Charles Edison Fund - Edison Fellowships

A philanthropic institution founded by Charles Edison (son of Thomas Edison) that supports worthwhile endeavors. The Charles Edison Fund has honored entrepreneurs and innovators through Edison fellowship programs at prestigious institutions.

Focus Areas:

• Medical research
• Science education
• Historic preservation
• Entrepreneurship and innovation
• Social innovation
• Public policy and smart cities

Eligible Recipients:

• Entrepreneurs and innovators
• Students and researchers at partner institutions
• Examples: Harvard Kennedy School fellows, AI/technology innovators

Geographic Scope: National and international

Partnership Examples:

• Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) - established 1992 with $150,000 initial grant, now grown to $1,099,754 base
• Supports projects that improve human communication and community engagement

Background:

• Founded by Charles Edison (1890-1969), Secretary of the Navy and Governor of New Jersey
• Originally called "The Brook Foundation" (named after childhood Sunday School song)
• Still active and serving its original purpose over 50 years after Charles Edison's death
• Sister organization to Edison Innovation Foundation
• Mission: "Doing well by doing good"

Contact:

• Email: info@thomasedison.org
• Phone: 973-648-0500
• Address: 1037 Raymond Blvd., Suite 340, Newark, New Jersey 07102