Building thriving and resilient communities in the Pacific Northwest and beyond

When we each do our part, we create the foundation for collective wellbeing where creativity, future generations, and nature can flourish.
A person sits in a chair on a stage, lit by overhead lighting, and playing a large string instrument.
Photo courtesy Shunpike

Arts & Culture

Art ignites curiosity, unlocking deeper insights about ourselves, each other, and the world around us. We support organizations that champion and uplift diverse ideas, cultures, and traditions, fostering a rich tapestry of perspectives that drive innovation and connection.

Youth

Youth are not just our future; they are our today. We invest in organizations helping youth discover their passions and act on issues they care about. We’re rallying resources to support intergenerational mentoring to put youth in positions of leadership, building a better future not just for young people, but for everyone.

A young person speaks into a microphone in front of a blurred crowd of other young people, they wear a purple head-wrap and a scarf with a flower pattern.
An aerial view of a heavily forested area with a layer of mist hanging over it.

Environment

We believe communities can be vectors of change at all levels for combatting biodiversity loss and supporting the environment. We invest in community-driven solutions that leverage science and technology to protect wildlife and habitats.

Five figures stand outdoors on a sunny day, wearing elaborate, colorful dresses with long trains in blue, yellow, and white. Each model wears an ornate headpiece. The Seattle Waterfront is visible in the background."
Photo courtesy Friends of Waterfront Park

About Us

Founded in 1988 by Jody Allen and the late Paul G. Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, Allen Family Philanthropies (formerly known as the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation) invests in communities across the Pacific Northwest and beyond to strengthen arts and culture, empower the next generation of changemakers, and support a global network of partners working to advance biodiversity and human well-being. In addition to its core program areas of arts & culture, youth, and environment the foundation contributes to a wide range of sponsorships and community grants across Washington state.

3

Core program areas: arts & culture, youth, and the environment

$260.16M

Active grants in all program areas, including communities and bioscience

369

Grantees over the last 10 years (2016-2026)

$523.5M

Dollars granted over the last 10 years (2016-2026)

Recent News

Read the stories of the ordinary and extraordinary people making change every day, discover new funding opportunities, and explore other news from our grantees and team.

Arts & Culture
Youth
 Photo Credit Ismail Ferdous National Geographic
Photo Credit Ismail Ferdous National Geographic
Press Releases

Launching National Geographic Photo Camp Series for Youth Across Washington State

Environment
DAS-News 2-640w
Photo courtesy UW Bothell
Stories

Tuning In: How distributed acoustic sensing is transforming orca conservation in the PNW

With less than 75 Southern Resident orcas remaining in the Pacific Northwest, studying, understanding, and protecting this endangered population is urgent.

Arts & Culture
ChamberofConnection Group 1100x619
Stories

A new blueprint for connection takes root in Seattle

The Chamber of Connection’s Seattle Chapter is leading the way to a more connected society, a fundamental need for thriving communities.

Youth
rtypf 640w
Press Releases

Responsible Technology Youth Power Fund Announces $1.9 Million in Grants to Third Cohort of Youth-led Organizations

This fund's focus is power-sharing in grantmaking, inviting young leaders to move from recipients to decision-makers

Keep in Touch

We’re excited to connect with you and share regular updates across our arts and culture, environment, and youth programs. Sign up to hear about new RFPs, grantee news, and updates from the Allen Family Philanthropies team.