Arthur F. and Alice E. Adams Foundation Grant

The Arthur F. and Alice E. Adams Charitable Foundation was created in 1985 by Alice (“Elise”) Adams to honor the philanthropic interests of both herself and her late husband, Arthur F. Adams. Arthur was an entrepreneur known for his leadership of the Strowger Automatic Electric Company in Chicago, which pioneered the development and patenting of the dial telephone. Elise Adams, born in Istanbul and educated across Europe, was multilingual and committed her later years to philanthropic endeavors after Arthur’s death in 1958. The foundation continues their legacy by supporting nonprofit organizations through the management services of Wells Fargo Trust Philanthropic Services. The foundation’s funding objectives focus primarily on arts, culture, humanities, and education. Grantmaking is geographically concentrated in the metropolitan areas of Memphis, Miami, and New York City. The foundation exclusively considers project sponsorships and does not fund general operating expenses, capital campaigns, or endowments. Eligible projects may include innovative programs, performances, and publications that align with the foundation’s focus areas. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations to be considered. Applications are accepted year-round, but to be reviewed at the annual spring meeting, submissions must be received by February 15, 2026. Projects submitted for consideration must be scheduled to start at least 12 months after the deadline, meaning no earlier than February 15, 2027. Organizations that have received prior funding must wait one full year from the date of fund distribution before applying again. Multi-year grants are not prohibited but are discouraged and rarely approved, and grants over $50,000 are generally not awarded. The foundation does not impose strict geographic restrictions but maintains a practice of supporting efforts in Miami, Memphis, and New York City. Although proposals from outside these areas are not explicitly barred, they are less likely to be successful. Grantees are expected to submit a progress report within six months of receiving funds unless otherwise stated at the time of award. Applicants may begin the process online and will receive confirmation via automated email upon submission. For additional assistance or questions regarding the grant or application process, interested parties may contact the foundation via email at grantadministration@wellsfargo.com or by phone at 1-888-235-4351. All communications and submissions are managed through Wells Fargo Wealth Management.