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The Edna McConnell Clark Foundation

The Edna McConnell Clark Foundation - NOT ACCEPTING NEW APPLICATIONS

Status: NOT AVAILABLE FOR NEW GRANT APPLICATIONS

The Edna McConnell Clark Foundation (EMCF) is no longer accepting new grant applications or inquiries from grantseekers.

Current Situation

In October 2018, EMCF announced it was entering the final stage of its limited-life strategy. The foundation is spending down all its assets (approximately $1 billion) over the next decade to make a lasting impact on children and families living in poverty in the United States.

According to their official website: "EMCF is no longer soliciting or reviewing inquiries or information from grantseekers."

What This Means

  • No new applications accepted: The foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals or inquiries
  • Winding down operations: EMCF exists only to manage remaining assets and fulfill existing commitments to current grantees
  • Staff transitioned: The foundation's staff and operations have transitioned to Blue Meridian Partners

Alternative Funding Source

Grant seekers interested in the type of work EMCF supported should explore Blue Meridian Partners (www.bluemeridian.org), which:

  • Was incubated at EMCF and launched as an independent organization in 2016
  • Continues the performance-based investment approach EMCF developed
  • Focuses on finding and funding scalable solutions to problems affecting young people and families in poverty
  • Has EMCF as a founding General Partner

Historical Context (For Reference Only)

Former Mission

EMCF championed economically disadvantaged youth and developed a collaborative, performance-based investment approach to help nonprofits achieve greater impact.

Former Strategies

  1. Blue Meridian Partners - Philanthropic model for funding scalable solutions
  2. Youth Development Fund - Invested in programs with evidence they help youth get education, employment, and avoid trouble
  3. PropelNext - Helped nonprofits develop data-driven practices for continuous improvement

Former Funding Approach

  • Made large, long-term investments (multi-million dollar, multi-year commitments)
  • Frequently partnered with other funders
  • Focused on programs with proven outcomes and growth potential
  • Did not accept unsolicited proposals even when active

Contact Information

Last Updated: November 2025 Research Status: Foundation confirmed as not accepting new applications as of their 2018 announcement

References

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