Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation Grant Program

The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation is a regional philanthropy established in accordance with the wishes of Michael and Sarah Benedum. Its mission is to support the well-being and economic prosperity of communities in West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania. The Foundation allocates approximately two-thirds of its funding to West Virginia and one-third to Southwestern Pennsylvania. In West Virginia, the Foundation’s support spans the entire state. In Southwestern Pennsylvania, its service area includes Allegheny, Washington, Greene, and Fayette Counties, recognizing the shared economic and cultural ties between these regions. The Foundation focuses on two primary program areas applicable to both states: Education and Economic Development. In West Virginia, additional focus areas include Community Development and Health. In Southwestern Pennsylvania, the Foundation also supports major performing arts organizations within the Cultural District of Pittsburgh. The Foundation is particularly interested in projects that transcend state lines and contribute to the regional economy, acknowledging that economic regions do not always align with political boundaries. Applicants must align their proposals with the Foundation’s mission and program descriptions. Before submitting a full application, potential applicants who are unsure of their project’s fit are encouraged to email a brief project description to info@benedum.org for preliminary feedback from program staff. The Foundation does not operate on fixed submission deadlines; applications are accepted throughout the year and reviewed on a rolling basis. Certain restrictions apply to funding eligibility. The Foundation does not fund organizations that are not exempt under IRS Section 501(c)(3), individuals, lobbying activities, religious purposes, or organizations located outside its designated geographic regions. Additional exclusions include endowments, individual schools, extracurricular activities, construction-related expenses, long-term operating costs, biomedical research, and event sponsorships unless directly tied to a Foundation-supported program. To apply, eligible organizations must use the Foundation’s online grant application portal. Detailed application guidelines, including reporting requirements for funded projects, are available on the Foundation’s website. All applications should reflect a clear understanding of the Foundation’s priorities and funding focus areas. For inquiries or additional information, organizations can contact the Foundation at 412-288-0360 or via email at info@benedum.org. The Foundation’s office is located at 1400 Benedum-Trees Building, 223 Fourth Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222.