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The Wolfson Foundation was established in 1955.

A short historical essay including a list of major grants made, produced to commemorate the Foundation’s 50th anniversary, can be downloaded from this site.
Four particular factors have influenced grant-making from its inception. First, Trustees have always aimed to back excellence (both existing and potential) usually by the provision of infrastructure through which it can flourish. Secondly, they have continually sought to identify and support important areas that are under-funded. Thirdly, applicants have been encouraged to use Wolfson funds as a catalyst, so that the Foundation’s funding can lever additional support. Fourthly, from the start collaboration has been sought with other expert bodies. Fruitful partnerships have included the country’s leading academic institutions (notably the Royal Society and British Academy), government departments, other grantmaking trusts, such as the Wellcome Trust, and charities ranging from the Council for the Care of Churches to Help the Hospices.