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Philip E. & Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation

Affecting Global Change, Locally

The Philip E. & Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation, Inc. (Ratcliffe Foundation) operates as a charitable organization designed to expand economic opportunity, entrepreneurship and job creation in local communities.

Based in Annapolis Maryland, the Ratcliffe Foundation provides funds to colleges and other non-profit organizations that support job creation; with a focus on filling gaps in the labor market through skilled trades training or entrepreneurship. The Ratcliffe Foundation strives to integrate its programs with the local communities through internships, apprenticeships and local stakeholder involvement.

Dollars Donated...and Counting

Programs Supported...and Growing

Featured Initiatives

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Featured Program

Ferry Cove Project, LLC

We are pleased to announce the opening of Ferry Cove Oyster hatchery. This is one of Maryland’s only private hatcheries focused on producing oyster larvae and seed to support Maryland’s iconic oyster industry.

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Our Priorities

We only award grants to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations in the US.

The Ratcliffe Foundation supports academic institutions and other non-profit organizations who are working to prepare the next generation of workers and entrepreneurs. We are particularly interested in innovative projects to serve communities through job creation and skilled trades training.

Industries may include construction trades, manufacturing, automotive, allied healthcare, agriculture, and other “in demand” jobs in the region. We believe that partnerships with local stakeholders including businesses, elected officials and  community leaders are essential to long-term sustainable growth. Programs may  include, but are not limited to, hands-on training, classroom instruction, internships, and apprenticeships.

They must support local and/or regional economies with participants residing, working, planning to work, or planning to launch their new venture within the local/regional community. New grant programs must be located and serving residents in Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania or Washington D.C.; and the program must be designed
for adult learners prepared to enter the local workforce upon completion of the program.

What We Typically Fund

The Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation provides grant funds to US based not-for-profit institutions to foster entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic growth.  Programs include industries ranging from the arts & aquaculture to the skilled trades.  Many of the institutions provide training and seed funds to support innovation and new venture creation.

What We Do Not Fund

The Philip E. and Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation does not provide grant funding to individuals, For-profit businesses, political organization, K-12 education systems, and programs that do not align with our mission. We also do not fund any organization outside the United States.

Our Programs Make A Significant Community Impact