An enduring legacy
Strengthening the quality of life in Saint Paul and the East Metro for 75 years
Legacy of well-being
Established more than 75 years ago, F. R. Bigelow Foundation remains committed to its founding principle of making the Saint Paul community a better place to live, learn and grow. From 1946 through today, the Foundation has invested deeply into neighborhoods across our great city.
The Foundation funds programs and helps shape initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods and downtown Saint Paul, while enhancing the quality of life in the Saint Paul area.
History and mission
History
Frederic Russell Bigelow established F. R. Bigelow Foundation through a trust in 1946. His great love and understanding for the community lives on today.
Mission
The F. R. Bigelow Foundation seeks to enhance the quality of life for all in the greater Saint Paul area, fostering a vibrant East Metro region.
The Foundation will partner, collaborate and invest in opportunities that seek to achieve racially and economically equitable outcomes in the areas of arts & culture, community & economic development, education & youth development, health, housing, and human services.
F. R. Bigelow Foundation’s support goes well beyond program funding. The foundation has deep involvement and investment in initiatives that are reshaping Saint Paul, including the Linking Leaders Initiative.
Grants given in 2022
Supporting programming in housing, human services, community development and more
Dollars awarded
In 2022, F. R. Bigelow Foundation awarded $7.8 million in grants to East Metro nonprofits
Shares of Fire & Marine Insurance
The Foundation was created with 1,500 shares of the company that became Travelers Insurance
What we fund
Creating an unsurpassed quality of life in Saint Paul is our purpose and passion. Find out if the work you do aligns with our vision for this great city Fredrick Russell Bigelow called home.