The Thomasson Foundation

Restricted Access
Private Foundation
INDIANAPOLIS, IndianaSmallEIN: 351870799
Education NonprofitsReligious Educational InstitutionsReligious and Faith-based Organizations

This organization is a private foundation focused on supporting educational initiatives and faith-based missions. Its mission emphasizes the importance of education, particularly in religious contexts, as evidenced by its funding of various religious universities and colleges. The foundation primarily serves educational institutions and religious organizations, reflecting a commitment to faith-based education and community service. Its grantmaking activities indicate a strong dedication to enhancing educational opportunities and supporting missions that align with its values.

Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026

Ideal Applicant

Established faith-based educational institutions or mission organizations with a track record and connections to the foundation's network.

Good Fit

  • Mission alignment with Christian higher education or mission work.
  • Organizational scale and budget consistent with prior grants (typical awards in the $5k–$60k range).
  • Existing or referral-based relationship to foundation leadership or recurring grantees.
  • Geographic presence in one of the many states the foundation has funded.

Geography

Broad

Observed grants span 15 states (foundation located in IN) with roughly 83% of dollars going out of state, indicating a broad multi-state footprint rather than a purely local funder.

Recipient Variety

Broad

In the latest year the foundation made 35 grants to 35 distinct organizations, including a mix of colleges, universities, and mission groups; many grantees recur but the recipient set is large and diverse for the foundation's size.

New Applicants

Restrictive

The foundation explicitly marks applicants as 'preselected' and the publicly visible application path is invitation-only; while six new recipients appeared in the latest year, the majority of dollars and relationships are recurring, so an unfamiliar applicant is unlikely to enter without a referral or invitation.

Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026