Shams Foundation
Preselected recipients only
Shams Foundation is a private foundation in Woodland Hills, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $108,525 in 6 grants; the typical grant was $10,000 and the largest $75,025. 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$108,525
- Number of grants6
- Typical grant$10,000
- Largest grant$75,025
- Assets$812,974
- New grantees67%
Giving in 2025 was up from $56,440 the year before.
67% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, a sign it is open to new organizations.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $83,500 | 7 | $572,155 |
| 2024 | $56,440 | 4 | $708,535 |
| 2025 | $108,525 | 6 | $812,974 |
How to apply
Shams 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.
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 4 states, the most to District of Columbia.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | 1 | $75,025 |
| California | 2 | $20,000 |
| New York | 2 | $11,500 |
| Connecticut | 1 | $2,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| niac | Charitable donation | $75,025 |
| Westminster Free Clinic | Charitable donation | $10,000 |
| Quincy Institute for Responsible St | Charitable donation | $10,000 |
| Alameda County Community Food Bank | Charitable donation | $10,000 |
| save the children | charitable donation | $2,000 |
| The Intercept | Charitable donation | $1,500 |
Officers and trustees
- Ahmad Shams
- Victoria Shams
Questions people ask
Does Shams Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Shams Foundation give?
$108,525 in tax year 2025, across 6 grants, with a typical grant of $10,000.
Who runs Shams Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Ahmad Shams (President) and Victoria Shams (Cfo).