Whole Foods Market is deeply committed to nourishing people and the planet. A key aspect of this commitment is the Whole Foods Market Store Giving program, designed to empower local communities. This initiative is driven by passionate team members across our stores who understand the unique needs of their neighborhoods and are dedicated to making a positive impact right where they live and work.
What is the Whole Foods Market Store Giving Program?
The Whole Foods Market Store Giving program provides biannual financial support to registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in the US, registered Canadian charitable organizations, and UK charitable incorporated organizations. These donations are specifically aimed at organizations focused on crucial areas such as:
- Food Access: Initiatives that work to ensure everyone has access to healthy, nutritious food.
- Environmental Stewardship: Programs dedicated to protecting and preserving our environment for future generations.
- Closely Related Needs: Organizations addressing other critical community needs that align with Whole Foods Market’s core values.
This store-led approach ensures that support is directed to where it’s needed most within the communities served by each Whole Foods Market store. It’s a grassroots effort that reflects our belief in local empowerment and community-driven solutions.
Who Can Apply for Whole Foods Market Store Giving?
To be eligible for consideration in the Whole Foods Market Store Giving program, organizations must meet specific criteria. Applicants must be:
- Registered Nonprofits: Hold verified nonprofit status as a 501(c)(3) in the United States, a registered charitable organization in Canada, or a charitable incorporated organization in the UK.
- Community-Focused: Direct their programs and services towards communities located near Whole Foods Market stores.
- Aligned with Core Values: Operate programs that resonate with Whole Foods Market’s core values, which emphasize quality, community, and environmental responsibility.
Please note that the Whole Foods Market Store Giving program does not provide gift card or in-kind donations.
How to Apply for Support from a Whole Foods Market Store
Applying for funding from the Whole Foods Market Store Giving program is a straightforward process conducted through our online Community Engagement Portal. To request support, please follow these steps:
- Review Eligibility Guidelines: Carefully examine the eligibility and funding guidelines detailed on our website (and below) to ensure your organization qualifies.
- Visit the Community Engagement Portal: Access the Community Engagement Portal to begin your application.
Key 2025 Voting Timeline:
The Whole Foods Market Store Giving program operates on a biannual voting cycle. Here are the important dates for 2025:
Quarter 2 Vote
- Application Deadline: April 13, 2025
- Voting Dates: April 29 – May 11, 2025
Quarter 4 Vote
- Application Deadline: October 12, 2025
- Voting Dates: October 28 – November 9, 2025
Be sure to submit your application before the relevant deadline to be considered for each voting period.
Important Guidelines for Recipient Organizations
Organizations receiving donations from a Whole Foods Market store are expected to adhere to certain guidelines. These include:
- No Publicity Without Approval: Recipient organizations must obtain written approval from Whole Foods Market before issuing any public statements, press releases, or advertising related to the donation or the relationship with Whole Foods Market.
- Trademark Restrictions: The use of Whole Foods Market’s name, trademarks, or logos is prohibited without prior written consent. Any approved use must comply with Whole Foods Market’s brand guidelines.
These guidelines ensure the integrity of the Whole Foods Market Store Giving program and protect the brand.
Donation Payment Process
Whole Foods Market store donations are processed through Versaic grants disbursement, utilizing the Benevity platform. Benevity is a trusted service that facilitates efficient and secure donation distribution to nonprofit organizations. You can learn more about Benevity HERE.
Request Support Today from Your Local Whole Foods Market Store
The Whole Foods Market Store Giving program is a testament to our ongoing commitment to the communities we serve. We encourage eligible nonprofit organizations to apply for support and partner with their local Whole Foods Market store to create positive change.
To request support, please visit our Community Engagement Portal.
For broader initiatives and global impact programs, please explore the Whole Foods Market Foundation.
