The Mormon Scholars Foundation was organized in 2007 with two overarching purposes: to encourage emerging Latter-day Saint scholars, and to improve the understanding of Mormonism among academics and the educated public.  The Foundation sponsors conferences, lectures, and an annual summer seminar on themes related to Joseph Smith and the Restoration.

Although the foundation's activities are centered on Mormon life and thought, the Foundation has no official connection with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.