For many nonprofit organizations, corporate foundation grants are a critical source of funding.
Unlike direct corporate giving, which may be handled by a marketing or community relations department, grants from a corporate foundation come from a separate, private legal entity established by a for-profit company.
This structure often allows for a more formal and consistent grantmaking process.\n\nThis article provides a clear, foundational guide for grant seekers looking to secure funding from corporate foundations.
We will cover eligibility, the application process, and provide examples of recurring grant programs from major corporations.\n\n
What Are Corporate Foundation Grants?\n\nA corporate foundation is a nonprofit entity created and financially supported by a business.
Its primary purpose is to make charitable grants that often align with the parent company's values, industry, or corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals.
For example, a technology company's foundation might focus on STEM education, while a national bank's foundation may prioritize economic mobility and community development.\n\nKey characteristics include:\n\n* Separate Legal Status: They are independent 501(c)(3) organizations.\n* Mission Alignment: Funding priorities are typically linked to the parent company's brand and mission.\n* Formal Process: They have structured application processes, guidelines, and reporting requirements, much like traditional private foundations.\n\n
Who Is Eligible for Corporate Foundation Grants?\n\nWhile specific requirements vary by foundation, most have a core set of eligibility criteria.
Before applying, your organization must typically have:\n\n* 501(c)(3) Status: The vast majority of corporate foundations only grant to organizations officially recognized as tax-exempt by the IRS.\n* Geographic Focus: Many foundations prioritize organizations serving communities where the parent company has a significant presence (e.g., headquarters, major offices, or retail locations).\n* Mission Alignment: Your organization's mission and the project you are seeking funding for must directly align with the foundation's stated funding priorities.
Applying for an arts program from a foundation focused solely on environmental conservation is an immediate disqualification.\n\n
How to Find and Apply for Corporate Grants: A 4-Step Process\n\nSecuring a corporate foundation grant requires research and a systematic approach.
Following these steps can increase your chances of success.\n\n
Step 1: Identify and Research Prospects\n\nStart by identifying companies with a strong presence in your community or a mission that aligns with your work.
Look for large, national corporations as well as regional businesses.
Once you have a list, visit their websites and look for a "Foundation," "Community," or "Corporate Responsibility" link to find their grantmaking guidelines and priorities.\n\n
Step 2: Thoroughly Review Grant Guidelines\n\nOnce you identify a promising foundation, carefully read their grant guidelines.
Pay close attention to:\n\n* Deadlines: Are they rolling or fixed? Do they have multiple cycles?\n* Funding Priorities: Do they state exactly what they will and will not fund?\n* Geographic Restrictions: Are you located in their service area?\n* Required Documents: Do you need financial statements, a list of your board of directors, or letters of support?\n\nMissing any of these details is one of the most common reasons for rejection.\n\n
Step 3: Prepare a Compelling Proposal\n\nYour grant proposal is your formal request for funding.
Most corporate foundation proposals require the same core components: a clear needs statement, a detailed project description with goals and objectives, an organizational background, a project budget, and an evaluation plan.
Tailor your language to reflect the foundation's priorities and terminology.\n\n
Step 4: Submit and Follow Up\n\nSubmit your application through the foundation's specified portal or method before the deadline.
After submission, follow their instructions regarding communication.
Most foundations will outline a timeline for their review process and specify whether they accept follow-up inquiries.\n\n
Examples of Major Corporate Foundation Grants\n\nBelow are examples of well-established, recurring grant programs from major corporate foundations.
Deadlines are based on previous cycles and should be verified on the official websites as the dates approach.\n\n
Walmart Foundation: Local Community Grants\n\n* Funder: The Walmart Foundation\n* Focus Area: Supports local nonprofit organizations in communities with Walmart or Sam's Club stores.
Focus areas include community and economic development, food security, health and human services, and quality of life.\n* Typical Funding Amount: $250 to $5,000\n* Projected 2026 Deadline: The first of four annual application cycles is expected to close in mid-April 2026.\n* Eligibility Summary: Must be a 501(c)(3) organization or government entity (like a school or library) and serve the community of a local store.\n* Application Link: Walmart Foundation Local Community Grants\n\n
Bank of America Charitable Foundation: Economic Mobility Grants\n\n* Funder: Bank of America Charitable Foundation\n* Focus Area: Focuses on improving economic mobility by addressing needs related to workforce development, education, and basic needs like hunger and housing.\n* Typical Funding Amount: Varies significantly by program and region.\n* Projected 2026 Deadline: This foundation often runs multiple Requests for Proposals (RFPs) throughout the year. A common RFP for workforce development typically has a deadline in late May 2026.\n* Eligibility Summary: Open to 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Bank of America's designated markets.
Programs must align with their focus on advancing economic mobility for individuals and families.\n* Application Link: Bank of America Charitable Foundation\n\n