The Shens Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Shens Foundation is a private foundation in Saratoga, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $83,567 in 15 grants; the typical grant was $3,000 and the largest $21,000. 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$83,567
- Number of grants15
- Typical grant$3,000
- Largest grant$21,000
- Assets$2.6 million
- New grantees67%
Giving in 2025 was up from $30,217 the year before.
67% 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 | $38,625 | 3 | $1.1 million |
| 2024 | $30,217 | 5 | $1.8 million |
| 2025 | $83,567 | 15 | $2.6 million |
How to apply
The Shens 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 Shens Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 5 states, the most to California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 10 | $66,060 |
| New York | 2 | $13,137 |
| North Carolina | 1 | $3,000 |
| Washington | 1 | $1,000 |
| Texas | 1 | $370 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Jik | Contribution to charitable organization. | $21,000 |
| Montalvo Arts Center | Contribution to charitable organization. | $10,160 |
| US Sichuan Chungoing General Association Inc | Contribution to charitable organization. | $10,000 |
| Elk Grove Chinese Association | Contribution to charitable organization. | $10,000 |
| San Jose Korean Presbyterian Church | Contribution to charitable organization. | $8,400 |
| West Valley-Mission Foundation | Contribution to charitable organization. | $4,000 |
| UNICEF USA | Contribution to charitable organization. | $3,137 |
| Asian Liver Center Fund | Contribution to charitable organization. | $3,000 |
| International Society for Children With Cancer | Contribution to charitable organization. | $3,000 |
| Asian American for Better Community | Contribution to charitable organization. | $3,000 |
| The Joel Fund | Contribution to charitable organization. | $3,000 |
| Saratoga High School Foundation | Contribution to charitable organization. | $3,000 |
| Gates Foundation | Contribution to charitable organization. | $1,000 |
| CHP11-99 Foundation | Contribution to charitable organization. | $500 |
| Elan Foundation | Contribution to charitable organization. | $370 |
Officers and trustees
- James Zhi-Fang Shen
- Henry Arthur Shen
- Anna Shen
Questions people ask
Does The Shens Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Shens Foundation give?
$83,567 in tax year 2025, across 15 grants, with a typical grant of $3,000.
Who runs The Shens Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists James Zhi-Fang Shen (Ceo), Henry Arthur Shen (Secretary) and Anna Shen (Cfo).
What does The Shens Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly faith communities and international.