SYYK Foundation
Preselected recipients only
SYYK Foundation is a private foundation in Alexandria, Virginia. In tax year 2025 it gave $1.6 million in 5 grants; the typical grant was $500,000 and the largest $625,000. 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$1.6 million
- Number of grants5
- Typical grant$500,000
- Largest grant$625,000
- Assets$30.3 million
- New grantees20%
Giving in 2025 was down from $1.6 million the year before.
20% 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 | $1.3 million | 11 | $28.0 million |
| 2024 | $1.6 million | 4 | $27.3 million |
| 2025 | $1.6 million | 5 | $30.3 million |
How to apply
SYYK 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 SYYK Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 5 states, the most to California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 1 | $625,000 |
| Massachusetts | 1 | $500,000 |
| Virginia | 1 | $500,000 |
| New York | 1 | $1,500 |
| Louisiana | 1 | $140 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Harvey Mudd College | General Fund | $625,000 |
| George Mason University Foundation | For YYK Endowed Professor | $500,000 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Continuation of pledge for graduate fellowship | $500,000 |
| Doctors Without Borders | Health Care | $1,500 |
| LSU Health Foundation New Orleans | General Fund | $140 |
Officers and trustees
- Paul So
- Peter So
Questions people ask
Does SYYK Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does SYYK Foundation give?
$1.6 million in tax year 2025, across 5 grants, with a typical grant of $500,000.
Who runs SYYK Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Paul So (President / Treasury) and Peter So (Secretary).
What does SYYK Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education and health.