The Margulis Foundation for Freedom and Opportunity
Preselected recipients only
The Margulis Foundation for Freedom and Opportunity is a private foundation in Chicago, Illinois. In tax year 2025 it gave $669,600 in 9 grants; the typical grant was $50,000 and the largest $200,000. 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$669,600
- Number of grants9
- Typical grant$50,000
- Largest grant$200,000
- Assets$2.9 million
- New grantees22%
Giving in 2025 was up from $555,000 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 | $455,000 | 10 | $2.5 million |
| 2024 | $555,000 | 9 | $3.4 million |
| 2025 | $669,600 | 9 | $2.9 million |
How to apply
The Margulis Foundation for Freedom and Opportunity 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 Margulis Foundation for Freedom and Opportunity funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 5 states, the most to Illinois.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 5 | $270,000 |
| Virginia | 1 | $200,000 |
| District of Columbia | 1 | $124,600 |
| New Jersey | 1 | $50,000 |
| Missouri | 1 | $25,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Stand Together Trust | General operating | $200,000 |
| Illinois Policy Institute | General operating | $150,000 |
| Cato Institute | General operating | $124,600 |
| Cara Program | General operating | $50,000 |
| The Trustees of Princeton University | General operating | $50,000 |
| Chicagos Sunshine Enterprises Inc | General operating | $40,000 |
| Skills for Chicago | General operating | $25,000 |
| Washington University | General operating | $25,000 |
| Liberty Justice Center | General operating | $5,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Arthur S Margulis Jr
- Elaine R Margulis
Questions people ask
Does The Margulis Foundation for Freedom and Opportunity accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Margulis Foundation for Freedom and Opportunity give?
$669,600 in tax year 2025, across 9 grants, with a typical grant of $50,000.
Who runs The Margulis Foundation for Freedom and Opportunity?
Its 2025 filing lists Arthur S Margulis Jr (Trustee, President) and Elaine R Margulis (Secretary).
What does The Margulis Foundation for Freedom and Opportunity fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education.