Hmc Designing Futures Foundation
HMC Designing Futures Foundation (DFF) is the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of HMC Architects (founded 2009) that awards grants and scholarships supporting architecture, STEM/STEAM education, sustainability, and community projects. The foundation’s activities and grant announcements are published on HMC Architects’ website and in linked PDFs. EIN 26-3935702 and recent Form 990-PF filings corroborate the foundation’s identity and activity.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A California-based nonprofit or educational program working in architecture, STEM/STEAM education, youth mentorship, community revitalization, or sustainability with projects sized to grants in the low- to mid-five-figure range.
Good Fit
- • Location or programming with a clear California presence or partnership.
- • Programs focused on architecture education, scholarships, or STEM/STEAM youth development.
- • Community-built projects (affordable housing, gardens, restoration) or event sponsorships tied to the architecture sector.
- • Program scale that fits typical grants in the $1,000–$25,000 range.
- • Connections or nominations from architecture firms, local AIA chapters, or HMC Architects networks.
Geography
Observed giving is heavily concentrated in California, which received about 84% of 2024 dollars, with only occasional out-of-state grants across four other states.
Recipient Variety
The funder supported 23 distinct recipients in 2024 (41 distinct recipients in 2022) across education, housing, environmental, and youth programs, and most grants are to independent organizations rather than affiliated entities.
New Applicants
Although 19 of 23 2024 recipients were first-time grantees, the foundation explicitly declares it makes only preselected awards and does not publish an open solicitation, so unfamiliar organizations will likely need nomination or a relationship to be considered.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
