Michael Heller Charitable Foundation

The Michael Heller Charitable Foundation, established in 1988 by Sir Michael Heller and Lady Morven Heller, is a family-led UK charity governed by a small board of family trustees, including Lady Morven Heller and their children. Its core mission centers on deploying capital and income at trustees' discretion for high-impact charitable purposes, with a primary emphasis on medical and scientific research, education, and initiatives advancing human health and public understanding. Rooted in the founders' philanthropic vision, it embodies personal stewardship, targeted giving, and a blend of heritage-driven support for Jewish community causes alongside broader scientific and cultural advancements.

The foundation prioritizes specific, time-limited projects in medical innovation, scientific research, education, and cultural enrichment, benefiting patients, researchers, students, and communities. Notable grants support organizations like Magen David Adom for medical care in Israel, the National Portrait Gallery for art acquisitions, Hampstead Theatre, London Jewish Cultural Centre, and British ORT for Jewish education. It favors high-profile, established initiatives yielding significant public or scientific benefits over general operations.

Eligible applicants are limited to UK-registered charities and academic institutions, with a preference for medium-to-large entities demonstrating proven impact; grassroots or emerging groups are not typically supported. Primarily UK-focused but open to international projects with Jewish, medical, or scientific ties, it accepts only invited proposals—no unsolicited applications, forms, or deadlines exist, with ad hoc trustee decisions.

Typical grants range from £5,000 to £100,000 (most £10,000–£50,000), funding projects, capital needs, or occasional core support for select beneficiaries. Distinctive for its proactive, relationship-driven approach without staff or public processes, it avoids emergency aid, capacity-building, or unrestricted operating costs, setting it apart as discreet family philanthropy for reputable, outcome-oriented organizations.