Smith Richardson Foundation Incorporated
The Smith Richardson Foundation (SRF) is a private foundation focused on public policy; its website states a mission to contribute to public debates and address serious U.S. public policy challenges, and highlights programs in International Security & Foreign Policy and Domestic Public Policy.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Established policy research organizations, think tanks, or university centers working on international security/foreign policy or domestic public policy, seeking general operating or research support on a national scale.
Good Fit
- • Work focused on international security, foreign policy, or domestic public policy research.
- • Track record of producing research, analysis, or policy-relevant publications.
- • Organizational scale consistent with six-figure grants and general operating support.
- • Willingness to submit a written proposal with IRS exemption documentation on a rolling schedule.
- • Capacity to engage with program officers or named contacts.
Geography
Giving in the observed years reached recipients in about 27 states (and some Canadian entries), indicating a national footprint; however, a large share of dollars concentrates in Washington, DC (around 46%).
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows roughly 200 distinct recipients and many independent research institutions rather than a tiny closed circle, and top-grantee shares are small (top one ~2%, top five ~8%).
New Applicants
Direct evidence of turnover exists (about 99 new recipients in the latest year) and the foundation publishes application instructions with a rolling submission process and named contact, so unfamiliar applicants appear plausibly able to enter the portfolio.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
