MacFarlane Foundation Grantmaking

The MacFarlane Foundation, established in 2009, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and communities through strategic grantmaking. It supports U.S. public charities focused on education, economic empowerment, climate change, health, and women's well-being. Grants range from $10,000 to $250,000, with a commitment to fostering growth in organizations. The foundation invites proposals annually, ensuring impactful contributions to various causes both domestically and internationally.

NOTE:  We have now completed our identification of organizations from which we are inviting grant proposals for this calendar year. Letters of Intent for 2026 consideration may be submitted beginning January 2026.
The MacFarlane Foundation conducts its grantmaking through proposals invited by the Executive Director and Trustees. The Foundation is particularly interested in opportunities to catalyze organizations into their next phase of growth or impact. The Foundation makes grants in two categories, with Category One  and Category Two grants.The Foundation is interested in supporting organizations addressing a range of issues, including but not limited to: education, economic empowerment, climate change and the environment, health, human services, and the well-being of women and girls. The Foundation generally funds organizations whose programs focus on populations within the United States, though the Foundation also has supported U.S.-based nonprofits working in other countries.
Category 1 Grants
Range of Grants Awarded: $10,000 - $75,000 Category One grants are made throughout the year
Category 2 Grants
Range of Grants Awarded: $200,000 - $250,000The Foundation identifies potential organizations for Category Two grants during the Spring of each year, invites proposals over the Summer, and makes decisions in early Fall.

Eligibility

To be eligible for support, grantees must be recognized as U.S. public charitable organizations under Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(1) or 509(a)(2).