Shapell Manuscript Foundation
Preselected recipients only
Shapell Manuscript Foundation is a private foundation in Santa Monica, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $690,000 in 2 grants; the typical grant was $345,000 and the largest $680,000. 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$690,000
- Number of grants2
- Typical grant$345,000
- Largest grant$680,000
- Assets$1.6 million
- New grantees50%
Giving in 2025 was up from $662,000 the year before.
50% 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 | $590,000 | 1 | $1.6 million |
| 2024 | $662,000 | 2 | $1.5 million |
| 2025 | $690,000 | 2 | $1.6 million |
How to apply
Shapell Manuscript 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 Shapell Manuscript Foundation funds
Where it gives
All of its US grants went to recipients in New York. It also paid $680,000 in 1 grant to recipients outside the US.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| New York | 1 | $10,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| The B Shapell's Family Manuscript Amuta Ra | Research of historical documents | $680,000 |
| Jewish Funders Network | General | $10,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Benjamin Shapell
- Joseph M Maddalena
- Reynolds T Cafferata
- Jennifer Shapell Smith
Questions people ask
Does Shapell Manuscript Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Shapell Manuscript Foundation give?
$690,000 in tax year 2025, across 2 grants, with a typical grant of $345,000.
Who runs Shapell Manuscript Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Benjamin Shapell (President), Joseph M Maddalena (Cfo), Reynolds T Cafferata (Secretary) and Jennifer Shapell Smith (Assistant Secretary).
What does Shapell Manuscript Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly international, science and research and faith communities.