Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation Grants

The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation is a private philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting initiatives that improve the quality of life in West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania. Guided by the legacy of Michael and Sarah Benedum, the Foundation has maintained a strong regional focus and typically allocates approximately two-thirds of its grantmaking budget to West Virginia, with the remaining third directed toward Southwestern Pennsylvania. The Foundation's operational philosophy is informed by the understanding that economic and social development often transcends political borders. Consequently, it is open to funding projects that span state lines or contribute to the broader economic region anchored by Pittsburgh. The Foundation directs its grantmaking activities through two primary program areas: Education and Economic Development, both of which are supported across West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania. Additionally, the Foundation provides funding in the areas of Health and Community Development specifically in West Virginia, while in Southwestern Pennsylvania, its focus is centered on supporting major performing arts institutions located within Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. This geographically tailored approach reflects the Foundation’s goal to leverage regional strengths and address unique local challenges effectively. In terms of geographic eligibility, all counties within West Virginia are eligible for funding. In Southwestern Pennsylvania, eligible counties include Allegheny, Washington, Greene, and Fayette. These counties form a corridor that bridges rural communities and urban centers, aligning with the Foundation’s intent to foster regional integration and shared economic growth. The Foundation notes the importance of supporting rural communities and views the four-county area as an extension of its work in West Virginia, leveraging experience gained from rural development initiatives. The Foundation does not publish fixed deadlines or provide detailed application windows, suggesting that it may operate on a rolling basis. Applicants are encouraged to review the Foundation’s application guidelines and submit proposals aligned with its focus areas. Interested applicants can visit the Foundation's website for further information and to initiate the application process. The Foundation’s contact information includes a phone number, 412-288-0360, and email address, [email protected], for inquiries and proposal submissions. There are no publicly disclosed funding ceilings, floors, or total program funding amounts on the Foundation’s website. The lack of financial specifics implies that grant sizes may vary depending on the scope and scale of the project proposed. Additionally, there are no stated matching requirements. The eligibility criteria for applicants are not narrowly defined, but from the Foundation’s activities and award history, it can be inferred that nonprofit organizations, public entities, and possibly educational institutions are typical recipients. Potential applicants are advised to closely align their proposals with the Foundation’s program areas and regional focus to increase their likelihood of receiving funding. Finally, there is no explicit list of application questions or estimated time to complete the application provided on the site. Due to the Foundation’s streamlined and flexible approach to funding, it is recommended that applicants contact the Foundation directly with questions or to discuss their project's alignment with the Foundation’s priorities before submitting a full proposal.