The Hugh Fraser Foundation was established in 1960 by Sir Hugh Fraser with shares in House of Fraser and other investments. Trust funds stood at £31.2 million in 2001.

Trustees favour smaller, more focused causes rather than large highly publicised appeals, and tend to make grants to charitable bodies to assist with the charitable work. Grants are often made in successive years in order to maintain their momentum and effectiveness

The Foundation's objects cover a range of areas, but it is concerned principally with the following: hospitals; schools and universities; arts organisations; and organisations working with the handicapped, the underprivileged and the aged.

The Trustees pay special regard to applications from the West of Scotland and from parts of Scotland where the local economy makes fundraising difficult. However, applications from other parts of Scotland are considered.

290 grants totaling £1,178,455 were awarded in 2000-2001, ranging from £1,000 to £100,000.

Only Registered Charities or non-profit making organisations can apply for funds.

Trustees meet quarterly to consider applications