McDowell Foundation
Preselected recipients only
McDowell Foundation is a private foundation in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In tax year 2025 it gave $505,000 in 2 grants; the typical grant was $252,500 and the largest $500,000. 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$505,000
- Number of grants2
- Typical grant$252,500
- Largest grant$500,000
- Assets$1.5 million
- New grantees50%
Giving in 2025 was up from $75,000 the year before.
50% 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 | $118,500 | 27 | $1.5 million |
| 2024 | $75,000 | 35 | $1.7 million |
| 2025 | $505,000 | 2 | $1.5 million |
How to apply
McDowell 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 McDowell Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 2 states, the most to District of Columbia.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | 1 | $500,000 |
| Wyoming | 1 | $5,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| American Rivers Anglers Fund | To support the charitable activities of the organization | $500,000 |
| Center for the Arts | To support the charitable activities of the organization | $5,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Susan McDowell
- Whitney McDowell
- Jeffrey McDowell
Questions people ask
Does McDowell Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does McDowell Foundation give?
$505,000 in tax year 2025, across 2 grants, with a typical grant of $252,500.
Who runs McDowell Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Susan McDowell (Pres/Dir), Whitney McDowell (Vice Pres/Dir) and Jeffrey McDowell (Treas/Dir).
What does McDowell Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly environment and conservation and arts and culture.