The Gary C Wendt Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Gary C Wendt Foundation is a private foundation in Cos Cob, Connecticut. In tax year 2025 it gave $1.0 million in 6 grants; the typical grant was $72,500 and the largest $662,000. 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$1.0 million
- Number of grants6
- Typical grant$72,500
- Largest grant$662,000
- Assets$31.5 million
- New grantees67%
Giving in 2025 was up from $877,000 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 | $320,000 | 1 | $26.2 million |
| 2024 | $877,000 | 3 | $28.5 million |
| 2025 | $1.0 million | 6 | $31.5 million |
How to apply
The Gary C Wendt 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 Gary C Wendt Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 5 states, the most to Florida.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Florida | 2 | $687,000 |
| Wisconsin | 1 | $200,000 |
| Ohio | 1 | $100,000 |
| New York | 1 | $45,000 |
| Connecticut | 1 | $10,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Community Foundation of Broward | To transform the community through focused leadership that fosters collaboration, builds endowment, advances equity, and connects people who care to causes that matter. | $662,000 |
| University of Wisconsin Foundation | To promote the welfare of and advance the objectives of the university of wisconsin madison by encouraging the interest, engagement, and financial support of alumni, donors, and friends in the life of the university and with each other. | $200,000 |
| Cleveland Clinic Foundation | To integrate clinical and hospital care with research and education. | $100,000 |
| Wendt Family Philanthropic Fund | To support initiatives that educate, empower, and lift individuals to reach their full potential, as well as to support programs that strengthen communities. | $45,000 |
| Slow Burn Theatre Company Inc | To showcase the best of contemporary musical theatre to south florida. | $25,000 |
| Stamford Center for the Arts Inc | To award scholarships for many under-resourced youth and encourage a life-long appreciation of the performing arts. | $10,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Gary C Wendt
- Valerie Ahneman
Questions people ask
Does The Gary C Wendt Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Gary C Wendt Foundation give?
$1.0 million in tax year 2025, across 6 grants, with a typical grant of $72,500.
Who runs The Gary C Wendt Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Gary C Wendt (Trustee) and Valerie Ahneman (Trustee).
What does The Gary C Wendt Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education and arts and culture.