Lenz Foundation Grants 2003-2023

The Foundation draws its inspiration from Rama – Dr. Frederick Lenz and his groundbreaking work to establish a uniquely American form of Buddhism. In particular, we have developed a community- and capacity-building strategy that reflects his special insights into the role Buddhist principles and practices play in transforming the lives of individuals, thus shaping an enlightened American society and culture. We provide general-assistance and restricted grants, program-related investments, education and training and other programs designed to grow and strengthen the emerging community of American Buddhist institutions.

The Foundation, since inception, has provided grants to over 170 unique organizations for a total funding of close to $8.0 million.

What We Fund

The Foundation funds transformative nonprofit organizations that are dedicated to reshaping their fields by applying and disseminating Buddhist principles and practices in their work. In particular, we are interested in the following funding general themes:

This chart displays our grant categories and provides additional detail regarding the themes listed below.
This chart displays all grant categories
Icon showing a community of people.

Community

Growing and strengthening American Buddhist organizations and sanghas.

Icon showing three stylized figures working collaboratively hand-in-hand.

Collaboration

Joint programs among American Buddhist groups, plus cross-sector collaborations with aligned non-Buddhist organizations.

hands holding a growing plant

Capacity-Building

Fundraising and organizational development infrastructure designed to help American Buddhist organizations achieve scale and sustainability

A figure seated in a meditating position.

Meditation

Applying and disseminating Buddhist contemplative disciplines for personal growth, and in the fields of science, education, health care, and social services

A globe icon showing North, Central and South America.

Living & Working in the World

Incorporating and disseminating Buddhist principles and practices in the areas of work, family, civil society, and popular culture

Hand holding money symbol

Pay It Forward

The Pay It Forward Sustainability Finance Fund is an innovative program designed to assist Lenz Foundation grantees to develop, launch, and sustain major donor campaigns and other high-impact fundraising initiatives that lead to financial sustainability.

Three female figures with a lotus flower.

Women in Buddhism

Supporting innovation and advancing the cause of women’s leadership in American Buddhist communities and organizations