Conatus Foundation
Preselected recipients only
Conatus Foundation is a private foundation in Belmont, Massachusetts. In tax year 2025 it gave $17,500 in 3 grants; the typical grant was $5,000 and the largest $10,000. 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$17,500
- Number of grants3
- Typical grant$5,000
- Largest grant$10,000
- Assets$6.4 million
- New grantees33%
Giving in 2025 was up from $8,500 the year before.
33% 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 | $3,500 | 2 | $4.8 million |
| 2024 | $8,500 | 3 | $5.6 million |
| 2025 | $17,500 | 3 | $6.4 million |
How to apply
Conatus 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 Conatus Foundation funds
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in Massachusetts.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 3 | $17,500 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| ACLU Foundation of Massachusetts | General support | $10,000 |
| Cambridge Community Chorus | To support the nonprofit in providing musical work for the greater boston area. | $5,000 |
| Berkshire Community Diaper Project | To support the nonprofit in providing essential supplies to parents who struggle to afford them. | $2,500 |
Officers and trustees
- Katherine Shea
- John Henry Ignatiev
- Julia Shea
Questions people ask
Does Conatus Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Conatus Foundation give?
$17,500 in tax year 2025, across 3 grants, with a typical grant of $5,000.
Who runs Conatus Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Katherine Shea (President), John Henry Ignatiev (Director) and Julia Shea (Director).
What does Conatus Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly arts and culture.