The Nelson Foundation is an independent private foundation that was founded more than 30 years ago through the generosity of the late Admiral W. Linton Nelson and Grace S. Nelson. Since its inception, the Foundation has supported a variety of programs that provide direct services to children and youth in the Philadelphia region.
Learn more about The Nelson Foundation
Incorporated in 1984, the Foundation began active grantmaking in 1988 following the death of Mrs. Nelson. Since that time, the Foundation has made grants totaling more than $25 million.
What’s New at The Nelson Foundation

Message to Grantees – 12/7/2020
Dear Grantee Partner: The Board and staff of The Nelson Foundation hope that you, your staffs, and the communities you…

Core Grant Cycle Opens January 2021
The Nelson Foundation will welcome Letters of Inquiry from eligible current grantees and new applicants from January 1-22, 2021. Please…

The Foundation joins Co-funders of Listen4Good
The Nelson Foundation has joined 30+ funders in support of the Listen4Good Initiative at the Fund for Shared Insight. The…

A Message to our Grantees – July 29, 2020
Dear Grantee Partners: On behalf of the staff and Board of The Nelson Foundation, I have an important update, as…

Personal Message from Director Antonio Williams
Dear Grantee Partner, Many of us celebrated the end of the year filled with hope, excitement, and optimism for the…

A Pledge to our Partners
Dear Grantee Partners, The Nelson Foundation’s Board of Directors and Staff grieve for the many black lives cut short by…