The Cismas Foundation
Accepts applications
The Cismas Foundation is a private foundation in Saratoga, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $104,003 in 11 grants; the typical grant was $4,250 and the largest $55,487. It accepts applications; its filing gives the instructions below.
From its IRS Form 990-PF for tax year 2025.
- Grants paid, 2025$104,003
- Number of grants11
- Typical grant$4,250
- Largest grant$55,487
- Assets$5.5 million
- New grantees75%
Giving in 2025 was up from $75,371 the year before.
75% 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 | $60,354 | 4 | $3.0 million |
| 2024 | $75,371 | 6 | $4.5 million |
| 2025 | $104,003 | 11 | $5.5 million |
How to apply
| Contact | Sorin Cismas 14696 Via de Marcos, Saratoga, CA 95070 |
|---|---|
| Phone or email | (408) 867-0203, sorin@cismas.org |
| What to submit | Applications are in the form of a written letter and should be submitted by email text w or w o PDF or JPEG attachments with a concise description of the cause and reason a contribution is requested. |
| Restrictions | Awards range from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. There are no geographical limitations although USA and Romania are preferred. Awards are made consistent with The Cismas Foundation Mission for charitable cultural scientific and educational purposes. |
Foundation website IRS filings on ProPublica
What The Cismas Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its US grants went to recipients in 3 states, the most to California. It also paid $61,944 in 3 grants to recipients outside the US.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 6 | $36,539 |
| New Jersey | 1 | $5,020 |
| Texas | 1 | $500 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Via Transilvanica | Extension of Via Transilvanica through Brasov County connecting Saxon villages like Viscri Bran Rsnov and Zarnesti offering diverse landscapes historical sites and unique carved stone markers promoting sustainable tourism and local economies through authentic experiences | $55,487 |
| Individual | Cover the tuition for gifted students that do not have the financial means to pay it. | $16,139 |
| Santa Clara University | Board of Fellows Fundraising | $12,000 |
| Individual | Cover the tuition for gifted students that do not have the financial means to pay it. | $5,020 |
| Asociatia COOLT | Organization of cultural and educational events | $4,977 |
| Computer History Museum | Support for Computer History Museum Mission | $4,250 |
| Individual | Humanitarian help | $3,000 |
| Asociatia Connections | Romanian Culture and History | $1,480 |
| Holy Cross Monastery | Religious and Charitable Support | $1,000 |
| Anedot | support individuals facing financial hardship | $500 |
| Holy Resurrection Romanian Orthodox | Religious and Charitable Support | $150 |
Officers and trustees
- Octavia Cismas
- Sorin Cismas
- Cristina Florea
Questions people ask
Does The Cismas Foundation accept grant applications?
Yes. Its latest IRS filing says it accepts applications.
How much does The Cismas Foundation give?
$104,003 in tax year 2025, across 11 grants, with a typical grant of $4,250.
Who runs The Cismas Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Octavia Cismas (President), Sorin Cismas (Treasurer) and Cristina Florea (Secretary).
What does The Cismas Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly international, education and arts and culture.