Trace Foundation
Preselected recipients only
Trace Foundation is a private foundation in Annapolis, Maryland. In tax year 2025 it gave $276,625 in 3 grants; the typical grant was $103,625 and the largest $123,000. 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$276,625
- Number of grants3
- Typical grant$103,625
- Largest grant$123,000
- Assets$3.0 million
- New grantees100%
Giving in 2025 was up from $100,000 the year before.
100% 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 | $15,000 | 1 | $2.7 million |
| 2024 | $100,000 | 3 | $2.9 million |
| 2025 | $276,625 | 3 | $3.0 million |
How to apply
Trace 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 Trace Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its US grants went to recipients in 2 states, the most to Mississippi. It also paid $103,625 in 1 grant to recipients outside the US.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi | 1 | $123,000 |
| District of Columbia | 1 | $50,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Deep South Today | General operating grant | $123,000 |
| Salt Spring Institute for Sustainability Education and Action | Trace foundation contribution to the joint national observer's corruption and climate reporting project | $103,625 |
| Journalism Development Network | Trace foundation grant for occrp work in 2025 | $50,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Alexandra Addison
- Jessie Reynolds O'Neil
- Pia Mikkola-Vining
Questions people ask
Does Trace Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Trace Foundation give?
$276,625 in tax year 2025, across 3 grants, with a typical grant of $103,625.
Who runs Trace Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Alexandra Addison (President), Jessie Reynolds O'Neil (Treasurer) and Pia Mikkola-Vining (Director).
What does Trace Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education, environment and conservation and international.