The Esmée Fairbairn Foundation is a grant-making trust that aims to improve the quality of life in the UK through funding a range of projects and charities.

It was formed in 1961 by Ian Fairbain in memory of his wife. It was endowed from the majority of his shares in M&G along with contributions from his two sons. In 1999 the Foundation sold its holding in M&G when the company was taken over Prudential Corporation Plc and its endowment grew significantly making it one of the largest independent grant-making organisations in the UK.

Income 2011: £12,205,000