Endowment: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used to refer to funds or property that are donated to institutions, particularly educational or charitable organizations, where the principal amount is kept intact and only the income generated is used for specific purposes.

• The university's endowment fund supports scholarships for underprivileged students.
• Thanks to a generous endowment, the hospital can now expand its research facilities.

Grants are sums of money given by an organization, especially a government, foundation, or corporation, for a specific purpose such as research, education, or community projects.

• The research team received a grant to study renewable energy sources.
• Small businesses can apply for grants to help them recover from the impact of natural disasters.

This term is commonly used for voluntary giving of money, goods, or time to people in need or to organizations, without expecting anything in return. It is often used in fundraising contexts.

• They made a generous donation to the homeless shelter.
• The charity relies on donations from the public to fund its programs.

A bequest typically refers to the act of leaving assets to someone through a will. It is often used in the context of estate planning and inheritance.

• She made a bequest of her jewelry to her granddaughter.
• His will included a bequest to the local animal shelter.

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Refers to the act of giving something of great value or honor in a formal or ceremonial way.

• The king's bestowal of the knighthood was a moment of great honor for the recipient

Often used in academic or formal settings when an authority grants an official title, degree, or honor.

• The conferment of the honorary doctorate was the highlight of the commencement ceremony

Commonly used in financial or resource distribution, focusing on the process of assigning particular amounts to specific areas or purposes.

• The manager was responsible for the allocation of the annual budget to different departments

Typically used in the context of financial donations that are designed to be invested so that the resulting income can be used for specific purposes, often for institutions like universities or nonprofit organizations.

• The university received a large endowment from an alumnus to fund new scholarships.
• Her endowment to the art museum will help ensure its exhibitions continue for years to come.

General term for any money provided for a particular purpose, often for projects, activities, or organizations, and can come from various sources such as government, private donors, or institutions.

• The research project received funding from several scientific organizations.
• Without additional funding, this community program will have to shut down.

Broad term often used to convey various types of assistance or backing, which can include financial help, but also non-monetary aid like resources, advice, or advocacy.

• The project succeeded thanks to the unwavering support of the local community.
• He provided support in the form of mentoring and resources to help start the business.

Specific type of funding provided by an organization, such as a government, foundation, or corporation, usually for a particular purpose, and often requires an application process.

• She applied for a grant to study abroad next semester.
• The nonprofit received a grant to expand its outreach programs.