CharityAuctionsToday identifies businesses that will donate to fundraisers as they have set aside funds specifically for donating your fundraiser.
In the world of business, giving back is more than just a noble act. It's a strategic move that can boost a company's image and foster customer loyalty.
This article explores businesses that donate to nonprofits, highlighting their impactful contributions. We'll delve into the various ways these companies support nonprofit causes, from financial donations to in-kind contributions.
We'll also spotlight specific businesses known for their philanthropic efforts. These companies set the bar high, demonstrating the positive effects of corporate giving.
Turn Corporate Goodwill Into Fundraising Momentum 💡
You now know which businesses might support your cause. Don’t stop there — launch an auction, engage sponsors, and turn corporate donations into active donor participation.
Launch Your Auction & Attract SponsorsWhether you're a business owner, a CSR manager, or a consumer, this article will provide valuable insights into the world of corporate philanthropy.
Why Businesses Donate to Their Communities
Most businesses that line the streets of your community donate to local nonprofits. After seeing a manager comp an entire Cub Scout troop lunch, my observant, verging on astute, second-grader asked, “Why did that man give the Cub Scouts free lunches?”
Not only is that a great question, but it is also testimony that businesses like to help their community. Many businesses believe it’s important to give back to their communities by donating to local nonprofits. This way, they can help to improve the lives of their customers, employees, and neighbors.
Donating also improves its image in the eyes of its customers, employees, and the community. This can lead to increased sales, improved employee morale, and a stronger reputation. It worked on my second-grader—she’s already talking up Chick-fil-A to anyone who’ll listen.
Customers are more likely to do business with companies or small businesses that they believe are giving back to the community. By donating to local nonprofits, businesses can attract and retain customers who are passionate about supporting their community. In the same light, employees are more likely to want to work for companies they believe are making a difference in their community—and they know in advance they’re not joining a team that doesn’t have any social responsibility.
Speaking about social responsibility, there are business owners and managers who donate to nonprofits for the tax deduction. Whatever the reason, donating to local nonprofits benefits the community, which helps stoke growth.
By giving back to the community, businesses that help fundraise can improve their image, attract and retain customers and employees, and gain tax benefits.
Examples of Businesses That Donate to Nonprofits
Many local businesses and national chains help fundraise within their communities. They help with fundraising efforts, volunteer their time, or donate items to nonprofits. What’s the catch? You have to ask.
Generally, they require only a written request on company letterhead or filling out forms to request a donation. They don’t always advertise this service, sometimes you have to do some sleuthing.
Good news, we did the hard work for you. Here is a list of businesses that help fundraise.
Retail and Big Box Stores that Donate
Nearly every retailer or corporation has a giving program to help fundraise. They may offer matching gifts, community grants, donation requests, and even volunteers. Many local vendors will give in-kind donations, swipe cards, or cash donations.
Below is a short list of some of the most popular companies that will donate to your fundraiser. Have a company in mind? Just do a Google search for the name of the brand and donations, such as: "Nike Community Donations" or "Nike Giving Program."
Restaurants
Restaurants offer many ways to help raise money. Ask about fundraising nights, gift card donations, Giving Tuesdays, or in-kind donations. Need an event catered? Just ask—have your 501-C3 info in hand. If you don't have that, check anyway, many will still donate platters or other items for your event.
Grocery Stores and Food and Beverage Donations
Other businesses that help fundraise give food or sponsor the event. Grocery stores will often donate food for your event. They also give in-kind donations, swipe cards, cash donations, and gift cards. You can request larger funds from the national site, or your local store will give smaller donations at the service desk. Food or beverage companies will often donate products or sponsor your entire event.
Museums, Entertainment, and Hospitality
Hospitality and entertainment venues offer free passes, free memberships, event space, fundraising nights, overnight stays, and rental cars for your event. Just ask!
Direct Sales Companies
Think Avon and other catalog sales companies. They often offer in-kind donations or portions of campaign sales. In fact, they are pro-fundraisers as it provides exposure for their companies.
Sports Teams
Offer free tickets, memorabilia, free food, and drink, or opportunities to work concessions.
National Basketball Association
Need help asking for help? Use our Donation Request Letter Template.
The Importance of Corporate Philanthropy
Corporate philanthropy plays a key role in building a positive brand image. Businesses that actively give back to their communities foster goodwill.
This goodwill translates into increased customer trust and loyalty over time. Consumers tend to support companies that demonstrate commitment to social responsibility.
Furthermore, corporate philanthropy strengthens communities by addressing local needs. Businesses that donate to nonprofit organizations contribute to societal well-being.
Being involved in charitable causes also enhances employee engagement. When businesses support meaningful causes, employees feel proud and motivated.
How Businesses Benefit from Donating to Nonprofits
Donating to nonprofits offers several advantages to businesses. One significant benefit is the potential for tax deductions. These deductions can provide financial relief and improve profitability.
Additionally, being associated with charitable causes boosts a company’s public image. This enhanced reputation can attract new customers and retain existing ones.
Philanthropic efforts also create opportunities for positive media coverage. Stories about companies that give back often resonate with the public, enhancing brand visibility.
Furthermore, partnerships with nonprofits can lead to long-term business growth. By aligning their values with social causes, businesses create meaningful connections with their communities.
Different Ways Businesses Can Support Nonprofits
Businesses can contribute to nonprofits in several ways beyond monetary donations. Financial support remains critical, but in-kind contributions are equally valuable.
Donating products or services can provide immediate benefits to nonprofits. This method often involves less financial strain for some businesses.
Volunteering time and expertise also greatly supports nonprofit goals. Employees can offer unique skills, providing nonprofits with invaluable resources.
Sponsoring events and fundraisers like silent auctions presents another great option. This involvement boosts the visibility of both businesses and nonprofits.
The Role of Consumers in Promoting Corporate Giving
Consumers have a powerful influence on corporate philanthropy. Their preferences can drive businesses to support nonprofit causes.
Shoppers increasingly seek stores that donate to meaningful projects. They prefer to spend money on brands reflecting their values.
Social media amplifies consumer voices, praising or criticizing corporate actions. Engaged consumers can spur companies to more charitable activities.
Ultimately, customers reward businesses that align with their beliefs. This support encourages ongoing corporate donations to nonprofit organizations.
Tips for Nonprofits Seeking Corporate Donations
Establishing strong partnerships with businesses requires strategy. Nonprofits should clearly communicate their mission and impact.
Personalized pitches resonate better with companies. Tailoring requests to align with corporate values increases success rates.
Demonstrating accountability is crucial. Sharing transparent results builds trust and fosters long-term relationships.
Lastly, engagement is key. Inviting employees to volunteer or witness impact firsthand strengthens ties and commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which types of businesses commonly support fundraisers?
Great partners include restaurants (give-back nights), retailers (percent-of-sales days), gyms and studios, coffee shops, breweries, entertainment venues, print shops, car washes, salons, and local service providers. Corporate employers with CSR programs are also strong allies.
How do restaurant “give-back” nights work?
You promote a specific date; supporters dine in or order takeout and mention your cause. The restaurant donates a set percentage (often 10–25%) of tracked sales from those guests.
What retail partnerships drive the most revenue quickly?
Percent-of-sales days, round-up at checkout, limited-time product tie-ins, and pop-up shops hosted in-store. Pair them with social posts and email to boost foot traffic and basket size.
Which service businesses make good partners for auctions and raffles?
Fitness classes, golf courses, spas, salons, photographers, tutors, mechanics, and home services can donate gift cards or experiences that perform well in auctions and drawings.
How can employers and corporations help fundraise beyond sponsorships?
Look for employee matching gifts, volunteer grants, payroll giving, workplace campaigns, and team-based challenges. Ask for an internal champion to share your campaign on company channels.
What’s the best way to approach a business about partnering with us?
Lead with alignment and outcomes: who you serve, the specific need, expected reach, and how you’ll promote them. Offer 2–3 clear options with dates, effort required, and benefits.
What benefits should we offer businesses in return for support?
Logo placement, social shout-outs, email mentions, event signage, emcee thanks, press mentions, staff volunteer opportunities, and post-event recap with impact metrics and photos.
How do we handle in-kind donations from local businesses effectively?
Provide a simple form and clear deadlines, list fair market value on receipts, bundle small gifts into themed packages, and recognize donors the same way you would cash sponsors.
How should we track sales and report results back to partners?
Agree on a tracking method upfront (codes, flyers, POS tags, unique links). After the event, send totals raised, estimated impressions, photos, and a thank-you with next-step options.
Do we need any formal agreements or compliance steps with businesses?
Create a simple written agreement covering dates, promotion language, donation percentage, and remittance timing. Check local regulations for charitable sales promotions and required disclosures.
How do we work with franchises or multi-location businesses efficiently?
Start with the local manager, then request regional approval for additional stores. Standardize assets (posters, QR codes, social captions) and provide a one-pager to make replication easy.
How do we turn one-time fundraisers into long-term business partnerships?
Report impact quickly, recognize publicly, invite feedback, and propose a simple annual calendar (e.g., spring give-back, summer auction item, year-end match). Make renewal the default.
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