The 72 Fund
Preselected recipients only
The 72 Fund is a private foundation in Boston, Massachusetts. In tax year 2024 it gave $2.9 million in 6 grants; the typical grant was $250,000 and the largest $1.5 million. 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$2.9 million
- Number of grants6
- Typical grant$250,000
- Largest grant$1.5 million
- Assets$54.1 million
- New grantees25%
Giving in 2024 was up from $2.8 million the year before.
25% of its 2024 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 | $2.8 million | 8 | $52.0 million |
| 2024 | $2.9 million | 6 | $54.1 million |
How to apply
The 72 Fund 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 72 Fund funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 2 states, the most to Massachusetts.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 4 | $2.4 million |
| District of Columbia | 2 | $500,000 |
Grants paid in 2024
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Kingsley Montessori School | Purchase of new school building | $1.5 million |
| President and Fellows of Harvard College | Donovan-chien family professorship | $800,000 |
| UNICEF USA | Unicef heart strings grant | $250,000 |
| UNICEF USA | General charitable purposes | $250,000 |
| Esperanza Academy | Ready to rise comprehensive campaign - esperanza grant | $100,000 |
| Kingsley Montessori School | Strategic consulting for campaign | $24,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Kenneth R Chien
- Megan K Donovan-Chien
- Geoffrey M Mason
- Michelle Knight
Questions people ask
Does The 72 Fund accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The 72 Fund give?
$2.9 million in tax year 2024, across 6 grants, with a typical grant of $250,000.
Who runs The 72 Fund?
Its 2024 filing lists Kenneth R Chien (Trustee), Megan K Donovan-Chien (President and Trustee), Geoffrey M Mason (Trustee) and Michelle Knight (Trustee).
What does The 72 Fund fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education and international.