National Grid Corporate Giving

The National Grid Foundation Grant Program, established in December 1998, supports nonprofit organizations that create positive, measurable impacts within communities served by National Grid. With an initial endowment of $20 million—later enhanced by $10 million in 2000 and $5 million in 2007—the Foundation has since awarded over $43 million in grants. It is committed to serving as more than just a funding body, aspiring to be a thought leader and strategic partner in community advancement. The Foundation aims to transform lives by fostering opportunity and sustainability, while collaborating with nonprofit entities to drive local-level change. The Foundation's funding priorities focus on two major domains: education, including STEM and literacy, and community wellbeing, with a targeted emphasis on social determinants of health and development. Grants are meant to enhance the quality of life and enable individuals to become more self-sufficient. The Foundation works within National Grid’s service territory in the United States and actively seeks organizations that are closely aligned with these goals. Notably, the Foundation does not entertain unsolicited proposals. Instead, its grant process is strictly invitation-only. Eligible nonprofit organizations—defined as those exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and not classified as private foundations under Section 509(a)—may be invited to apply based on strategic priorities and outreach conducted by program staff. There is currently no open call for applications, and the timeline for when applications are accepted or reviewed is not publicly disclosed. Funding restrictions include capital campaigns, vehicle purchases, direct scholarships, general operating expenses (such as transportation), endowment campaigns, individual grants, and events like conferences or fundraisers. The Foundation also does not support religious, political, fraternal, or social membership organizations, and proposals from groups located outside the geographic bounds of National Grid’s U.S. service area are generally not eligible unless the proposed work directly benefits its customer communities. Program staff evaluate potential grantees through direct engagement and strategic alignment, issuing application invitations accordingly. While the grant levels and availability of funds are determined annually by the corporate Board of Directors based on financial performance, the Foundation does not guarantee renewal of grants and discourages requests for multi-year commitments. Successful applicants are notified at the end of each grant period, although the specific timeline for awards and performance periods is not outlined publicly. Key contacts for the Foundation include Executive Director Dr. Robert Simmons, Program Director Deborah Andrews-Drew, and Program Officer Kahri Fuller. Although no specific contact emails or phone numbers are provided in the public-facing materials, potential applicants who are approached for an invitation can reasonably expect guidance and communication through internal channels. There is no downloadable application form or PDF link, as the process is not open for general public submission.