Foundations that fund organizations in Massachusetts, Massachusetts
Worked out from where the grants went, not where the foundations sit.
Funding landscape for Massachusetts nonprofits
4 private foundations gave $445K to Massachusetts organizations in their latest filings; 1 of the 4 that say either way accept applications.
4 grants in total, with a typical foundation's median grant to Massachusetts around $150K. 2 of these funders are based in Massachusetts; the rest give here from elsewhere.
- Foundations giving here
- 4
- Accept applications
- 1
- of 4 that state a policy
- Dollars to Massachusetts
- $445K
- latest filings
- Grants
- 4
- Typical median grant
- $150K
- Based in MA
- 50%
- of funders listed
Funders, by dollars given to Massachusetts organizations
| Foundation | Based in | Grants here | Dollars here | Median | Accepts applications | Typical purposes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Heineman-Russell Family Foundation | New Canaan, CT | 1 | $255K | $255K | Preselected only | To support the mission of the organization |
| Robert and Dana Smith Charitable Foundation C/O Castanea Partners | Newton, MA | 1 | $150K | $150K | Preselected only | Educational |
| The Abrams Family Foundation | New York, NY | 1 | $25K | $25K | Preselected only | Unrestricred support of organizations exempt purpose |
| Ruth H & Warren a Ellsworth Foundation | Worcester, MA | 1 | $15K | $15K | Yes | Charitable |
Source: IRS Form 990-PF Part XV, latest electronic return per foundation (2026-10-28). "Accepts applications" reflects the foundation's own checkbox on Part XV line 2. Grants to individuals excluded.
Common questions
Which foundations give to nonprofits in Massachusetts, Massachusetts?
The Heineman-Russell Family Foundation, Robert and Dana Smith Charitable Foundation C/O Castanea Partners, The Abrams Family Foundation, Ruth H & Warren a Ellsworth Foundation reported grants to Massachusetts organizations on their latest Form 990-PF.
How do I approach a foundation that doesn't accept applications?
A foundation that checks "contributes only to preselected organizations" on its 990-PF won't review a cold proposal. Look at who it funds, find a shared board member, grantee or advisor, and ask for an introduction. Foundations that accept applications usually list a contact and deadlines in Part XV; we show that text on each foundation's page.
Is this list complete?
No. It covers private foundations (Form 990-PF filers) whose latest electronic return lists at least one grant to an organization in Massachusetts. Community foundations and corporate giving programs file different forms and are not included yet.