The 80|20 Foundation’s name might clue you in that you’re dealing with a metrics-driven, tech-focused organization. This foundation stands out not only because of its cloud computing roots but also because of its city-specific focus on San Antonio.
Here’s what local groups should know about the 80|20 Foundation and how to approach this funder for a grant.
80|20’s founder
The founder of the 80|20 Foundation is Graham Weston, co-founder and chairman of Rackspace Hosting. Weston’s personal mission is to “build a city that my kids are proud to call home.” He was born and raised in the San Antonio area. Unlike many philanthropic organizations backed by tech fortunes, this one keeps things local in San Antonio (rather than in California).
San Antonio, Texas has shown promise as an entrepreneurial hub because of its many degree programs, varied educational offerings and burgeoning tech industry. Dynamic urban spaces and multi-modal transportation also play a part.
Everything the 80|20 Foundation does revolves around investing in San Antonio’s future and building up local entrepreneurs and the local workforce. The foundation’s name references its approach of investing in what it characterizes as the 20% of nonprofits driving 80% of social impact.
Recent work
The 80|20 Foundation publishes news articles on its website highlighting recent work to inform prospective grantseekers. Recently, the funder has been focused on boosting transportation infrastructure in San Antonio.
For example, it awarded a grant to ActivateSA to promote transportation advocacy efforts to make the city friendlier for walkers, bikers and public transportation. The foundation is interested in expanding protected bike lanes, preventing cycling deaths and attracting graduate students to startup companies in San Antonio. Not just limited to tech startups, the foundation has been involved with San Antonio’s performing arts organizations and public and charter schools as well.
Applying for 80|20 support
The 80|20 Foundation is accessible and open to grantseeker contact. Graham Weston runs the foundation’s advisory committee, and there are two other team members. Alexandra Frey has been the executive director since 2016, and Kaitlyn Jones has been the placemaking and community development manager since 2022.
Grantseekers can apply for funding from the 80|20 Foundation directly on the funder’s website. It supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits in San Antonio but does not fund over 49% of a given program or project’s budget. The online form is straightforward to complete, and you can reach the foundation team by email with any questions.
To learn more about this funder, check out IP’s full profile of the 80|20 Foundation in our Texas grants guide.
