Matthew B Ridgway Mary Aridgway And Matthew
This organization is a private foundation dedicated to providing financial support primarily to educational institutions and community development initiatives. Its mission reflects a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities, as evidenced by its funding of universities and colleges, including Bucknell University and the Pitt-Matthew B Ridgeway Center. The foundation supports a range of causes, focusing on general support for various charitable organizations. While it primarily operates within Pennsylvania, it also extends its support to organizations in Virginia and North Carolina.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Mid‑sized nonprofits (especially universities, colleges, and history/military history institutions) with an existing relationship or referral to the foundation, preferably based in Pennsylvania or connected to the foundation's network.
Good Fit
- • Established higher-education institution or historical organization with prior ties to the foundation or its network.
- • Budget and request size aligned with past grants (~$20K–$40K).
- • Pennsylvania presence or a demonstrable connection to the foundation's regional interests.
- • A request for general operating support rather than a small pilot grant.
Geography
In the latest year grants went to organizations in three states, with a clear concentration in Pennsylvania where about 63% of dollars were awarded.
Recipient Variety
The single observed year shows five distinct, independent recipients spanning universities and historical organizations, which indicates a moderate variety for a small private foundation.
New Applicants
The foundation's profile explicitly indicates it funds only preselected organizations and there is no public website or contact route; direct evidence is limited to one year, but the 'preselected only' practice makes entry by unfamiliar applicants unlikely.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
