The Coto Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Coto Foundation is a private foundation in Los Angeles, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $699,000 in 7 grants; the typical grant was $35,000 and the largest $500,000. 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$699,000
- Number of grants7
- Typical grant$35,000
- Largest grant$500,000
- Assets$0
- New grantees17%
Giving in 2025 was up from $304,000 the year before.
17% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, a mix of repeat and new grantees.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $472,240 | 8 | $1.2 million |
| 2024 | $304,000 | 10 | $1.3 million |
| 2025 | $699,000 | 7 | $0 |
How to apply
The Coto 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.
What The Coto Foundation funds
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 7 | $699,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Lifesavers Inc | Wild horse rescue & sanctuary general operating support | $500,000 |
| Northridge Hospital Foundation | General operating support | $80,000 |
| Discovery Science Center of Los Angeles | General operating support | $45,000 |
| Shelter Hope Enterprises Inc | General operating support | $35,000 |
| Fulfillment Fund | General operating support | $17,000 |
| Discovery Science Center of Orange County | General operating support | $14,000 |
| Shelter Hope Enterprises Inc | General operating support | $8,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Melanie Coto
- Michael Stephenson
Questions people ask
Does The Coto Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Coto Foundation give?
$699,000 in tax year 2025, across 7 grants, with a typical grant of $35,000.
Who runs The Coto Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Melanie Coto (Ceo and Director) and Michael Stephenson (Cfo and Secretary).
What does The Coto Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly science and research and housing and homelessness.