Supporting Just and Sustainable Communities

Our History

The Surdna Foundation was founded in 1917 by John Emory Andrus to pursue a range of philanthropic purposes. To this day, family stewardship of the Foundation is guided by Andrus’ commitment to serving those in need.

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Programs

Through our investments, we dismantle the barriers that limit opportunities to create more prosperous, enriching, and sustainable communities. Taken together, our investments build capacity, spark innovation, and connect stakeholders while encouraging lesson-sharing between grantees.

Inclusive Economies

We support and invest in the growth of robust, sustainable economies with diverse businesses owned by people of color and the advancement of equitable economic development.

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Sustainable Environments

We support the creation of just and sustainable communities in which low-wealth and communities of color have the power to self-determine the ownership, control and stewardship of land and its infrastructure assets.

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Thriving Cultures

We invest in artists, culture-bearers, designers, and media-makers of color who partner with their communities to radically imagine justice and foster the conditions for just systems and practices to be adopted.

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Latest News & Events Learn More
Featured Careers
September 23, 2021

JOB: Program Associate, Inclusive Economies

The Surdna Foundation—a national, social justice, family foundation based in New York City—seeks a Program Associate for its Inclusive Economies Program. The Program Associate will report directly to the Program Director for the Inclusive…

Staff Spotlight
October 18, 2021

Javier Torres-Campos Q&A with Inside Philanthropy

Surdna's Thriving Cultures Program Director, Javier Torres-Campos recently spoke with Mike Scutari of Inside Philanthropy about the past, present, and future of the philanthropic sector. The excerpt below was first published by Inside…

Staff Spotlight
October 15, 2021

Mekaelia Davis Q&A with Economic Opportunity Funders

The following excerpt is from an interview between Economic Opportunity Funders Network and Mekaelia Davis, Program Director, Inclusive Economies, Surdna Foundation: What is the mission of your foundation, and how does addressing economic equity…

Andrus Family Fund
September 28, 2021

The Visionary Freedom Fund Announces Inaugural Cohort of Grant Recipients

Grantmaking Led by Youth Organizers to Transform Youth Justice System  NEW YORK — The Visionary Freedom Fund (VFF) today announced its inaugural cohort of grant recipients, distributing $2.5 million over two years to resource 26…