Tom and Nancy Elsaesser Foundation
Invitation OnlySolvang, California · EIN 71-1042217 · Private foundation
Half of its grants to organizations were between $1,000 and $10,000.
How to apply
On its return for tax year 2025 the foundation checked the box saying it only makes contributions to preselected charitable organizations and does not accept unsolicited requests for funds.
What it funds
Share of grant lines on the latest return, classified from the purpose each grant states.
Where it gives
11% of grants went outside California.
Grants paid in tax year 2025
| Recipient | Location | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Relief | Santa Barbara, CA | General | $25,000 |
| Cottage Hospital of Sta Ynez Valley | Solvang, CA | Unrestricted | $10,000 |
| Pasadena Humane Society | Pasadena, CA | Unrestricted | $10,000 |
| Stuart C Gildred Family YMCA | Santa Ynez, CA | Unrestricted | $5,000 |
| Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara, CA | Unrestricted | $5,000 |
| Surfrider Foundation | San Clemente, CA | Ventura county chapter | $2,000 |
| American Women for International Un | Schaumberg, IL | Unrestricted | $1,000 |
| California Nature Art Museum | Solvang, CA | Unrestricted | $1,000 |
| Elverhoj Museum | Solvang, CA | Unrestricted | $1,000 |
The return also lists 3 grants to individuals ($28,000). We do not publish the names of individual recipients.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Grant lines |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $88,000 | 12 |
| 2024 | $104,000 | 11 |
| 2023 | $94,000 | 9 |
Sources
- IRS Form 990-PF, tax year 2025, filed Mar 5, 2026 - IRS e-file batch, object ID 202610649349101006
- IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search for EIN 71-1042217
- Profile updated Nov 7, 2026
Facts on this page come from the foundation's own IRS Form 990-PF filings as published by the IRS. Grantvello does not know whether a foundation is accepting proposals right now: a past grant is not an open opportunity. Always confirm current guidelines with the funder before applying.