Darren Star Foundation
This organization is a private foundation dedicated to supporting various charitable causes, with a notable focus on arts and culture, health-related initiatives, and community service. It provides funding primarily through grants to nonprofit organizations, including those involved in cultural heritage and community development. The foundation's mission reflects a commitment to enhancing cultural experiences and supporting health charities, as evidenced by its contributions to organizations like Project Angel Food and the American Friends of the Louvre. While it operates nationally, its funding activities indicate significant engagement with organizations in both California and New York.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Established arts, cultural, or health nonprofits (often mid-sized or larger) based or active in California or New York that run public events or capital campaigns and have existing connections to the funder or its network.
Good Fit
- • Asking for support for a capital campaign or major facility project.
- • Hosting a prominent charitable event or gala that the foundation has supported historically.
- • Organizational presence in California or New York, especially Los Angeles or New York City.
- • An existing introduction or relationship to the foundation leadership or board.
Geography
Grants were distributed across three states (California, New York, Maryland) but the latest year was concentrated in California, which received about 64% of dollars; the footprint is multi-state yet regionally focused.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows a fairly broad recipient set (12 distinct recipients) spanning arts, cultural, and health organizations, and many recipients appear independent rather than affiliated; this indicates a diverse portfolio for the foundation’s size.
New Applicants
The foundation states grants are by preselection only and no public application or contact pathway was found, which makes unsolicited access unlikely; however, the latest year did include many new recipients, suggesting new entrants can be added — likely via invitation or cultivated relationships rather than open applications.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
