How Do I Get Donations From Companies?
Establishing and running a successful nonprofit organization requires a steady source of funding and supplies. Nonprofits have two basic choices in getting these necessities: wait for donations to come or go out and get donations. Being proactive by seeking donations from businesses can be an effective way to get immediate funds and supplies and build a relationship that will continue to bring in funds in the future.
Target the Right Companies
Make a list of companies that should be targeted for donations. Local companies tend to want to support local charities. You should also seek out companies that are in a similar activity; for example, pet stores often help animal shelters. If you are looking for supply donations then target large companies for the supplies you need. Larger companies tend to have extra inventory to give away. By targeting the right companies to ask for donations, you can better manage your time and have more success in getting donations.
Contact Person
Within each company, whether it is a retail store or a corporation, there is someone in charge of donations. Find out who that person is and make her your primary contact person. You can find out by simply asking anyone in the company who is in charge of donations. When you first contact this person, whether by letter or in person, have information about your organization ready to give them. This should include your organization's mission and what the funds or supplies will be used for. If the funds will be going to staff salaries, then be prepared to clearly explain how the staff contributes to the goals of the organization.
Presentations
Offer to make a free presentation about your organization to the company you would like donations from. This works best for general businesses that have expressed interest in your organization, but have committed their donations to other charities. If possible, offer to do the presentation for the entire staff at a day and time of the company's choosing. This way you will be able to highlight your nonprofit not just to the business managers but to the entire staff. This is a great way to get new individual donations and possibly even volunteers.
Check in with Donors
Once a company has given you a donation, continue to nurture the relationship. Companies tend to continue to donate to the same organizations year after year. After the donation, immediately send a thank-you letter, if possible detailing how the donation was or will be used. Throughout the year periodically send updates on your organization through newsletters or email. Be careful, however, not to appear to be spamming the company. You want to send friendly updates, so the company doesn't forget about your organization. You do not want to appear greedy or simply annoying.
Be Friendly and Professional
At all times, you should be friendly and professional when you are seeking donations. From contact letters and emails to in-person solicitations, you want to present the best of your organization. This includes using proper grammar and spelling in emails, dressing professionally and putting on your best smile, even when being turned down. The less professional and friendly you are, the less likely you are to receive donations.
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