The Barra Foundation funds organizations and projects that enable the foundation to achieve greater social impact in the Philadelphia five-county region through strategic grant-making in the areas of:
The Barra Foundation invests in innovation to inspire change that strengthens communities in the Greater Philadelphia region. The Foundation wants to invest in innovation that seeks to drive positive change to address the needs of low-income populations in the region and promote a continued vibrant cultural community. The principles that mold their approach to innovation:
The Barra Foundation offers two sources of funding. The Catalyst Fund and Barra Awards. Through the Catalyst Fund, the foundation invests in ideas that tackle problems or seize opportunities in new, different, better and significant ways. These timely and novel approaches push boundaries and have the potential to inspire change. The Barra Awards reward exemplary nonprofit organizations that demonstrate leadership, performance and adaptability. This core support advances the work of organizations that keep pace with a changing environment and continually strive to strengthen the communities they serve.
For an idea to be supported in the Catalyst Fund, it should exhibit the following qualities:
Barra Award awardees are recommended to Barra by nominators—peers selected for their experience and familiarity with the organizations that strengthen the five-county Philadelphia region. Most nominators work in the social sector themselves.
Non-profit organizations in the five-county Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area are eligible to apply. This includes Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Initial approach should be with a Letter of Intent. Funding requests are considered at quarterly board meetings in March, June, September and December. The Barra Award is a two-year grant cycle. Eligible nominated organizations will receive an invitation to apply.