Dobbs Foundation
Preselected recipients only
Dobbs Foundation is a private foundation in Memphis, Tennessee. In tax year 2025 it gave $2.2 million in 6 grants; the typical grant was $130,000 and the largest $1.5 million. 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$2.2 million
- Number of grants6
- Typical grant$130,000
- Largest grant$1.5 million
- Assets$11.0 million
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $100,000 | 1 | $2.1 million |
| 2024 | $0 | 0 | $2.3 million |
| 2025 | $2.2 million | 6 | $11.0 million |
How to apply
Dobbs 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 Dobbs Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 2 states, the most to Tennessee.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 5 | $2.2 million |
| Colorado | 1 | $10,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Hutchison School | General operating | $1.5 million |
| St Georges Independent School Foundation | General operating | $450,000 |
| Memphis University School | General operating | $250,000 |
| Young Life | General operating | $10,000 |
| Carnival Education Fund | General operating | $10,000 |
| Downline Ministries | General operating | $5,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Edward J Dobbs
- Michael A Orians
- W Christopher Crosby
Questions people ask
Does Dobbs Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Dobbs Foundation give?
$2.2 million in tax year 2025, across 6 grants, with a typical grant of $130,000.
Who runs Dobbs Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Edward J Dobbs (President/Director), Michael A Orians (Treasurer/Director) and W Christopher Crosby (Secretary/Director).
What does Dobbs Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education.