The Richard C Von Hess Foundation 0262-02-40
The organization is a private foundation dedicated to supporting arts and culture, particularly through grants to museums and historical preservation societies. Its mission centers on enhancing cultural heritage and providing resources for artistic endeavors, as evidenced by its funding of various exhibitions, restorations, and educational programs. The foundation primarily serves art institutions and historical sites, contributing to the preservation and promotion of cultural assets. It demonstrates a strong commitment to the arts, with a notable focus on projects that celebrate and interpret historical narratives.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Established museums, historical preservation organizations, or cultural heritage nonprofits seeking project or capital support (exhibitions, conservation, restoration) with regional ties to Pennsylvania and nearby states.
Good Fit
- • Institution is a museum, historic site, or cultural heritage organization.
- • Project is a capital, exhibition, conservation, or naming-rights opportunity.
- • Organization has an established track record and capacity to manage mid- to large-sized grants.
- • Regional presence or partnerships in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York, or neighboring states.
- • Ability to secure introductions through existing grantees, trustees, or regional intermediaries.
Geography
In 2024 grants were distributed across eight states but with a clear regional bias: roughly 43% of dollars went to Pennsylvania while the remainder was allocated to nearby states such as Maryland, New York, Massachusetts, DC, Virginia, Delaware, and Maine.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows 23 distinct grantees (24 grants), and over three years the foundation funded many independent museums and historic organizations rather than a single controlled set of entities.
New Applicants
Behaviorally the funder supported 10 new recipients in 2024, so new entrants can be funded, but the foundation's stated practice of only funding preselected applicants and the absence of a public application process make direct access for unfamiliar organizations uncertain.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
