Becoming 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 pillars: healthcare, 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, 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.
Update to Centene Foundation's Grant Application Process
In 2026, the Centene Foundation will begin an invitation-only model for grant applications. This new approach allows us to concentrate resources on partnerships that align with our mission and reflect our strategic goals, fostering deeper collaborations and enhancing improved health outcomes for our communities. We are excited about this new direction in our grant-making efforts and appreciate your commitment to advancing community health.
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:
- Healthcare (Including Social Determinants of Health)
- Social Services
- Education
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.
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?
To apply for funding, you must:
- Receive an invitation from the Centene Foundation.
- Be a U.S.-based public charity organizations that is tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) or Section 170(b) of the Internal Revenue Code.
- Meet the giving requirements and criteria for Centene Foundation funding.
When can I submit a partnership proposal?
- Starting in 2026, we will discontinue our open application process. Instead, eligible organizations will be identified in partnership with our local health plans. Those organizations that align with our strategic goals will receive an invitation from the Centene Foundation to apply.
- Organizations interested in applying for a Centene Foundation grant are encouraged to reach out to their local Centene health plan. The Centene Foundation fosters national partnerships as well as collaborations with local organizations where Centene Corporation operates, which currently includes all 50 U.S. states. While reaching out doesn’t guarantee an invitation, it will help us retain your information for future consideration.
- Requests for event sponsorships can be submitted year-round by emailing Foundation@centene.com.
How will I know you received my application?
- Organizations that receive invitations will be provided with support throughout the application process, including informational sessions, resources, and opportunities for one-on-one consultations with our team.
When will I be notified of a decision?
- The timeline for the evaluation process varies based on the complexity and scope of your funding request, potentially taking up to six months to complete. You will receive notification of the decision once it is finalized.
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.