The Donald Bren Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Donald Bren Foundation is a private foundation in Newport Beach, California. In tax year 2024 it gave $5.4 million in 2 grants; the typical grant was $3.5 million and the largest $6.9 million. It only gives to organizations it selects itself and does not accept unsolicited applications.
From its IRS Form 990-PF for tax year 2024.
- Grants paid, 2024$5.4 million
- Number of grants2
- Typical grant$3.5 million
- Largest grant$6.9 million
- Assets$387 million
- New grantees50%
Giving in 2024 was down from $9.2 million the year before.
50% of its 2024 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $2.0 million | 2 | $261 million |
| 2023 | $9.2 million | 3 | $333 million |
| 2024 | $5.4 million | 2 | $387 million |
How to apply
The Donald Bren 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 Donald Bren Foundation funds
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 2 | $7.0 million |
Grants paid in 2024
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California Institute of Technology | TO SUPPORT THE MISSION OF THE RECIPIENT ORGANIZATION. . Description: 33,984 shares Apple Inc . Book value: $622,635.43 . Method used to determine the book value: specific identification . Method used to determine the FMV: JP Morgan bank statements . Date of the contribution: 6/25/2025 | $6.9 million |
| Milken Institute | To support the mission of the recipient organization | $150,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Donald Bren
- Gino Bianchini
- David Rodibaugh
- Brigitte Bren
- Hunter Bren
Questions people ask
Does The Donald Bren Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Donald Bren Foundation give?
$5.4 million in tax year 2024, across 2 grants, with a typical grant of $3.5 million.
Who runs The Donald Bren Foundation?
Its 2024 filing lists Donald Bren (President/Director), Gino Bianchini (Secretary), David Rodibaugh (Chief Financial Officer) and Brigitte Bren (Director) among 5 officers and trustees.
What does The Donald Bren Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly faith communities and science and research.