Samis Foundation
Samis Foundation is a Seattle-based private foundation that funds intensive, immersive Jewish education in Washington State and philanthropic initiatives in Israel. The foundation supports Jewish day schools, overnight camps, teen Israel experiences and other youth programs, and publishes detailed grant reports and funding policies on its site. Grantmaking is by invitation only and the site provides contact information and staff directory.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Established Jewish educational or youth organizations—particularly Jewish day schools, overnight camps, teen Israel programs, or related nonprofits—preferably with operations or a clear connection to Washington State.
Good Fit
- • Programs focused on Jewish education or youth experiences (day schools, camps, Israel trips).
- • An established track record or prior funding history in Jewish educational work.
- • Organizational presence or partnerships in Washington State.
- • Capacity to manage mid-to-large grants (evidence of sustained programming or scale).
- • Existing relationships or introductions to the foundation’s program staff or board.
Geography
Grants reached organizations in 11 states (and Ontario), showing multi-state activity, but roughly 74% of dollars were concentrated in Washington State, indicating a strong in-state emphasis despite some out-of-state giving.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows 70 distinct grantees spanning many independent organizations, with a mix of small and large awards; this breadth indicates a wide recipient set even though dollars are somewhat concentrated among top recipients.
New Applicants
The foundation describes grantmaking as invitation-only, but filings show 17 new recipients in 2023 (about 24%), so some new entrants do appear; overall the pattern looks relationship-driven and invitation-focused, making unsolicited access plausible but limited.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
