How to Use IRS 990 Data to Research Funders Like a Pro

Every private foundation in the United States must file an IRS Form 990-PF annually. These filings are public record and contain a wealth of information about a foundation's giving patterns.

What You Can Learn From a 990

Total Giving

Part XV shows the total amount of grants paid during the year. This tells you the foundation's overall capacity.

Specific Grantees

The 990-PF lists every organization that received a grant, including:

• Organization name
• Amount awarded
• Purpose of the grant

Grant Size Patterns

By reviewing multiple years of filings, you can identify:

• Typical grant range (minimum to maximum)
• Average grant size
• Whether they give large one-time grants or smaller recurring ones

Geographic Focus

The addresses of grantees reveal whether the foundation gives locally, regionally, or nationally.

Stated Purpose

Part III includes the foundation's stated charitable purpose, which reveals their priorities.

Where to Find 990 Data

1. ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer (free) — Search by foundation name or EIN
2. Candid/GuideStar (paid) — More detailed analysis and search tools
3. IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search — Official source, less user-friendly

How to Analyze a 990 for Grant Research

Step 1: Check Total Giving Trends

Is the foundation's giving increasing, stable, or declining? Growing foundations are more likely to fund new grantees.

Step 2: Review Past Grantees

Look for organizations similar to yours. If they've funded similar missions, sizes, and geographies, you're likely a fit.

Step 3: Calculate Average Grant Size

Add up all grants and divide by the number of grantees. This tells you what to realistically request.

Step 4: Note the Purpose Descriptions

The brief descriptions next to each grant reveal what language the foundation uses and what they value.

Step 5: Identify Patterns Over Time

Review 3-5 years of filings. Consistent grantees suggest the foundation values long-term relationships. New grantees each year suggest they're open to new applicants.

Using 990 Data Strategically

Once you've analyzed a foundation's 990, you can:

• Tailor your proposal language to match their stated purposes
• Request an amount within their typical range
• Reference their past giving to show you've done your homework
• Identify the right contact person from officer listings

GrantAI analyzes IRS 990 data automatically and scores your alignment with 200+ foundations.