The Calamus Foundation
The Calamus Foundation is a New York private foundation that supports LGBT organizations and non‑LGBT groups that advance social, racial, and economic justice. The official site lists the mission, board of directors, grantee partners and provides a contact email ([email protected]).
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Small-to-midsize nonprofits working on LGBTQ+ advocacy, racial justice, or broader social justice causes, especially those requesting general operating support and with visibility in NY/CA networks or national LGBTQ+ policy circles.
Good Fit
- • Clear mission alignment with LGBTQ+ advocacy or racial/social/economic justice.
- • Requesting general operating support rather than highly restricted project funding.
- • Established credibility or connections within New York or California nonprofit networks.
- • Evidence of organizational capacity and standing (board, track record) that would surface in curated, invitation-based selections.
Geography
In the latest year grants went to organizations in six different states and past years show multi-state giving, so the observed footprint is multi-state rather than strictly local.
Recipient Variety
The foundation funded many distinct independent recipients (11 in 2024 and 17 in 2022) with no evidence of a small repeating circle, indicating a broad recipient set for its size.
New Applicants
Behaviorally the foundation funds many new organizations each year, but it publicly states it only funds preselected applicants; direct evidence of an open application route is absent, so unfamiliar applicants may find it difficult to enter without networked introduction.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
