Lowy Foundation
About
The Lowy Foundation is a private ancillary fund established by the Lowy family in Australia. It is a broad-based charitable organization that makes significant philanthropic contributions across Australia, internationally, and specifically in Israel, supporting diverse causes aligned with the family's interests.
Tips for Applicants
The Lowy Foundation typically operates through an invitation-only model and does not accept unsolicited grant applications. Prospective organizations should focus on establishing warm introductions and demonstrating a clear alignment with the foundation's established priorities, such as policy and research, fellowships, or Jewish and Israel-related initiatives.
Giving Philosophy
The Lowy family's giving philosophy, as articulated by Frank Lowy, is 'When you have a little, give a little. When you have a lot, give a lot.' They believe in actively engaging in community service and supporting causes they are passionate about. The foundation primarily operates on a relationship-based model, extending grants by invitation only and generally not accepting unsolicited proposals.
Notable Grants
Giving History
Programs & Opportunities (7)
6 open · 1 closed · sorted by deadline · last checked 20 June 2026 (2 days ago)
Michael and Deborah Thawley Scholarship in International Security
This scholarship offers an exceptional opportunity for an Australian official, officer, student, or recent graduate to contribute to the work of two leading think tanks: the Lowy Institute in Sydney and the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington DC, focusing on international security and policy. It provides direct exposure to research and policy in international affairs.
Lowy Foundation Research Grants
The Lowy Foundation supports research initiatives in areas including foreign policy, international relations, and other priority areas. Grants are available for researchers and institutions working on relevant topics.
Lowy Foundation Health Grants
The Lowy Foundation provides funding for health-related initiatives and programs. Grants support organisations working to improve health outcomes in Australia and internationally.
Lowy Foundation Community Grants
The Lowy Foundation provides community grants to support organisations working in areas aligned with their philanthropic priorities including arts, community, education, health, and Jewish heritage. These are typically one-off grants for specific projects or programs.
Lowy Foundation Arts and Culture Grants
The Lowy Foundation provides grants to support arts and cultural organisations and projects. Funding supports creative initiatives that enrich Australian cultural life.
Distinguished International Fellowship
This fellowship brings an internationally recognised intellectual and policy leader to Australia to help deepen debate on global issues. The fellow undertakes an extensive program of meetings, speeches, and media appearances. This is an invitation-only program.
Lowy Foundation Education Grants
The Lowy Foundation supports educational programs and initiatives. Funding is available for organisations working in the education sector to improve outcomes for students and communities.