Mertz Gilmore Foundation
Mertz Gilmore Foundation is a New York–based private foundation supporting community power-building and the arts; current program priorities listed are “Democracy & Power” and “New York Dance.” The website includes organizational history, staff/people listings, contact details (218 E 18th Street, New York, NY), and grantmaking information for grantseekers.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A U.S.-based 501(c)(3) or fiscally sponsored nonprofit working in community power-building, democratic values, or dance/arts—especially organizations with a New York City presence or demonstrated alignment to the foundation's Democracy & Power and New York Dance priorities.
Good Fit
- • Work focused on community power, democracy, or dance/arts programming
- • Operations and programming conducted in the United States, ideally with NYC activity
- • 501(c)(3) status or a fiscal sponsor
- • History of general operating or programmatic impact that fits the foundation's stated priorities
- • Existing connections or introductions into the foundation's program networks
Geography
Grants in 2024 reached organizations across 23 states, showing multi-state reach, but roughly half of dollars were concentrated in New York, indicating a strong in-state emphasis alongside national support.
Recipient Variety
The foundation funded 232 distinct recipients in 2024 across arts, democracy, climate, and community organizations, reflecting a broad and diverse recipient set rather than a tiny or closed circle.
New Applicants
Behaviorally the foundation added many new grantees in 2024 (about 81 new recipients), which shows it brings new organizations into the portfolio, but the public policy that unsolicited proposals are not accepted and the promise of a future portal reduce the likelihood that an unfamiliar applicant can successfully submit an unsolicited application today.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
