questions
How many private foundations are based in Somerville, Massachusetts?
Our directory lists 6 private grantmaking foundations in Somerville, Massachusetts with at least $1 million in assets, holding a combined $42M. The data comes from the IRS Exempt Organizations Business Master File and Form 990-PF.
How do I get a grant from a private foundation?
Start with foundations that already fund organizations like yours nearby. Read the grantee list on each profile, check whether the foundation accepts applications (it says so on its 990-PF), and lead with a short letter of inquiry. Many family foundations fund only organizations they already know; an introduction through a shared grantee or board member works better than a cold proposal.
Can you help us approach foundations?
Yes. Our grant writers research foundation prospects, write letters of inquiry, and build a foundation fundraising plan. Request a free consultation.