The Behnke Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Behnke Foundation is a private foundation in Seattle, Washington. In tax year 2025 it gave $333,071 in 11 grants; the typical grant was $2,500 and the largest $307,202. 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$333,071
- Number of grants11
- Typical grant$2,500
- Largest grant$307,202
- Assets$3.0 million
- New grantees36%
Giving in 2025 was down from $349,275 the year before.
36% 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 | $115,847 | 14 | $3.0 million |
| 2024 | $349,275 | 11 | $3.0 million |
| 2025 | $333,071 | 11 | $3.0 million |
How to apply
The Behnke 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 The Behnke Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 5 states, the most to Washington.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | 7 | $326,571 |
| New Jersey | 1 | $2,500 |
| New York | 1 | $2,500 |
| Idaho | 1 | $1,000 |
| California | 1 | $500 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Cornish College of the Arts | Art and culture | $307,202 |
| Wellspring Family Services | Health and human services | $5,869 |
| Fifth Avenue Theater | Art and culture | $5,500 |
| Overlake Medical Center | Health and human services | $3,000 |
| The Lisa McGraw Figure Skating Foundation | Art and culture | $2,500 |
| Skidmore College | Education | $2,500 |
| Planned Parenthood Grant NW | Health and human services | $2,000 |
| Feral Cat Sanctuary | Animal rescue | $1,500 |
| Little Bit Therapecutic Riding Center | Health and human services | $1,500 |
| The Community Library | Health and human services | $1,000 |
| University of San Diego | Education | $500 |
Officers and trustees
- Carl Behnke
- Marisa Behnke
- Merrill Behnke
- Renee Behnke
Questions people ask
Does The Behnke Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Behnke Foundation give?
$333,071 in tax year 2025, across 11 grants, with a typical grant of $2,500.
Who runs The Behnke Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Carl Behnke (Chair), Marisa Behnke (Trustee), Merrill Behnke (Trustee) and Renee Behnke (Trustee).
What does The Behnke Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly arts and culture, education and health.