The Cottonwood Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Cottonwood Foundation is a private foundation in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. In tax year 2025 it gave $140,289 in 2 grants; the typical grant was $70,144 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 2025.
- Grants paid, 2025$140,289
- Number of grants2
- Typical grant$70,144
- Largest grant$100,000
- Assets$3.2 million
- New grantees50%
Giving in 2025 was up from $50,000 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 | $50,000 | 1 | $2.7 million |
| 2024 | $50,000 | 1 | $3.1 million |
| 2025 | $140,289 | 2 | $3.2 million |
How to apply
The Cottonwood 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 Cottonwood Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 2 states, the most to Indiana.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana | 1 | $100,000 |
| Ohio | 1 | $40,289 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| University of Notre Dame | General support | $100,000 |
| Fidelity Charitable | The grotto fund | $40,289 |
Officers and trustees
- Carol Hoffmann
- William Hoffmann
Questions people ask
Does The Cottonwood Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Cottonwood Foundation give?
$140,289 in tax year 2025, across 2 grants, with a typical grant of $70,144.
Who runs The Cottonwood Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Carol Hoffmann (Trustee) and William Hoffmann (Trustee).
What does The Cottonwood Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education.