Tom & Nancy Elsaesser Foundation
Preselected recipients only
Tom & Nancy Elsaesser Foundation is a private foundation in Solvang, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $88,000 in 12 grants; the typical grant was $3,500 and the largest $25,000. 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$88,000
- Number of grants12
- Typical grant$3,500
- Largest grant$25,000
- Assets$599,132
- New grantees10%
Giving in 2025 was down from $104,000 the year before.
10% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, so most of its money goes to organizations it already funds.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $94,000 | 9 | $600,197 |
| 2024 | $104,000 | 11 | $596,711 |
| 2025 | $88,000 | 12 | $599,132 |
How to apply
Tom & Nancy Elsaesser 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 Tom & Nancy Elsaesser Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 2 states, the most to California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 11 | $87,000 |
| Illinois | 1 | $1,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | Unrestricted | $25,000 |
| Direct Relief | General | $25,000 |
| Cottage Hospital of Sta Ynez Valley | Unrestricted | $10,000 |
| Pasadena Humane Society | Unrestricted | $10,000 |
| Stuart C Gildred Family YMCA | Unrestricted | $5,000 |
| Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara | Unrestricted | $5,000 |
| Surfrider Foundation | Ventura county chapter | $2,000 |
| Cares 4PAWS | General | $2,000 |
| American Women for International Un | Unrestricted | $1,000 |
| Individual | General | $1,000 |
| California Nature Art Museum | Unrestricted | $1,000 |
| Elverhoj Museum | Unrestricted | $1,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Thomas P Elsaesser
- Nancy S Elsaesser
Questions people ask
Does Tom & Nancy Elsaesser Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Tom & Nancy Elsaesser Foundation give?
$88,000 in tax year 2025, across 12 grants, with a typical grant of $3,500.
Who runs Tom & Nancy Elsaesser Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Thomas P Elsaesser (President/Dir) and Nancy S Elsaesser (Sec/Trea/Direct).
What does Tom & Nancy Elsaesser Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly health and arts and culture.