The G Harold & Leila Y Mathers
The G. Harold & Leila Y. Mathers Foundation (Mathers Foundation) is a private foundation based in Rye Brook, New York that funds basic life‑sciences and health research, prioritizing bold, high‑risk/high‑reward projects. The site provides information on funding priorities, success stories, and instructions for applying via an online grants portal.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A tax‑exempt research institution, university, medical center, or eligible nonprofit proposing basic life‑sciences or health research that is high‑risk/high‑reward and sized for mid‑to‑large project grants.
Good Fit
- • A clear basic life‑sciences or disease‑focused research project goal.
- • Institutional affiliation (university, hospital, research institute) with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent eligibility.
- • Project budget and timeline matching typical awards ($100K–$500K, up to three years).
- • Evidence of strong scientific merit and novelty (high‑risk/high‑reward framing).
- • Willingness to apply via the foundation's online portal and meet trimester deadlines.
Geography
Observed grants span 14 states and the foundation sends roughly 80% of funds out of its home state, though Massachusetts received a notable 37% share in the latest year.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows 51 distinct recipients and 103 grants including many independent universities and hospitals; dollar concentration is low (top recipient ~2%, top five ~8%), though many grantees are repeat awardees.
New Applicants
The foundation publishes a formal two‑step online application portal with trimester review and contact details, and new recipients appear each year (13 in 2023, 7 in 2024), so unfamiliar applicants have a clear, evidence‑backed path to apply.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
