W. M. Keck Foundation


The W. M. Keck Foundation is dedicated to creating far-reaching benefits for humanity through support of outstanding science, engineering, medical research, arts, culture, education, health, and community projects, with a focus on high-impact, innovative, and potentially transformative initiatives. Established in 1954 by William Myron Keck, the foundation emphasizes pioneering discoveries, systems change, and addressing complex issues, especially in under-resourced communities in Southern California.

Industries

biotechnology
education
human-resources

Nr. of Employees

small (1-50)

W. M. Keck Foundation

Los Angeles, California, United States, North America


Services

Competitive funding for pioneering, high‑risk research projects in medical research and science & engineering, awarded through a two‑phase application process.

Regional grant program supporting projects in arts & culture, civic/community services, early childhood, health care, and pre-collegiate education with emphasis on under-resourced Los Angeles County communities.

Occasional, large-scale grants initiated by the board for projects with potential for major impact on a field or region, including capital projects and multi-institution initiatives.

Pre-application concept counseling, application guidance, downloadable instructions/templates, and portal technical assistance for applicants and grantees.

Expertise Areas

  • Grantmaking program design and administration
  • Research funding for medical, science and engineering projects
  • Regional philanthropy for community, arts, education and health
  • Grant compliance, financial controls, and reporting
  • Show More (3)

Key Technologies

  • Online grant management portal
  • Grantee reporting portal
  • Unmanned aircraft environmental sampling
  • Air pollutant chemical characterization
  • Show More (4)

News & Updates

The W. M. Keck Foundation supports wildfire recovery and rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles, with grants totaling over $4.5 million, supporting schools, displaced workers, families, childcare, emotional recovery, and legal aid.

The foundation invests in understanding downstream effects of wildfires, supporting research on microbial dispersal, wildfire smoke effects, indoor air pollution, and long-term environmental impacts.

Immediate relief grants totaling $2 million for wildfire-affected communities, supporting emergency services, healthcare, local nonprofits, food services, and community rebuilding.

Research funded by the foundation at the University of Texas, Southwestern, uncovered functions of pseudoenzymes, including a COVID virus gene, leading to potential antiviral drug development.

Research at the University of California, Irvine, characterized lipocartilage cells, revealing their role in cartilage biomechanics and potential for regenerative medicine.

The foundation has committed over $4.5 million in grants for wildfire recovery efforts, supporting various community organizations and relief initiatives.


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