The Nelson Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Nelson Foundation is a private foundation in Des Moines, Iowa. In tax year 2025 it gave $300,000 in 5 grants; the typical grant was $60,000 and the largest $100,000. 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$300,000
- Number of grants5
- Typical grant$60,000
- Largest grant$100,000
- Assets$6.1 million
- New grantees60%
Giving in 2025 was up from $260,000 the year before.
60% 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 | $180,000 | 7 | $4.4 million |
| 2024 | $260,000 | 11 | $5.3 million |
| 2025 | $300,000 | 5 | $6.1 million |
How to apply
The Nelson 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 Nelson Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 2 states, the most to Iowa.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 4 | $270,000 |
| California | 1 | $30,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Dowling Catholic High School | Science equipment purchase support | $100,000 |
| By Degrees Foundation | Project support | $75,000 |
| Living History Farms Foundation | Capital campaign support | $60,000 |
| Easter Seals of Iowa | General support | $35,000 |
| University of California San Francisco Foundation | Research support | $30,000 |
Officers and trustees
- R W Nelson
- Mary Nelson
- Dan Ryan
- Michael Kirlin
- Maria Massey
Questions people ask
Does The Nelson Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Nelson Foundation give?
$300,000 in tax year 2025, across 5 grants, with a typical grant of $60,000.
Who runs The Nelson Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists R W Nelson (Foundation Manager), Mary Nelson (Foundation Manager), Dan Ryan (President) and Michael Kirlin (Treasurer) among 5 officers and trustees.
What does The Nelson Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education and science and research.