THE TRUSTEE FOR BESEN FAMILY FOUNDATION
About
The Besen Family Foundation is a Private Ancillary Fund established in 1978 by philanthropists Eva Besen AO and Dr Marc Besen AC, with a focus on four key pillars: Arts & Culture, Jewish Community, Health & Welfare (Early Childhood Development), and the Environment. The foundation is headquartered in Victoria and involves family members across multiple generations, with grants primarily directed to DGR1 charitable organisations in Victoria and Israel.
Tips for Applicants
Applications are by invitation only, so potential grantees should focus on building relationships with the foundation rather than cold applications. Grants are limited to organisations with DGR1 status and Income Tax Exempt status. Acquittal reports must be submitted within three months of project completion, and previous grantees must acquit grants before submitting subsequent funding applications.
Giving Philosophy
The foundation operates through four grant-making pillars with an emphasis on supporting vulnerable cohorts through both advocacy for systems change and place-based, locally led charities. They aim to build capacity, strengthen community connection, and achieve long-term impact rather than short-term relief. Their approach includes a gender and climate lens overlay across all programs, and they prioritised innovative projects that challenge disciplinary boundaries. The foundation is invitation-only, suggesting a relationship-driven approach to philanthropy.
Notable Grants
ACNC Financial History
| Year | Grants Given | Revenue | Total Assets | Net Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FY2023 | $2.3M | $2.0M | $45.6M | $45.5M |
| FY2022 | $8.7M | $1.9M | $43.7M | $43.7M |
| FY2021 | $4.4M | $2.2M | $54.0M | $54.0M |
| FY2020 | $3.1M | $2.7M | $50.5M | $50.5M |
| FY2019 | $2.6M | $2.8M | $54.1M | $53.6M |
| FY2018 | $2.8M | $2.9M | $51.1M | $51.0M |
| FY2017 | $2.4M | $3.3M | $50.4M | $50.3M |
| 7yr total | $26.3M | Source: ACNC Annual Information Statements | ||