Updated Oct 31, 2026
Private foundations based in Ames, Iowa
6 grantmaking foundations headquartered in Ames, Iowa, holding $51M in assets. Ranked by grants paid in their latest 990-PF; 1 on this page say they accept applications. For foundations ranked by where their grants went, see local funders.
| Foundation | Grants paid | Median grant | Accepts applications | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underwood Family Foundationsince 2005 | $756K53 grants · 2025 | $3,500 | Preselected only | $15M |
| Becker Family Foundationsince 2005 | $737K1 grants · 2025 | $737K | Preselected only | $15M |
| Burke Family Foundationsince 2013 | $612K25 grants · 2025 | $10K | Preselected only | $5.2M |
| F William Beckwith & Leola I Beckwith Charitable Foundationsince 1998 | $270K4 grants · 2025 | $55K | Preselected only | $8.0M |
| 46 1 Fundsince 2015 | $240K1 grants · 2024 | $240K | Preselected only | $3.6M |
| Daniel J & Ann L Krumm Charitable Trustsince 1988 | $234K23 grants · 2025 | $5,000 | Yes | $4.6M |
Sources: IRS Business Master File (assets), ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer and IRS 990-PF e-file (grants paid, application policy). "Accepts applications" reflects the foundation's own Part XV checkbox.
Open grant programs in Iowa
All 2| Deadline | Grant | Funder | Award ceiling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rollingno deadline | Iowa Arts Council — Organizational GrantsStateIowa Arts Council | Iowa Arts Council | Not listed |
| Rollingno deadline | Humanities Iowa — Humanities GrantsStateHumanities Iowa | Humanities Iowa | Not listed |
Common questions
How many private foundations are based in Ames, Iowa?
Our directory lists 6 private grantmaking foundations in Ames, Iowa with at least $1 million in assets, holding a combined $51M. The data comes from the IRS Exempt Organizations Business Master File and Form 990-PF.
How do I get a grant from a private foundation?
Start with foundations that already fund organizations like yours nearby. Read the grantee list on each profile, check whether the foundation accepts applications (it says so on its 990-PF), and lead with a short letter of inquiry. Many family foundations fund only organizations they already know; an introduction through a shared grantee or board member works better than a cold proposal.
Can you help us approach foundations?
Yes. Our grant writers research foundation prospects, write letters of inquiry, and build a foundation fundraising plan. Request a free consultation.