The Frank and Lydia Bergen Foundation, administered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., supports musical performing arts and music education, reflecting the lifelong passion of Charlotte V. Bergen for classical music. The foundation was established in 1983 in honor of Frank and Lydia Bergen by their daughter Charlotte, a notable patron of the arts who organized over fifty public classical concerts at Carnegie Hall and donated a rare Stradivarius cello to the Smithsonian Institution. The foundation continues this legacy through its targeted grantmaking efforts.
The foundation’s mission is to perpetuate Charlotte Bergen’s love for classical music and commitment to music education by providing grants that support these fields. The focus of the funding is on musical performances, particularly orchestral concerts, and comprehensive music education for students. Grantmaking priorities include aiding worthy music students in obtaining thorough musical training and supporting organizations that provide orchestral music to the public, especially those serving under-resourced communities and promoting access to diverse audiences.
Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations. A unique eligibility criterion is that organizations that have received funding for three consecutive years must take a one-year hiatus before applying again. While the foundation accepts applications year-round, submissions must be received by July 1 to be considered at the September meeting. The foundation typically awards between 26 grants annually, with grant sizes ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.
There are no strict geographic restrictions; however, the foundation generally supports organizations located in the New York/New Jersey metropolitan area, specifically including the boroughs of New York City (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, Staten Island) and the counties of Essex, Monmouth, Union, Middlesex, and Morris in New Jersey. This practice aligns with the foundation’s historical and regional ties.
The application process is conducted online, and applicants receive an automated confirmation email upon submission. Periodic progress reports may be required from grantees. For inquiries or technical support, applicants can contact Wells Fargo’s grant administration team at 1-888-235-4351 or via email at grantadministration@wellsfargo.com.
