A Complete Guide to Costco Donation Request

Securing funding and support for nonprofit causes can be quite challenging, particularly for organizations dedicated to improving children’s education, health, and human services.

Consequently, many nonprofits face difficulties in finding reliable sources of support and often struggle with complex donation processes. As a result, this can delay their impact and limit their ability to achieve their goals.

Fortunately, Costco offers a streamlined donation process to assist eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Specifically, Costco focuses on supporting causes related to children, education, and health and human services. They provide both Warehouse Donations for local causes and Grant Applications for broader initiatives. Importantly, their application process is open year-round, ensuring that your organization can seek support whenever needed.

Therefore, to apply for a Costco donation, first ensure your organization meets the eligibility criteria. Then, review the available giving options and submit your request either online or to your local Costco warehouse. For additional details, visit Costco’s charitable giving page or contact the Community Relations Department for further assistance.

Costco Donation Request Details

What they donate

Money grants, not more than 10% of the program’s overall budget

Donations are small & easy for guests

Whom they Donate to

• Supports nonprofit organizations focusing on children, education, and/or health and human services
• 501(c)(3) required
• Residents of all states except AR, ME, WV, and WY

Approval rate: 25%

• Approved: 25%
• Declined: 21%
• No Response: 54%

Impression: Costco is a generous donor. They are likely to respond and approve your request if you match their criteria.

• Easy to apply and shop with the gift card.
• Your event should be at least 42 days away
• You are a 501(c)(3), or have confirmed that it’s not required.

Costco Donation Request Checklist

Costco Wholesale’s Warehouse Donation program supports organizations focused on children, education, or health and human services that serve local neighborhoods. To be eligible, organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status.

• Direct aid to individuals
• Capital campaigns, building projects, or equipment
• Transportation and travel expenses
• Political organizations
• Religious organizations for religious purposes
• Salaries
• Government agencies
• Loans or investments
• Research studies
• Athletic teams, events, or sponsorships
• Animal-related programs, including shelters
• Merchandise for fundraisers and auctions
• Symposiums, conferences, conventions, or professional association meetings
• Merchandise promotions, partnerships, or advertising
• General awareness campaigns
• Development or production of books, films, videos, television programs, or websites
• Parties, celebrations, parades, festivals, and raffles
• Deficit funding

Due to budget constraints, warehouse donations typically range from $25.00 to $50.00.

To Apply:

• Ensure your organization meets the eligibility criteria.
• Complete the donation request form.
• Include a copy of your IRS tax letter and 501(c)(3) status.

If you feel you fit with all of this checklist, you can submit the completed form and documentation to your local Costco Warehouse Manager.

Get the online application here

Contact details:

Store locator

https://www.costco.com

Other stores with Online Donation Request links

• Amazon
• Starbucks
• Walmart
• Whole Foods
• Lowes
• ALDI
• Best Buy
• Yeti Coolers
• Nike
• Dunkin Donuts
• Chipotle 

FAQs about Costco Donation Request

Who is eligible for a Costco donation?

To be eligible for a Costco donation, your organization must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on children, education, or health and human services. Costco supports organizations in the markets where they operate.

How do I apply for a Costco donation?

Apply for a Costco donation by reviewing their Charitable Contributions guidelines and then submit your request based on the appropriate level for your organization. For local causes, submit a Warehouse Donation request to your nearest Costco location. For larger organizations or broad-based causes, submit a Grant Application via their online application.

What types of donations does Costco provide?

Costco provides Warehouse Donations for local causes and Grant Applications for larger, broad-based causes. They support monetary requests only.

When can I apply for a Costco donation?

Costco accepts and reviews donation requests throughout the year on a rolling basis. Submit your request with at least 3 months lead time for time-sensitive events.

What is the review process for Costco donation requests?

Requests are reviewed based on the organization’s alignment with Costco’s Charitable Guidelines. Warehouse Donations are handled at the local warehouse level, while Grant Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks by the Community Relations Department.

How will I be notified about my donation request status?

You will be contacted via postcard, letter, phone call, or email within 4-6 weeks from your submission. Ensure that your contact information is accurate.

Is there a dollar limit for grant requests?

Typically, grant requests should not exceed 10% of the program’s overall budget. New applicants are advised to submit conservative requests.

Can I apply for more than one donation request per year?

Costco generally only considers one donation request per fiscal year (September – August) per organization.

Can we acknowledge our Costco donation publicly?

Costco does not seek public recognition for its donations. Contact them with any questions regarding proposed recognition or public statements.