The Nancy Lurie Marks Family Foundation

The foundation says it is committed to understanding autism from a scientific perspective, increasing opportunities and services for the autism community, and educating the public. Its grant categories include advocacy, education and social policy; basic science; translational science; career development; and community programs. Its scientific work includes research into autism’s biological basis, including anatomy and physiology, genetics, and neuroimaging. The foundation also supports projects aimed at improving autistic people’s communication and social abilities, expanding advocacy and access to support services, and encouraging inclusion.

The foundation generally funds 501(c)(3) public charities or international equivalents. Its stated criteria include close alignment with its mission, potential for significant impact, a proven track record, capacity to carry out the proposed work, fiscal responsibility, and a clear fit with its grant categories. It says community and recreation grants should focus on the Greater Boston area. It generally does not fund grants to individuals or families, lobbying or political activity, government agencies, commercial purposes, or organizations that use litigation as a primary tool.

Examples illustrate the range of organizations receiving support. The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania, which received a 2025 grant, describes its mission as combining education, research, and patient care. Massachusetts Advocates for Children, also a 2025 grantee, says it works to remove barriers to educational and life opportunities for children and youth through advocacy, partnerships with students and families, and systemic change. Other 2025 recipients include the University of Chicago, which describes a mission centered on creating and communicating knowledge and fostering a scholarly community, and Boston Medical Center, whose stated mission is to provide accessible health services regardless of a patient’s status or ability to pay.