BDT Foundation
Preselected recipients only
BDT Foundation is a private foundation in Athens, Ohio. In tax year 2025 it gave $31,000 in 4 grants; the typical grant was $2,500 and the largest $25,000. 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$31,000
- Number of grants4
- Typical grant$2,500
- Largest grant$25,000
- Assets$396,676
- New grantees50%
Giving in 2025 was up from $24,500 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $27,020 | 3 | $495,092 |
| 2023 | $60,500 | 10 | $465,203 |
| 2024 | $24,500 | 3 | $439,654 |
| 2025 | $31,000 | 4 | $396,676 |
How to apply
BDT 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.
Foundation website IRS filings on ProPublica
What BDT Foundation funds
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in Ohio.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 4 | $31,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Neighborhood Design Center | Operating expenses | $25,000 |
| Stuarts Opera House | Operating expenses | $3,000 |
| The Ohio University Foundation | Operating expenses | $2,000 |
| Athens County Historical Society | Operating expenses | $1,000 |
Officers and trustees
- James Thomas
- Donald Dispenza
- Nicholas Bittner
Questions people ask
Does BDT Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does BDT Foundation give?
$31,000 in tax year 2025, across 4 grants, with a typical grant of $2,500.
Who runs BDT Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists James Thomas (President), Donald Dispenza (Vice President) and Nicholas Bittner (Secretary).
What does BDT Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly arts and culture.