Quick charity verification for Tensor Foundation (EIN: 137017367)
Verdict: Tensor Foundation shows mixed signals
65/100Mission Score
$815KRevenue
$3.1MAssets
2Red Flags
3Strengths
Red Flags
Consistent deficit spending (expenses exceeding revenue) in most years.
Declining asset base over the past decade, from $3.97M in 2011 to $2.73M in 2023.
Strengths
Zero officer compensation reported across all filings, indicating high transparency and efficient use of funds for executive pay.
Very low liabilities reported consistently, suggesting strong debt management.
Maintains a substantial asset base ($2.73M in 2023) relative to annual expenses, providing a buffer despite deficit spending.
Spending Breakdown
How Tensor Foundation allocates its funds across programs, administration, and fundraising.
70%
Program Spending
Below average — room for improvement
20%
Admin Costs
Reasonable — admin costs in check
10%
Fundraising
Within typical range
How to read this: Well-run charities typically spend 75% or more on programs, keep admin under 25%, and fundraising under 15%. A high program ratio means more of every dollar goes directly to the mission.
How to Interpret This Report
What Red Flags Mean
Red flags are potential warning signs identified by AI analysis of IRS 990 filings. They may indicate issues like declining revenue, high executive pay relative to program spending, lack of transparency, or governance concerns. A single red flag does not necessarily mean an organization is untrustworthy, but multiple flags warrant further investigation before donating.
What Mission Score Measures
The Mission Score (0-100) evaluates how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated purpose. It combines multiple factors: program spending efficiency (how much goes to programs vs. overhead), financial health and sustainability, governance quality, transparency in reporting, and consistency of operations over time. A score of 70+ indicates strong alignment with the organization’s mission.
Using This Data for Donation Decisions
Use this report as one input in your decision. Look at the overall Mission Score for a quick assessment, review red flags and strengths for specific concerns, check the spending breakdown to see where money goes, and compare executive compensation to the organization’s size. Consider viewing the full transparency report for deeper analysis, and always verify tax-exempt status with the IRS before making large donations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tensor Foundation
Is Tensor Foundation a legitimate charity?
Based on AI analysis of IRS 990 filings, Tensor Foundation (EIN: 137017367) shows mixed signals. Mission Score: 65/100. 2 red flags identified, 3 strengths noted.
Is Tensor Foundation a good charity to donate to?
Tensor Foundation has a Mission Score of 65/100. Revenue: $815K. Assets: $3.1M. Review the full transparency report for detailed spending breakdown and executive compensation analysis.
What is the EIN for Tensor Foundation?
The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Tensor Foundation is 137017367. This is the unique tax ID assigned by the IRS.
What is a Mission Score?
The Mission Score is a 0-100 rating that measures how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated mission. It factors in program spending efficiency, financial transparency, governance practices, and outcome reporting. Scores above 70 indicate strong mission alignment, 40-69 suggest mixed performance, and below 40 signals potential concerns.
How does Tensor Foundation spend its money?
Tensor Foundation allocates 70% to programs, 20% to administration, and 10% to fundraising. Healthy nonprofits typically spend 75%+ on programs.
How can I verify Tensor Foundation's tax-exempt status?
You can verify Tensor Foundation's tax-exempt status using EIN 137017367 on the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) at apps.irs.gov/app/eos. You can also request copies of their Form 990 directly from the organization, as they are required by law to provide them upon request.
AI Transparency Report
The Tensor Foundation demonstrates a consistent pattern of spending exceeding its revenue in most recent years, as evidenced by expenses of $379,082 against revenue of $226,432 in 2023 and $330,819 against $247,780 in 2022. This trend has led to a gradual decline in assets from $3,970,373 in 2011 to $2,729,051 in 2023. While the organization maintains a healthy asset base relative to its annual expenses, the sustained deficit spending raises questions about long-term financial sustainability without significant changes in funding or expenditure. The consistent reporting of zero officer compensation across all filings indicates strong financial transparency regarding executive pay, which is a positive sign for donors. However, without a detailed breakdown of expenses into program, administrative, and fundraising categories, it is challenging to fully assess spending efficiency and program focus.