The Firstenburg Foundation continues the philanthropic legacy of Edward William (E.W.) Firstenburg, founder of the First Independent Bank, and his wife Mary, by investing in non-profits organizations that make measurable improvements to the economic conditions and quality of life within the communities of Southwest Washington (Clark, Cowlitz, Skamania and Klickitat counties) and the city of Portland, Oregon; areas formerly served by the Bank.

The Foundation supports programs and special projects as well as some capital campaigns, but generally does not provide funding for operating expenses or staff positions. It also does not typically fund start-up or demonstration programs. Multi-year commitments ; usually not more than three years, may also be made.