Surdna Foundation Incorporated
Surdna Foundation is a New York–based private foundation (founded 1917) that fosters just and sustainable communities through programs in Inclusive Economies, Sustainable Environments, and Thriving Cultures. The official site provides a grants database, prospective-grantee guidance, financial and annual reports, and a staff directory.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
U.S.-based nonprofit working on inclusive economies, sustainable environments, or cultural vitality seeking general operating or multi-year support and able to demonstrate community impact and organizational capacity.
Good Fit
- • Mission aligns with Inclusive Economies, Sustainable Environments, or Thriving Cultures.
- • Seeks general operating or strategic support rather than only a small pilot.
- • Has track record or credible plan for community-centered impact.
- • Willing to follow the foundation's LOI/guidance process and supply requested organizational documentation.
Geography
Observed grants in the latest year reached recipients in 38 states, indicating a national footprint though about 25% of dollars landed in the largest state.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows 392 distinct recipients with low dollar concentration (top five = 14%), demonstrating a broad and diverse recipient set rather than a tiny closed circle.
New Applicants
Across three years the foundation added many new grantees (191 new in 2023, roughly a 49% new rate) and maintains public application guidance and a rolling LOI process, supporting realistic entry by unfamiliar applicants.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
