Mote Scientific Foundation Incorporated
This organization is a private foundation dedicated to supporting various charitable causes, with a strong emphasis on marine life conservation and environmental protection. It funds organizations that focus on marine sanctuaries, manatee protection, and general conservation efforts, reflecting its commitment to preserving marine ecosystems. Additionally, the foundation supports youth development initiatives and addresses food insecurity through grants to community organizations. Its funding primarily benefits charities located in Florida and Illinois, highlighting a regional focus on these areas.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A mid‑sized nonprofit with programs in marine or environmental conservation, marine education, manatee protection, or related community services—preferably active in Florida and connected to the region’s conservation network.
Good Fit
- • Programs focused on marine conservation, marine education, or manatee protection.
- • A strong program presence or operational base in Florida (regional alignment).
- • Existing relationships or partnerships with organizations already in the foundation’s portfolio.
- • Requests sized similarly to past awards (many grants in the $10k–$50k range with occasional larger awards).
Geography
Grants appeared in four states in the latest year but were regionally concentrated: roughly 62% of dollars went to Florida while Illinois received a smaller but steady share, indicating a regional (state‑level) footprint rather than national reach.
Recipient Variety
The foundation funded 25–34 distinct organizations each year and had 27 separate recipients in the latest year, showing a fairly broad and diverse recipient set for its size despite the top five recipients receiving a substantial share of dollars.
New Applicants
Behaviorally the funder added new grantees (12 new recipients in the latest year and 17 new in the prior year), so unfamiliar organizations have been funded; however, the funder explicitly restricts awards to preselected applicants and has no public application portal, so entry appears possible but likely requires introductions or intermediary relationships.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
