The Terrence and Ruth Elkes Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Terrence and Ruth Elkes Foundation is a private foundation in New York, New York. In tax year 2025 it gave $998,000 in 16 grants; the typical grant was $25,500 and the largest $400,000. 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$998,000
- Number of grants16
- Typical grant$25,500
- Largest grant$400,000
- Assets$21.8 million
- New grantees23%
Giving in 2025 was up from $895,000 the year before.
23% 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 | $883,000 | 11 | $19.8 million |
| 2024 | $895,000 | 16 | $20.8 million |
| 2025 | $998,000 | 16 | $21.8 million |
How to apply
The Terrence and Ruth Elkes 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 Terrence and Ruth Elkes Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 4 states, the most to California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 10 | $598,000 |
| New Jersey | 1 | $150,000 |
| District of Columbia | 2 | $140,000 |
| New York | 3 | $110,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| San Carlos Education Foundation | Charitable | $400,000 |
| Princeton University | Charitable | $150,000 |
| Free the Slaves | Charitable | $130,000 |
| Thorn | Charitable | $75,000 |
| Individual | Charitable | $50,000 |
| Freedom Fund | Charitable | $50,000 |
| Individual | Charitable | $30,000 |
| Menlo School | Charitable | $26,000 |
| Survivor Alliance | Charitable | $25,000 |
| Polaris Project | Charitable | $10,000 |
| SF Fine Arts Museum | Charitable | $10,000 |
| California Academy of Sciences | Charitable | $10,000 |
| SF Museum of Modern Art | Charitable | $10,000 |
| Exploritorium | Charitable | $10,000 |
| Individual | Charitable | $10,000 |
| Make A Wish Foundation | Charitable | $2,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Daniel Elkes
- David Bloom
Questions people ask
Does The Terrence and Ruth Elkes Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Terrence and Ruth Elkes Foundation give?
$998,000 in tax year 2025, across 16 grants, with a typical grant of $25,500.
Who runs The Terrence and Ruth Elkes Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Daniel Elkes (Trustee) and David Bloom (Trustee).
What does The Terrence and Ruth Elkes Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education and arts and culture.