The Merwin Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Merwin Foundation is a private foundation in Bloomington, Illinois. In tax year 2025 it gave $420,000 in 7 grants; the typical grant was $25,000 and the largest $150,000. 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$420,000
- Number of grants7
- Typical grant$25,000
- Largest grant$150,000
- Assets$6.0 million
- New grantees43%
Giving in 2025 was up from $345,000 the year before.
43% 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 | $395,000 | 6 | $5.0 million |
| 2024 | $345,000 | 6 | $5.4 million |
| 2025 | $420,000 | 7 | $6.0 million |
How to apply
The Merwin 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 Merwin Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 3 states, the most to Texas.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | 4 | $275,000 |
| New Jersey | 1 | $100,000 |
| Illinois | 2 | $45,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| McCullough Fund | To aid the charity's mission | $150,000 |
| Compass School of Texas | T0 aid the charity's mission | $100,000 |
| Children's Health Defense | To aid the charity's mission | $100,000 |
| McLean County Museum of History | To aid the museum's mission | $25,000 |
| Autism McLean | To aid the charity's mission | $20,000 |
| The Hockaday School | To aid the charity's mission | $20,000 |
| Point of View | To aid the charity's mission | $5,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Sharon Merwin
Questions people ask
Does The Merwin Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Merwin Foundation give?
$420,000 in tax year 2025, across 7 grants, with a typical grant of $25,000.
Who runs The Merwin Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Sharon Merwin (Pres/Sec/Treasurer).
What does The Merwin Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly faith communities and education.