Pony Barnes Foundation
Preselected recipients only
Pony Barnes Foundation is a private foundation in Sacramento, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $4.7 million in 3 grants; the typical grant was $1.5 million and the largest $2.5 million. It only gives to organizations it selects itself and does not accept unsolicited applications.
From its IRS Form 990-PF for tax year 2025.
- Grants paid, 2025$4.7 million
- Number of grants3
- Typical grant$1.5 million
- Largest grant$2.5 million
- Assets$0
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $98,000 | 8 | $4.5 million |
| 2024 | $0 | 0 | $4.7 million |
| 2025 | $4.7 million | 3 | $0 |
How to apply
Pony Barnes Foundation says in its IRS filing that it only makes contributions to preselected organizations, so unsolicited applications are unlikely to be considered. Organizations it funds are usually invited.
Foundation website IRS filings on ProPublica
What Pony Barnes Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 3 states, the most to California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 1 | $2.5 million |
| District of Columbia | 1 | $1.5 million |
| Indiana | 1 | $694,695 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| The Tower Foundation of San Jose Un | To support teacher training and educational programs | $2.5 million |
| Jane Goodall Institute | To support the Roots and Shoots Program | $1.5 million |
| American Camping Association Inc | To support camp scholarships | $694,695 |
Officers and trustees
- Marion Soloway
- Carl Garrubba
- Grace Clark
- Steven Lei
Questions people ask
Does Pony Barnes Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Pony Barnes Foundation give?
$4.7 million in tax year 2025, across 3 grants, with a typical grant of $1.5 million.
Who runs Pony Barnes Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Marion Soloway (President/ED), Carl Garrubba (Treasurer), Grace Clark (Vice President) and Steven Lei (Director).
What does Pony Barnes Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education and youth programs.