Bear Foundation
This organization is a private foundation dedicated to supporting a diverse range of causes, with a notable emphasis on health-related initiatives, particularly cancer research and assistance for cancer patients. It also funds programs that provide food to those in need, support youth development through sports and educational initiatives, and promote arts and culture through public performances and art displays. The foundation demonstrates a commitment to serving various populations, including individuals with disabilities and homeless youth. Its funding activities reflect a broad geographic reach, although it has a significant presence in states like Arizona and New York.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A small or local nonprofit working in food security, cancer support/health, youth development (including sports), or arts/culture seeking modest grants (typically under a few thousand dollars) and able to secure an introduction or preselection.
Good Fit
- • Programs in food distribution, cancer assistance, youth sports/mentoring, or local arts.
- • A need for modest project or program support in the $250–$1,200 range.
- • Existing relationships or an introduction from a current grantee, trustee, or local intermediary.
- • Located in or connected to states the funder has supported (notably AZ and NY).
Geography
Grants in the latest year went to organizations in five states with the foundation's home state (Arizona) receiving about 41% of dollars; the footprint is multi-state but regionally concentrated rather than national.
Recipient Variety
The foundation funded 8–12 distinct recipients each year and 11 distinct organizations in the latest year across health, food, youth, and arts, indicating a moderate breadth of independent grantees rather than a tiny closed circle.
New Applicants
Observed behavior shows new entrants have been funded (five new recipients in 2024), but the foundation's stated practice is to consider only preselected applicants and there is no public application route, so unsolicited applicants are unlikely to access funds without an introduction.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
