The Samuel and Saidye Bronfman Family Foundation
# The Samuel and Saidye Bronfman Family Foundation

The Samuel and Saidye Bronfman Family Foundation is a private Canadian foundation providing grants to support the community sector. The foundation was established in 1952 as a means by which members of the Bronfman family could combine their philanthropic endeavours.

## Past and present initiatives

### Cultural Management Development

Supports initiatives that improve the governance and management of non-profit organisations committed to art and heritage.

### Urban Issues

Provides grants to community-oriented initiatives that improve the living conditions for residents in urban areas of Canada. Over the years, the Foundation funded several Canadian urban development projects through its Urban Issues Program including transportation planning in Ottawa, street theatre in Montreal, and community development certificate programs in Halifax. One of the most innovative of the projects was Dummies Theatre, which staged free theatrical performances in vacant urban storefronts to draw attention to the historical significance and social potential of these spaces.

### Futures

Supports research to identify new ways and opportunities for philanthropy.

### Special initiatives

Provides small grants for new or established organizations wishing to launch a new project that was not part of their main activities.

In addition to the above, the foundation provides funding to the Segal Centre for Performing Arts. In 2007, the Saidye Bronfman Award was placed under the banner of the Governor General’s Awards as a result of a CAD1.5 million endowment made to the Canada Council by the Samuel and Saidye Bronfman Family Foundation. It is the only prize reserved for artists and artisans working in the fine crafts.

