The Pioneer Fund
Preselected recipients only
The Pioneer Fund is a private foundation in Denver, Colorado. In tax year 2025 it gave $31,700 in 4 grants; the typical grant was $6,250 and the largest $18,200. 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$31,700
- Number of grants4
- Typical grant$6,250
- Largest grant$18,200
- Assets$47,641
- New grantees25%
Giving in 2025 was down from $76,250 the year before.
25% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, a mix of repeat and new grantees.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $15,750 | 6 | $157,257 |
| 2024 | $76,250 | 6 | $79,752 |
| 2025 | $31,700 | 4 | $47,641 |
How to apply
The Pioneer Fund 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 Pioneer Fund funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 3 states, the most to Colorado.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado | 2 | $19,200 |
| Tennessee | 1 | $10,000 |
| California | 1 | $2,500 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Belize Education Project | General operating support | $18,200 |
| Gentry Educational Svcs | Generaloperatingsupport | $10,000 |
| UCLA Foundation | Generaloperatingsupport | $2,500 |
| Basics Team Foundation | Generaloperatingsupport | $1,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Robert Anderson
- Scott Hamilton
- Lark Birdsong
Questions people ask
Does The Pioneer Fund accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Pioneer Fund give?
$31,700 in tax year 2025, across 4 grants, with a typical grant of $6,250.
Who runs The Pioneer Fund?
Its 2025 filing lists Robert Anderson (Pres-Treas), Scott Hamilton (Vice-President) and Lark Birdsong (Secretary).
What does The Pioneer Fund fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education.