Last-Chance Funding: Grants Your Nonprofit Can Still Apply for in December 2025

As the year winds to a close and 2026 approaches, many nonprofits find themselves juggling year-end giving, reporting, budgets, and program wrap-ups. But December doesn’t have to be only about closing — it can also be about seizing last-minute grant opportunities before the new year begins.

Here’s a curated list of grants and funding opportunities with open or December 2025 deadlines — plus some tips to get your applications in on time.

Tips for a Successful December Grant Push

• Act quickly — December deadlines close fast. Gather required documents early (501(c)(3) letter, current budget, program description, board list, financials).

• Prioritize low-lift grants — Programs like Walmart Spark Good or Kars4Kids often ask for short applications — ideal when time is limited.

• Leverage your 2025 data — Use recent outcomes, participant numbers, impact stats, photos, and testimonials to show timely results.

• Align programs with funder priorities — Food security, basic needs, youth services, community support, and emergency relief are often in high demand at year-end.

• Bundle several grant applications into a “year-end sprint.” Having a list of 3–5 potential grants helps you prioritize and track deadlines.

• Use grant-writing support if available — A clear, polished proposal shortens the time to submit and increases your chance of success.

Why December Grant Applications Make Sense (Especially for 2026 Planning)

1. Less competition — many nonprofits pause during holidays. Applying when others are resting can give you a competitive edge.

2. You start 2026 with momentum. Early wins early in the new year set a tone of confidence and a stable funding base.

3. It helps you close funding gaps before winter. For nonprofits running seasonal programs (food banks, winter shelters, education, community outreach), last-minute grants can bridge critical needs.

4. Shows funders you are proactive and organized. A well-timed application with clear impact data demonstrates seriousness and reliability — attractive traits for repeat funding.

What to Do Next (Your December Grant Action Plan)

1. Review the grants listed above and confirm they fit your mission.

2. Gather essential documents: 501(c)(3) letter, board list, financials, program description, 2025 impact data.

3. Draft one or two compelling proposals — use your recent outcomes to tell a strong story.

4. Submit before the deadlines.

5. Track submissions and set reminders for follow-up or possible re-application.

December 2025 Grant Calendar

12 Grants Still Open for Applications

1. Walmart Spark Good Local Grants

Amount: $250–$5,000
Deadline: December 31, 2025
📎 Apply: https://www.walmart.com/nonprofits
Supports: Community programs, basic needs, youth, health, food access, environment.

2. Kars4Kids Small Grant Program

Amount: $500–$2,000
Deadline: Rolling
📎 Apply: https://www.kars4kidsgrants.org/
Supports: Youth development, mentoring, education, community enrichment.

3. Wegmans Community Giving

Amount: ~$300–$1,000 for local requests
Deadline: Rolling
📎 Apply: https://www.wegmans.com/values-in-action/community-giving
Supports: Food security, health, youth, workforce development.

4. 4imprint One-by-One Grant

Amount: $500 in promotional products
Deadline: Quarterly (next closes Dec 31, 2025)
📎 Apply: https://onebyone.4imprint.com/
Supports: Any 501(c)(3), school, or registered charity.

5. Costco Charitable Contributions

Amount: Typically $250–$1,000 (local requests)
Deadline: Rolling
📎 Apply: https://www.costco.com/charitable-giving.html
Supports: Human services, children, education, health and safety.

6. Whole Foods Community Giving

Amount: $300–$2,000
Deadline: Rolling
📎 Info: https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/company-info/donate
Supports: Food justice, youth wellness, environment, community support.

7. The Awesome Foundation

Amount: $1,000 microgrants
Deadline: Monthly (December included)
📎 Apply: https://www.awesomefoundation.org/
Supports: Creative, innovative community projects.
(No nonprofit status required.)

8. Target Local Store Donations

Amount: Varies
Deadline: Rolling
📎 Info: https://corporate.target.com/sustainability-esg/community-engagement
Supports: Community support, youth programs, wellness, local needs.

9. RGA Foundation

Amount: $1,000–$25,000
Deadline: Rolling
📎 Info: https://www.rgare.com/about-us/corporate-responsibility/rga-foundation
Supports: Health, education, economic stability, youth.

10. The Standard

Amount: $5,000 – $20,000
Deadline: Rolling nomination cycles through Q4
📎 Info:https://www.standard.com/get-to-know-standard/community-impact/apply-funds
Supports: Belonging, community connection, youth, inclusion.

How to Use This December Grant List

✔ Prioritize quick, high-approval grants

Walmart
Kars4Kids
4imprint
Wegmans
Awesome Foundation

✔ Apply early in the month

Many reviewers close offices after December 20.

✔ Add to 2026 Calendar

Most reopen in January–March.

Final Thought

Don’t let the end of the calendar year slow you down. December can be a powerful month for funding if you act strategically. With a combination of last-minute grant applications, strong data, clear mission alignment, and timely effort — you can finish 2025 with momentum and start 2026 on a firm foundation.

If your nonprofit needs assistance with Grant Writing into 2026 CONTACT US TODAY.