The Paul & Elisabeth Merage Family Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Paul & Elisabeth Merage Family Foundation is a private foundation in Newport Beach, California. In tax year 2024 it gave $1.9 million in 5 grants; the typical grant was $25,000 and the largest $1.3 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$1.9 million
- Number of grants5
- Typical grant$25,000
- Largest grant$1.3 million
- Assets$40.8 million
- New grantees60%
Giving in 2024 was down from $2.0 million the year before.
60% 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $2.0 million | 9 | $44.5 million |
| 2024 | $1.9 million | 5 | $40.8 million |
How to apply
The Paul & Elisabeth Merage Family 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 Paul & Elisabeth Merage Family Foundation funds
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 5 | $1.9 million |
Grants paid in 2024
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Orange County Community Foundation | General operating | $1.3 million |
| Simbelle Productions | General operating | $500,000 |
| El Sol Academy Foundation | General operating | $25,000 |
| University Synagogue | General operating | $10,000 |
| Segerstrom Center for the Arts | General operating | $4,688 |
Officers and trustees
- Michelle Merage
- Elisabeth Merage
- Paul Merage
Questions people ask
Does The Paul & Elisabeth Merage Family Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Paul & Elisabeth Merage Family Foundation give?
$1.9 million in tax year 2024, across 5 grants, with a typical grant of $25,000.
Who runs The Paul & Elisabeth Merage Family Foundation?
Its 2024 filing lists Michelle Merage (Pres/Director), Elisabeth Merage (Director) and Paul Merage (Chairman of the Board).
What does The Paul & Elisabeth Merage Family Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education.