The Walmart Foundation is accepting applications for its State Giving grants for nonprofit organizations. The Foundation awards grants of up to $25,000 twice a year to underserved populations who need help in every state. Applications must be submitted online by March 1 at www.walmartfoundation.org/stategiving
The proposed use of the grant must fit within one of the Walmart Foundation’s core giving areas: Hunger Relief & Nutrition, Sustainability, Women’s Economic Empowerment or Career Opportunity. Launched in 2008, associate-led State Advisory Councils work with the Walmart Foundation to identify needs within their state, review grant requests and make funding recommendations to the Foundation. Eligible applicants must have a current 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status in order to meet the program’s minimum funding criteria.
In 2011, Indiana Walmart stores, Sam’s Club locations and the Walmart Foundation gave more than $26.8 million in cash and in-kind donations to local organizations in the communities they serve. Through additional funds donated by customers and Walmart and Sam’s Club associates around the state, Indiana contributions totaled more than $29.7 million. In 2012, Indiana-based charities received more than $1 million from State Giving Program grants issued by the Walmart Foundation.