The Jans Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Jans Foundation is a private foundation in La Jolla, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $1.0 million in 5 grants; the typical grant was $100,000 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$1.0 million
- Number of grants5
- Typical grant$100,000
- Largest grant$500,000
- Assets$26.0 million
- New grantees40%
Giving in 2025 was down from $1.2 million the year before.
40% 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 | $999,857 | 11 | $23.5 million |
| 2024 | $1.2 million | 5 | $24.3 million |
| 2025 | $1.0 million | 5 | $26.0 million |
How to apply
The Jans 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 Jans Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 5 states, the most to Nebraska.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | 1 | $500,000 |
| Idaho | 1 | $380,000 |
| South Dakota | 1 | $100,000 |
| New York | 1 | $50,000 |
| Oregon | 1 | $10,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| University of Nebraska Foundation | Funds for discretionary use | $500,000 |
| Higher Ground Sun Valley | Funds for discretionary use | $380,000 |
| St Joseph's Indian School | Funds for discretionary use | $100,000 |
| Sloan Kettering | Funds for discretionary use | $50,000 |
| Shepherd's House Ministries | Funds for discretionary use | $10,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Jan E Nielsen
Questions people ask
Does The Jans Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Jans Foundation give?
$1.0 million in tax year 2025, across 5 grants, with a typical grant of $100,000.
Who runs The Jans Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Jan E Nielsen (Trustee).
What does The Jans Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education.