Discover our history, mission, and the dedicated individuals who made our work possible.
The Soudavar Memorial Foundation is committed to creating lasting positive impact through education, community development, and support for innovative projects. We believe that by investing in people and communities, we can help build a better future for all.
Founded by a family with a long history of philanthropy, the Soudavar Memorial Foundation was formally established in 2001 and follows on the lifelong commitment to the arts, culture and heritage of Iran by Fereidoun Soudavar (1908-1997) and his wife, Massoumeh Amir-Alai.
Our founder was a visionary leader whose passion for education and cultural exchange shaped the very foundation of our mission. Their dedication to fostering understanding between different cultures continues to inspire our work today.
The Soudavar Memorial Foundation was established as part of the estate of its founder, the industrialist Fereidoun Soudavar
In its 1st year, the foundation delivered its first few grants to projects related to contemporary and historical art
The Idea of Iran, SMF's flagship program of symposia and publications established in partnership with SOAS
The celebration including a panel discussion by eminent scholars chaired by SMF board member Abolala Soudavar and a musical performance
A new generation of Soudavar family members joins the board of trustees of the foundation
Inspired by the lifelong commitment to the arts, culture and heritage of Iran demonstrated by the late Fereidoun Soudavar (1908-1997) and his wife, Massoumeh Amir-Alai (?-?), the Soudavar Memorial Foundation was established in 2001 by members of the wider family to continue his legacy in the field of Iranian and Persian studies .
