President's Message

Applied research of the type performed by the majority of scientific institutions has an important place in science and technological innovation and most major funding agencies grant the bulk of their dollars to projects and organizations that produce short-term, concrete outcomes.

The Santa Fe Institute’s commitment to theoretical research is the necessary complement. We are the Petri dish, so to speak, where tomorrow’s innovations are born. Our work makes scientific and technological progress possible. Without theoretical research, science will not advance. In today’s results-driven world it may be difficult for most to appreciate this. That is why we need forward-thinking, independent, sophisticated individuals such as you who understand the critical need for this work.

We have established a funding goal of $50 million. Once we reach this amount the institute will have financial sustainability and, for the first time in our history, the ability to clearly focus on the important work that we must do.

This is a critical time for our scientific research community. Please honor us with your generous contribution.

Geoffrey West, President

Be Part of the Work at SFI

Funding for SFI's activities and research comes from a number of sources including government grants, private institutional grants and contributions from individuals who believe in the SFI mission.

You are invited to become part of the Santa Fe Institute community. This is a vibrant group of curious, engaged people and organizations that are committed to transcending traditional boundaries that constrain thinking in science and society. Every researcher, student, board member and every contributor to the Institute plays a role in maintaining the vitality and impact of the Institute.

Your help is particularly important in the present environment, as there is urgent need to continue scientific research in the areas of climate change, economic systems, terrorism and the spread of disease.

These problems are profound, and everyone at SFI are both humbled and energized by the challenges they pose. Such a dramatic increase in global issues means it is more essential than ever to invest in the future and attract more top minds possessing the confidence and intelligence to face existing paradigms in a deep and thoughtful manner.

The Santa Fe Institute is a non-profit private research institute, and donations to the Institute are tax-deductible. The Institute is financed by contributions from individuals, foundations, corporations and certain government programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my gift make a difference?
Yes! Every gift is greatly appreciated - large or small. Maintaining our status as a leading research institute requires continuous investment. Ultimately, every gift matters, and the power of giving is greatest when many contribute collectively. In many cases, the more individual donors the Institute has, the better it can compete for additional foundation and government funding.

How much should I contribute?
The size of one's gift is a very personal decision. An individual's personal capacity to make a gift - combined with their respect and admiration for the work of the Institute - often are the primary factors in determining an individual's annual contribution. The next section outlines broad giving categories that will direct your gift to the level of support most meaningful to you.

Why should I give to SFI?
It is difficult for anyone to tell you how to give your philanthropic dollar. We suggest examining what you value. Look at the organizations with which you've come into contact and that have been meaningful to you. If you appreciate the importance of independent scientific inquiry that cuts across boundaries then you may well find supporting the SFI to be a very satisfying experience.

Is information on this site tax advice?
SFI Development web pages are not intended as tax advice. Know that individual financial circumstances require specific professional guidance. Please contact your legal and financial advisors to see how these general issues apply to you.

Give now!

Click here to donate now to the Santa Fe Institute.

General Support / Annual Giving Fund

Provocative, unorthodox thinking is the hallmark of the Santa Fe Institute. You are invited to be part of this unique organization, as it faces the urgent challenges of our times. Read more...

The 25th Anniversary Fund

Reaching the quarter-century milestone is a reflection of the organizational strength and impact of the Institute. So much has been accomplished since this unique effort was begun in 1984. In honor of this important anniversary, SFI has created a special 25th Anniversary Fund to help secure its current and ongoing financial foundation, and to improve and increase key programs. Read more...

Sustaining Circle

Are you different? Do you see the world like everyone else, or do you wonder about connections beneath the surface, links that others might not perceive? Read more...

Legacy and Planning Giving

Discover the benefits of gift planning. You can name the Institute as a beneficiary of gifts such as bequests, retirement funds and insurance policies and life income gifts such as charitable remainder trusts and charitable remainder annuity trusts. Some planned gifts allow donors to enjoy tax and income benefits during their lifetimes while making a significant commitment to the Institute. Read more...

Join the Business Network

The Business Network is the Institute's corporate affiliates program. The Network affords organizations the opportunity to interact with researchers, and each other, in the quest for knowledge. Read more...

Contact the Development Office

Development Office
Santa Fe Institute
1399 Hyde Park Road
Santa Fe, NM 87501

Tel: 505-946-3678

or .