Raman Family Foundation

OVERVIEW: The Raman Family Foundation primarily funds grantmaking related to Indian causes, human services, the arts, education, and the environment.

IP TAKE: The foundation lacks transparency, which limits information available on its grantmaking priorities and activities.

Perhaps more funds will go towards the couple’s established interest areas in the coming years. Mala works in the health and fitness space, which may come into play in the family’s giving down the line.

PROFILE: Established in 2002, the Raman Family Foundation was established by tech veteran Suri Raman and his wife Mala, a health and fitness entrepreneur. Suri Raman graduated from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras in 1988. He joined Microsoft Corporation in 1988, and held titles such as software design engineer, software architect, and distinguished engineer. Raman was also a VP and distinguished engineer at Amazon. He’s currently a technical fellow at Microsoft.

The foundation does not maintain a website, which limits information available on its grantmaking priorities and activities. According to tax records, the David and Raman Family Foundation primarily funds grantmaking related to Indian causes, human services, the arts, education, and the environment.

Grants for the Indian Diaspora and Global Development

The Ramans support API Chaya, including its work in women’s welfare. Other grantees have included India Association of Western Washington (IAWW); Ophthalmic Mission Trust and work towards elderly eye-care in India; and Asha for Education.

Grants for Community Development

Mala is involved with United Way of King County, which the family steadily supports. Other grantees have included Crisis Connections; FareStart, which deals with homeless job training; Mercer Island Youth and Family Services Foundation; and The Sophia Way, which supports homeless women.

Grants for Arts and Culture

Grantees have included Youth Theatre Northwest, Seattle Art Museum, NPR Foundation, and KCTS.

Important Grant Details:

Grants range from $500 to $25,000. In a recent fiscal year, the foundation gave away $109,000. Past grantees include India Association of Western Washington (IAWW), Youth Theatre Northwest, Seattle University, and Washington Trails Association.

The foundation keeps a low profile and does not accept unsolicited proposals.

PEOPLE:

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CONTACT:

Raman Family Foundation
8212 Avalon Dr.
Mercer Island, WA 98040