Costco Wholesale offers a charitable grant program aimed at supporting nonprofit organizations that align with its focus areas of children, education, and health and human services. To apply for funding, organizations must be classified as 501(c)(3) nonprofits and meet Costco’s specific giving guidelines. The program is designed to decentralize charitable giving, ensuring that contributions are directed to the communities where Costco operates, benefiting locations where its employees and members live and work.

To complete the application, several essential documents are required. These include a cover letter, the organization’s current and past year’s budget information, and program budget details (if applicable). Applicants who have previously received funding from Costco must also provide a measurable results or impact report for the most recent year of support. This helps demonstrate the outcomes and effectiveness of past funding.

It is important to note that Costco does not fund a wide range of activities and programs. Excluded from consideration are individuals seeking direct aid, capital campaigns, building projects, transportation and travel expenses, political or religious organizations for religious purposes, and staff salaries or training. Additionally, Costco will not fund government agencies, loans, research studies, or athletic teams. The list of exclusions also includes animal-related programs, merchandise for fundraisers, awareness campaigns, development of media projects, festivals, and other similar events.

Applicants must acknowledge and agree to these restrictions as part of the application process. This agreement is a required step before submitting the application, and applicants will have the option to save or print their submission once completed. While Costco’s funding is broad in scope when it comes to health, education, and children’s services, the detailed list of exclusions underscores the company’s commitment to focusing its resources on specific, impactful areas.

Costco’s grant program is highly focused on local impact, and nonprofits working within the communities where Costco does business are encouraged to apply. Organizations that fall outside the company’s geographic or thematic focus areas, or those seeking funds for excluded purposes, should seek alternative funding sources. By concentrating its giving in this way, Costco aims to maximize the effect of its charitable efforts in areas that align with its corporate mission and values.

For eligible nonprofits, this grant opportunity provides a structured process for seeking support. Understanding the guidelines and preparing the necessary documentation will help organizations streamline their application, increasing the likelihood of successful submission.