The Eshelman Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Eshelman Foundation is a private foundation in Wilmington, Delaware. In tax year 2025 it gave $106,500 in 10 grants; the typical grant was $8,750 and the largest $30,000. 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$106,500
- Number of grants10
- Typical grant$8,750
- Largest grant$30,000
- Assets$45,730
- New grantees22%
Giving in 2025 was down from $450,900 the year before.
22% 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 | $162,000 | 12 | $172,520 |
| 2024 | $450,900 | 29 | $50,822 |
| 2025 | $106,500 | 10 | $45,730 |
How to apply
The Eshelman 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 Eshelman Foundation funds
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in North Carolina.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 10 | $106,500 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| The Carousel Center Inc | Victim support and advocacy services | $30,000 |
| Phoenix Employment Services of Wilmington Inc | Restoring opportunity to youth and future leaders program | $15,000 |
| Communities in Schools of Cape Fear Inc | Baby Steps young parent support program | $12,500 |
| Brooklyn Arts Music Academy | Music is Life Program | $10,000 |
| University of North Carolina at Wilmington | Marine Quest Internship Program | $10,000 |
| Coastal Horizons Center Inc | For nutritious meals for the youth in the shelter | $7,500 |
| Communities in Schools of Brunswick County | Action for Success program | $7,500 |
| Individual | $6,000 | |
| National Society to Prevent Blindness North Caroli | Preschool Vision Screening Program | $5,000 |
| The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra Inc | Making Noise in the Symphony Program | $3,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Kimberly Eshelman Batten
- Laura Bonifacio
- Steve Diab
- Fred Eshelman
- Walker Taylor IV
Questions people ask
Does The Eshelman Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Eshelman Foundation give?
$106,500 in tax year 2025, across 10 grants, with a typical grant of $8,750.
Who runs The Eshelman Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Kimberly Eshelman Batten (Dir, Pres), Laura Bonifacio (Board Member), Steve Diab (Sec) and Fred Eshelman (Chairman) among 5 officers and trustees.
What does The Eshelman Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education, youth programs and arts and culture.