The Semel Charitable Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Semel Charitable Foundation is a private foundation in Sherman Oaks, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $210,000 in 4 grants; the typical grant was $50,000 and the largest $100,000. 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$210,000
- Number of grants4
- Typical grant$50,000
- Largest grant$100,000
- Assets$3.2 million
- New grantees75%
Giving in 2025 was down from $275,000 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 | $290,000 | 2 | $3.4 million |
| 2024 | $275,000 | 2 | $3.3 million |
| 2025 | $210,000 | 4 | $3.2 million |
How to apply
The Semel Charitable 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.
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 2 states, the most to California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 3 | $135,000 |
| New York | 1 | $75,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| MPTF | General support | $100,000 |
| New York Live Arts Inc | General support | $75,000 |
| Lafd Foundation | General support | $25,000 |
| Hilarity for Charity | General support | $10,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Jane Semel
- Lily Bovingdon Semel
- Ilya Top
Questions people ask
Does The Semel Charitable Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Semel Charitable Foundation give?
$210,000 in tax year 2025, across 4 grants, with a typical grant of $50,000.
Who runs The Semel Charitable Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Jane Semel (The chairperson of the board), Lily Bovingdon Semel (President) and Ilya Top (CFO/Secretary).