Acorn Foundation
Preselected recipients only
Acorn Foundation is a private foundation in Chanhassen, Minnesota. In tax year 2024 it gave $235,000 in 10 grants; the typical grant was $7,500 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 2024.
- Grants paid, 2024$235,000
- Number of grants10
- Typical grant$7,500
- Largest grant$100,000
- Assets$4.4 million
- New grantees20%
Giving in 2024 was up from $230,000 the year before.
20% 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 | $230,000 | 8 | $4.5 million |
| 2024 | $235,000 | 10 | $4.4 million |
How to apply
Acorn 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.
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 4 states, the most to Minnesota.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 7 | $165,000 |
| New Mexico | 1 | $45,000 |
| Missouri | 1 | $15,000 |
| New York | 1 | $10,000 |
Grants paid in 2024
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| NC Little Hospice Inc | General operating support | $100,000 |
| Washburn Center for Children | General operating support | $50,000 |
| Horses for Heroes - New Mexico Inc | General operating support | $45,000 |
| Agwm | General operating support | $15,000 |
| The Bowery Mission | General operating support | $10,000 |
| Angel Foundation | General operating support | $5,000 |
| Jack's Basket | General operating support | $3,000 |
| Rise Incorporated | General operating support | $3,000 |
| Caring Bridge | General operating support | $2,000 |
| Nature Conservancy MN | General operating support | $2,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Shirley Sheldon
- Dan Sheldon
- Matthew Hanson
Questions people ask
Does Acorn Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Acorn Foundation give?
$235,000 in tax year 2024, across 10 grants, with a typical grant of $7,500.
Who runs Acorn Foundation?
Its 2024 filing lists Shirley Sheldon (President/Secretary), Dan Sheldon (Vice President) and Matthew Hanson (Treasurer).