Melvin S Cohen Foundation Incorporated
This organization is a private foundation dedicated to supporting various charitable causes, with a strong emphasis on Jewish organizations, education, civil rights, and health-related initiatives. Its mission reflects a commitment to community service, educational advancement, and advocacy for civil liberties. The foundation provides funding primarily for operating expenses, scholarships, and specific research projects, such as melanoma research. While it is based in Wisconsin, its grantmaking extends across multiple states, demonstrating a broad geographic focus in its philanthropic efforts.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
An organization seeking operating support or program funding that can submit a concise mailed letter and proposed budget by the stated December 1 deadline; fits include education, Jewish community organizations, health research, or policy/advocacy groups similar to past grantees.
Good Fit
- • Requests for operating support or general operating budgets.
- • Project size in the mid-five-figure to low six-figure range.
- • Mission alignment with education, Jewish community work, health research, or civil-liberties/advocacy organizations.
- • Willingness to apply via a mailed letter with a proposed budget and to follow up by phone.
- • Capacity to demonstrate organizational track record (the funder supports many independent charities).
Geography
Observed grants in the latest year reached about a dozen states, with major shares to Pennsylvania, Louisiana, and Minnesota; the foundation is based in Wisconsin but nearly all dollars were directed out of state.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows 28 distinct recipients across multiple sectors and independent organizations, with a mix of returning grantees and new entrants rather than a tiny closed circle.
New Applicants
Direct evidence of openness exists: 11 new recipients were funded in 2023 and the foundation publishes a concrete application route (mailed letter with budget and a December 1 deadline), so unfamiliar applicants have a real entry path.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
