The Starfish Group
Preselected recipients only
The Starfish Group is a private foundation in Lopez Island, Washington. In tax year 2025 it gave $650,000 in 2 grants; the typical grant was $325,000 and the largest $500,000. 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$650,000
- Number of grants2
- Typical grant$325,000
- Largest grant$500,000
- Assets$172,544
- New grantees0%
Giving in 2025 was up from $325,000 the year before.
0% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, so most of its money goes to organizations it already funds.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $102,500 | 9 | $24,457 |
| 2024 | $325,000 | 3 | $812,550 |
| 2025 | $650,000 | 2 | $172,544 |
How to apply
The Starfish Group 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 Starfish Group funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 2 states, the most to New York.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| New York | 1 | $500,000 |
| Connecticut | 1 | $150,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Icahn School of Medicine | charity support | $500,000 |
| Yale University | charity support | $150,000 |
Officers and trustees
- Virginia Anne Gilder
- Britt-Louise Gilder
- Margaret Mathews
- Lynn Slaughter
- Adrienne Morris
Questions people ask
Does The Starfish Group accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Starfish Group give?
$650,000 in tax year 2025, across 2 grants, with a typical grant of $325,000.
Who runs The Starfish Group?
Its 2025 filing lists Virginia Anne Gilder (Co-President), Britt-Louise Gilder (Co-President), Margaret Mathews (Secretary) and Lynn Slaughter (Treasurer) among 5 officers and trustees.
What does The Starfish Group fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education and health.