Become a Partner with the Centene Foundation
Centene has always believed the best way to deliver health care is locally. Our uniquely local approach has been our greatest strength since the beginning.
We apply that same perspective to the work of the Centene Foundation, which furthers our company’s mission by partnering with organizations with deep community expertise and history. These partnerships focus on three distinct drivers of health: healthcare access, social services and education. Because we recognize that transforming the health of our communities requires more than one-time contributions, we seek partnerships that can grow over time and position our communities to thrive.
All our partners are charity organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or Section 170(b) of the Internal Revenue Code, and requests must meet the giving requirements and criteria for funding.
In keeping with Centene's Code of Conduct, the Centene Foundation does not fund organizations that discriminate based on age, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, family status or receipt of public assistance, military and veteran status or any other legally protected status under applicable law.
The Centene Foundation accepts charitable grant proposals during two grant cycles. If your organization fits our criteria and is interested in exploring a partnership, please be prepared to submit your partnership application during the next grant cycle period:
- March 1 – May 31
Requests for Event Sponsorships: You may submit your event sponsorship request by emailing us at Foundation@centene.com, or contact us with questions. You will only be notified if we move forward with your request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Centene Foundation focus its giving?
The core of our foundation is helping health-related organizations and causes. Centene will also consider projects or programs aligning with one or more of Centene Corporation’s focus areas:
- Education
- Healthcare Access (Including Social Determinants of Health)
- Social Services
Are there examples of activities the Centene Foundation won’t fund?
Only U.S.-based public charity organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or Section 170(b) of the Internal Revenue Code are eligible to receive funding. In general, we do not fund the following (please note this list is not exhaustive):
- Individual person(s) or families
- Political, labor and fraternal organizations
- For-profit publications or organizations seeking advertisements or promotional support
- Religious organizations (i.e., churches or organizations directly tied to a place of worship) as determined at the sole discretion of Centene Corporation
- Sponsorship of local groups/individuals to participate in regional, national or international competitions, conferences or events
- Youth sports activities
- Private foundations
Do you sponsor events?
Generally, we do not support one time or annual events as we are seeking partnerships that can grow over time.
Who can submit a request for contribution?
Representatives of U.S.-based public charity organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or Section 170(b) of the Internal Revenue Code that have the authority to submit an application.
Do you fund charities that are outside of the U.S.?
Generally, we do not support foreign charities.
My funding request does not fall within your areas of focus. Can I still apply?
All requests for funding from the Centene Foundation must meet the giving requirements and criteria for funding.
Which factors or criteria lead to the exclusion of organizations from receiving funding?
The Centene Foundation's funding aligns with our Code of Conduct, thereby excluding organizations that discriminate based on age, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, family status or receipt of public assistance, military and veteran status or any other legally protected status under applicable law from receiving funding. Also, those organizations appearing in exclusion checks through OFAC, OIG and SAM are ineligible for funding.
How do I apply for funding?
All requests for contribution from the Centene Foundation must be submitted through our online portal.
When can I submit a partnership proposal?
The Centene Foundation accepts charitable grant proposals only during a Spring Grant Cycle (March 1 – May 31) and a Fall Grant Cycle (Sept. 1 – Nov. 29). Requests for event sponsorships only can be submitted throughout the year by emailing Foundation@centene.com.
What documents will I need to include with my request for funding?
- Relevant program materials
- IRS Affirmation/Determination Letter
- Form 990
- W-9 Form (dated within 12 months of the current date)
How will I know you received my application?
All requests submitted through the online portal will generate an acknowledgement email to the contact information provided during the submission. Please check your spam folder if you don’t receive this acknowledgement. Add foundation@centene.com to your “safe senders” list to ensure you receive related email communications.
When will I be notified of a decision?
The evaluation process is dependent on the complexity and scope of the request for funding and may take up to six months for review. You will be notified of a decision once it has been made. You may also look up the status of your request in the online portal.
What reporting is required of organizations that receive funding?
For all charitable contributions, we require completion of an annual Outcomes Report. An assigned program manager will work with each non-profit to complete this requirement.
How can I contact a Centene Foundation representative?
The Centene Foundation strives to be as responsive as possible; however, we are unable to meet with every organization that applies for funding. Please email Foundation@centene.com if you have questions.