The Charles Edison Fund is an endowed philanthropic institution focusing on supporting endeavors in science and technology education, medical research, and preserving the Edison legacy. It builds on the philanthropy of Charles Edison, aiming to maintain Thomas Edison's legacy and fulfill Charles's philanthropic goals.
The Fund primarily supports educational programs, particularly those that further science and technology education, medical research, and efforts to preserve the Edison legacy. It operates as a seed money organization, initiating projects that would not start without its contribution. Historically, the Fund has donated over $35 million to various charitable, scientific, and educational organizations and projects. Although it extends its support broadly, there's a consistent pattern in its giving, focusing equally on medical research, science and technology education, and the preservation of the Edison legacy, with a significant geographical focus on the New York-New Jersey Metropolitan area.