Merchantz Family Foundation
Preselected recipients only
Merchantz Family Foundation is a private foundation in Hinsdale, Illinois. In tax year 2025 it gave $1.4 million in 8 grants; the typical grant was $100,000 and the largest $400,000. 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$1.4 million
- Number of grants8
- Typical grant$100,000
- Largest grant$400,000
- Assets$27.1 million
- New grantees13%
Giving in 2025 was up from $850,000 the year before.
13% 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 | $740,000 | 9 | $11.1 million |
| 2024 | $850,000 | 8 | $13.2 million |
| 2025 | $1.4 million | 8 | $27.1 million |
How to apply
Merchantz Family 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 Merchantz Family Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 6 states, the most to Illinois.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 3 | $550,000 |
| California | 1 | $400,000 |
| Oklahoma | 1 | $250,000 |
| District of Columbia | 1 | $100,000 |
| Georgia | 1 | $50,000 |
| North Carolina | 1 | $50,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Ministries | To further the exempt purpose of the organization | $400,000 |
| Christian Life Ministries | To further the exempt purpose of the organization | $400,000 |
| Museum of the Bible | To further the exempt purpose of the organization | $250,000 |
| Illinois Family Institute | To further the exempt purpose of the organization | $100,000 |
| Judicial Watch | To further the exempt purpose of the organization | $100,000 |
| Aclj - Christian Advocates Serving Evangelism | To further the exempt purpose of the organization | $50,000 |
| City of Refuge | To further the exempt purpose of the organization | $50,000 |
| Samaritan's Purse | To further the exempt purpose of the organization | $50,000 |
Officers and trustees
- William Merchantz
- Cathy Merchantz
Questions people ask
Does Merchantz Family Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Merchantz Family Foundation give?
$1.4 million in tax year 2025, across 8 grants, with a typical grant of $100,000.
Who runs Merchantz Family Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists William Merchantz (President) and Cathy Merchantz (Secretary).
What does Merchantz Family Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly faith communities.