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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Adam Connaker appointed Director, Impact Investing at the Surdna Foundation

New York, NY, March 7, 2022—The Surdna Foundation today announced that Adam Connaker, an investment professional whose work has focused on harnessing innovative finance for positive social and environmental outcomes, has been appointed Director,…

From the President

March 16, 2022

Sustaining Support for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders

A year ago, a man with a handgun drove to three spas in Atlanta and murdered eight people, including six Asian women. The heinous crime sparked national outrage and heightened awareness about anti-AAPI hate, which had spiked after President Trump…

Careers

March 3, 2022

The Surdna Foundation Announces Three Promotions

With the new year in full swing, we are pleased to announce three promotions at the Surdna Foundation: Alison Corwin has taken helm as Program Director of Sustainable Environments. As Director, Alison will oversee a $9.2 million…

Staff Perspectives

February 23, 2022

On Narratives and Making Justice Pop

I am a gay Puerto Rican cis-man raised in Massachusetts. In public, I have the privilege of passing as white. My parents were activists since they were young and always vocal on issues of justice, whether on the island or stateside. Growing up, I…