Ella West Freeman Foundation Grant

The Ella West Freeman Foundation, established in 1941 by A. B. Freeman in honor of his wife, has provided over $20 million to support non-profits in the Greater New Orleans area. The foundation prioritizes funding for specific projects in civic affairs, arts, and education, with a focus on measurable community benefits. Grants typically have a two-year limit and require a solid fundraising plan for capital projects. Operating support is less prioritized, especially for organizations reliant on community campaigns.

NOTE: Beginning with the 2026 application cycle, the Foundation will only consider grant applications once each year in the Spring cycle (January/March). The Fall application cycle will be eliminated.
Since its founding, the Foundation has provided the Greater New Orleans community with more than $20,000,000 of support for non-profits in the area.
Priority is given to funding for specific projects or programs incorporating well-defined objectives and timetables and promising broad public benefits. Longer term projects will usually require evaluation for further funding.
Sustaining grants to organizations are given a lower priority. Decisions regarding grants will be made only at regularly scheduled meetings of the trustees which are usually held twice a year in the spring and fall.

Eligibility

Supports non-profits in the Greater New Orleans area.

Ineligibility

Ordinarily, no operating support is considered for organizations supported by community giving campaigns such as the United Way and the Archbishop's Community Appeal. Sustaining grants to organizations are given a lower priority.