Community Engagement Funds
Community Engagement Funds (CEF) is a community grant program that empowers Target stores and distribution center leaders to make meaningful, localized giving decisions that meet the needs of the communities where our team members and guests live, work, and thrive. Before submitting an application, the organization must review the guidelines below.
Program guidelines
- Grant amounts range from $1,000 to $15,000.
- Organizations cannot apply for the same program in both grant cycles.
- Organizations are encouraged to apply during the cycle that best aligns with their program timing.
- A maximum of 10 applications is allowed per organization at any time.
| Application Window | Fund Decisioning | |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle 1 | April 6 - May 6, 2026 | July 2026 |
| Cycle 2 | August 3 - September 3, 2026 | November 2026 |
Organization eligibility
Eligible entities must be:
- 501(c)(3) public charity: An organization holding a current tax-exempt status and recognized as a public charity under Section 501(c)(3).
- School: All K-12 public or nonprofit private schools, charter schools, community/junior colleges, state/private colleges, or universities. Institutions must have a National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) number.
Selection and approval process
CEF will prioritize nonprofit programs and initiatives aligned to its focus areas:
- Thriving Families: Basic needs and youth development.
- Vibrant Neighborhoods: Community vitalization; Community and green spaces.
- Emerging Creative & Culture: Cultural partnerships and creative programming.
- Economic Opportunity: Workforce development.