In a world facing rising mental health challenges, deepening polarization, and environmental crises, the dialogue between science and contemplative wisdom has never been more vital. The Mind & Life Institute Endowment ensures this work endures beyond any single leader, funding cycle, or generation—for the flourishing of all beings, for generations to come.
“Mind & Life’s work has been unprecedented… especially in promoting a scientific understanding of the human mind through a unique combination of research and contemplative practice. It has brought about a fresh focus on interconnection. Its programs give me hope for the future.”
—His Holiness the Dalai Lama
What the Endowment Sustains
The Endowment provides permanent support for Mind & Life’s four cornerstone programs:
- International Dialogues—Transformative exchanges between contemplative traditions and the sciences, exemplifying the spirit of open inquiry fostered by His Holiness.
- Summer Research Institute—A vital platform for cultivating new generations of contemplative scientists and scholars, with over 3,000 participants since 2003.
- Research Grants—Including the signature Francisco J. Varela Grants, catalyzing groundbreaking research at the intersection of science and contemplative practice.
- Public Dissemination—Sharing insights from science and contemplative traditions through our digital library, podcast, and educational resources.
A Milestone and an Invitation
In 1987, three visionaries came together in Dharamsala, India: Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama; Francisco Varela, a neuroscientist and philosopher; and Adam Engle, a lawyer and entrepreneur. They shared a powerful question: what impact could be achieved through combining scientific and philosophical inquiry with the transformative power of contemplative wisdom?
What began as an intimate gathering sparked a profound exchange of ideas—and launched a journey that would reshape our understanding of the mind. In the decades since, Mind & Life’s dialogues, research grants, and programs have expanded the horizons of scientific inquiry, fostering a deeper appreciation of the mind’s role in human flourishing.
Now, in response to His Holiness’s expressed wish that this work endures well into the next century, we invite you to help secure its future. This milestone—his 90th year—is a collective invitation to help ensure Mind & Life’s impact for generations to come.
Why an Endowment Matters
While annual funding fuels today’s programs, endowment gifts safeguard Mind & Life’s signature programs and creative growth over time. The Endowment ensures the freedom to evolve—protecting our ability to stay true to our mission and values, no matter what the future brings.
Join Us
Your gift to the Mind & Life Institute Endowment becomes part of a continuum—linking compassion, understanding, and future generations in service of a more flourishing world.
To explore ways to contribute or discuss a major gift, please contact advancement@mindandlife.org
