OVERVIEW: The Pittsburgh Foundation supports self-sufficient individuals and families, healthy communities, vibrant democracy, and community projects in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
FUNDING AREAS: Self-sufficient individuals and families, healthy communities, vibrant democracy, community projects
IP TAKE: This is a well-rounded and approachable community funder that has well-defined funding areas and awards grants four times per year.
PROFILE: Established in 1945, the Pittsburgh Foundation is a community foundation based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This is the 14th-largest community foundation in the U.S. and has over 2,000 donor funds under management that have been created by individuals, businesses and organizations. This funder “works to improve the quality of life in the Pittsburgh region by evaluating and addressing community issues, promoting responsible philanthropy, and connecting donors to the critical needs of the community.” It funds local efforts for self-sufficient individuals and families, healthy communities, vibrant democracy, and community projects.
The Pittsburgh Foundation funds self-sufficiency grants that address the issues of education, housing, transportation, and work. To promote healthy communities, the funder supports projects that encourage safety, diversity, creativity, and eco-friendly practices. Democracy-focused grants go towards civic dialogue and participation to reshape policy. Meanwhile, community project funding often features matched giving opportunities. Special foundation initiatives are Advancing Black Arts in Pittsburgh, Investing in Professional Artists Program, Small and Mighty Grants, and the Social Justice Fund.
The foundation announced in 2023 that it intends to invest $50 million in racial equity and justice-related causes over the next five years.
Grants range between about $50,000 and $250,000. Learn more about this funder’s local giving in the news releases published on the foundation website. Grantmaking focuses on Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. Past local grantees include Macedonia Family and Community Enrichment Center, Women for a Healthy Environment, and Bethlehem Haven of Pittsburgh.
This foundation accepts unsolicited letters of inquiry from nonprofits. After submitting this inquiry, the foundation will select applications to then provide a full application via online portal. Letter of inquiry deadlines in the past have been in December, February, May, and August. Direct general questions to the staff at 412-391-5122 or via online form.
PEOPLE:
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