The mission of the Hardenbergh Foundation, initially established by Ianthe Hardenbergh and her daughter Gabrielle Hardenbergh in 1950, is to support a variety of causes including health care, senior housing, education, community services, and the support of the arts. With a geographical focus on the East Metro, Ramsey and Washington Counties, and the St. Croix River Valley, the Foundation aims to address the needs of these communities by providing financial support to charitable organizations working within these areas.
The Hardenbergh Foundation awards approximately 100 grants annually, primarily for general operating support to help sustain charitable organizations in their mission. These grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000. While the Foundation does not usually make long-term commitments, it is noted that many organizations receive support repeatedly over the years. Additionally, the Foundation allocates a few capital grants each year, ranging from $50,000 to $250,000, often to organizations that have previously received general operating support. Capital grants are generally disbursed in full in the year they are approved, indicating a focus on substantive, immediate impact projects.