The Pelson Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Pelson Foundation is a private foundation in Albany, New York. In tax year 2025 it gave $68,322 in 14 grants; the typical grant was $5,811 and the largest $10,750. 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$68,322
- Number of grants14
- Typical grant$5,811
- Largest grant$10,750
- Assets$56,238
- New grantees29%
Giving in 2025 was up from $54,242 the year before.
29% 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 | $39,390 | 6 | $121,339 |
| 2024 | $54,242 | 11 | $110,754 |
| 2025 | $68,322 | 14 | $56,238 |
How to apply
The Pelson 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 The Pelson Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 3 states, the most to New York.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| New York | 5 | $33,550 |
| New Jersey | 8 | $24,772 |
| District of Columbia | 1 | $10,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| the metropolitan musuem | organization needs | $10,750 |
| Urban Arts | organization needs | $10,000 |
| College of New Jersey | organization needs | $10,000 |
| Foundation of Defence | Organizational needs | $10,000 |
| Sound Start Foundation | organization needs | $6,500 |
| congregation emanu-el of new york | organization needs | $6,150 |
| Chamber Music Society | organization needs | $6,000 |
| temple b'nai abraham | organization needs | $5,622 |
| Morris Museum | organization needs | $1,000 |
| Jewish Federation | organization needs | $650 |
| The Seeing Eye | organization needs | $600 |
| Arnold P Gold Foundation | organization needs | $500 |
| Opera at Florham | organization needs | $300 |
| Foundation for Morristown | organization needs | $250 |
Officers and trustees
- Barbara A Pelson
- Mark A Pelson
- Jonathan A Pelson
- Daniel A Pelson
Questions people ask
Does The Pelson Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Pelson Foundation give?
$68,322 in tax year 2025, across 14 grants, with a typical grant of $5,811.
Who runs The Pelson Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Barbara A Pelson (Trustee), Mark A Pelson (Trustee), Jonathan A Pelson (Trustee) and Daniel A Pelson (Trustee).
What does The Pelson Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly arts and culture and faith communities.