Ralph L. and Florence R. Burgess Trust Fund Grant

The Ralph L. and Florence R. Burgess Trust is a charitable fund established in 1968 by Ralph L. Burgess and Florence R. Burgess to support and promote performing arts organizations. Deeply committed to enriching cultural life, the founders created the trust to serve charitable organizations in Denver, Colorado, particularly those devoted to the performing arts. The Trust continues to be administered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., which serves as its trustee, ensuring that the couple’s philanthropic vision is carried forward with fidelity. The Trust primarily supports nonprofit organizations that promote performing arts within the city and county of Denver, Colorado. In addition to these, the Trust also provides funding to specific charities designated by the donors. The program areas are focused exclusively on arts, culture, and humanities, with an emphasis on initiatives that bring cultural enrichment to Denver’s local community. The program limitations specify that grants are restricted to performing arts-focused charities and a predefined list of donor-named organizations. Organizations applying must be classified as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All applications must be submitted through the Trust’s online grant application portal, which also includes accessibility options for users with assistive technology. The Trust has a semi-annual grant review cycle, accepting applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. However, to be considered for one of the two decision periods, applications must be submitted by either May 15 or November 15. Decisions are made at meetings in June and December, respectively. Grants typically range between $4,000 and $30,000, with the Trust awarding around ten grants per year and an average total annual giving of $125,000. While there is no explicit cost-sharing requirement mentioned, awardees may be asked to submit periodic progress and final reports as part of the accountability measures. Once an application is submitted, applicants receive an automated confirmation email. Selected grantees may receive further communication regarding the status of their grant and expectations for reporting. Although detailed evaluation criteria are not disclosed, applicants are advised to ensure their missions closely align with the Trust’s focus on the performing arts and geographic scope limited to Denver. This funding opportunity is recurring, with fixed deadlines every year on May 15 and November 15. The next upcoming deadline based on the current date is May 15, 2026, with internal check-ins expected by April 1, 2026, to prepare for the next cycle.