The Bright Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Bright Foundation is a private foundation in Des Moines, Iowa. In tax year 2024 it gave $2.2 million in 3 grants; the typical grant was $803,406 and the largest $904,396. It only gives to organizations it selects itself and does not accept unsolicited applications.
From its IRS Form 990-PF for tax year 2024.
- Grants paid, 2024$2.2 million
- Number of grants3
- Typical grant$803,406
- Largest grant$904,396
- Assets$56.5 million
- New grantees0%
Giving in 2024 was down from $2.4 million the year before.
0% of its 2024 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 | $2.4 million | 4 | $52.3 million |
| 2024 | $2.2 million | 3 | $56.5 million |
How to apply
The Bright 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.
Foundation website IRS filings on ProPublica
What The Bright Foundation funds
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in Iowa.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 3 | $2.2 million |
Grants paid in 2024
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa State University Foundation | Scholarships | $904,396 |
| University Of Iowa Center for Advancement | Scholarships | $803,406 |
| University Of Northern Iowa Foundation | Scholarships | $494,686 |
Officers and trustees
- Meredith Dohmen
- Thomas E Press
- Jerry Deegan
- Kelly L Nieman
- Stacy Wanderscheid
- Dale J Andringa
- Jeffrey G Fleming
- Carrie A Kompelien
- Craig A Shadur
Questions people ask
Does The Bright Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Bright Foundation give?
$2.2 million in tax year 2024, across 3 grants, with a typical grant of $803,406.
Who runs The Bright Foundation?
Its 2024 filing lists Meredith Dohmen (President), Thomas E Press (Chairman & Managing Director), Jerry Deegan (Vice Chair & Director) and Kelly L Nieman (Director) among 9 officers and trustees.
What does The Bright Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education.