top of page

Utilizing Matching Gifts and Corporate Partnerships: Part VI in Our Year-End Fundraising Series

Writer's picture: Tracy V. AllenTracy V. Allen

Engaging donors effectively is the heart of any successful fundraising campaign. It’s not just about asking for money; it’s about building relationships, expressing gratitude, and showing donors the impact of their contributions. This part of our series will guide you through the necessary steps to prepare, segment, and communicate with your donors across multiple channels to maximize your year-end fundraising efforts.


 

Table of Content

 

Introduction

Imagine you are the director of a nonprofit organization that has just received a matching gift offer from a major corporation. This means that every dollar donated by your supporters will be doubled up to a certain amount.


The excitement of this opportunity can be felt throughout the organization, but to make the most of it, you need a strategic plan. According to Double the Donation, 65% of Fortune 500 companies offer matching gift programs, yet $4-7 billion in matching gift funds go unclaimed each year. By effectively utilizing matching gifts and corporate partnerships, you can significantly boost your year-end fundraising efforts.


Leveraging matching gifts and corporate partnerships can amplify the impact of donations and enhance donor engagement. This detailed guide will help you prepare, educate donors, build authentic relationships, and implement effective strategies to maximize your year-end fundraising success.


I. Preparation for Year-End Matching Gifts and Corporate Partnerships

Effective preparation is the foundation of a successful year-end campaign. By reviewing current partnerships, analyzing previous results, setting specific goals, and creating a detailed timeline, you can ensure a well-organized and impactful campaign.

  • Review Current Partnerships and Matching Gift Programs

    • Start by reviewing your existing corporate partnerships and matching gift programs. Identify which companies offer matching gifts and what their requirements are. This will help you understand the potential scope of your campaign and identify key opportunities.

      • Example: Your organization partners with three major corporations that offer matching gift programs. Review the specifics of each program, including matching ratios, submission deadlines, and any restrictions or requirements.

  • Analyze Previous Year-End Results

    • Look at the data from your previous year-end campaigns to understand what worked well and what didn’t. Analyze donation patterns, matching gift claims, and corporate partner engagement. This analysis will provide valuable insights for planning your current campaign.

      • Example: Last year, you noticed a significant increase in donations during the last two weeks of December, with many donors taking advantage of matching gifts. However, some donors missed the matching gift deadline because they were unaware of the process.

  • Set Specific Year-End Goals

    • Define clear, measurable goals for your year-end campaign. These goals should be ambitious yet achievable and aligned with your organization’s mission. Set targets for total donations, number of matching gifts, and corporate partnerships.

      • Example: Set a goal to raise $200,000 by the end of the year, with $50,000 coming from matching gifts and securing three new corporate partnerships.

  • Create a Timeline for Year-End Activities

    • Develop a detailed timeline that outlines key activities, deadlines, and milestones for your year-end campaign. This timeline should include dates for donor communications, corporate partnership meetings, and matching gift promotions.

      • Example: Plan to send out the first year-end appeal letter in mid-November, followed by a series of email reminders, social media posts, and phone calls leading up to December 31st.


Utilizing Matching Gifts and Corporate Partnerships

II. Donor Education on Year-End Matching Gifts

Educating donors about matching gifts is crucial for maximizing their participation. By creating specific educational materials and incorporating matching gift information into your year-end campaigns, you can increase awareness and engagement.

  • Create Year-End Specific Educational Materials

    • Infographics on Tax Benefits of Year-End Giving: Design infographics that clearly explain the tax benefits of making charitable donations before the end of the year. Use visual elements to make the information easily digestible and engaging.

      • Example: An infographic that highlights the potential tax savings from year-end donations, showing how donors can reduce their taxable income and benefit from tax deductions.

    • Videos Explaining the Amplified Impact of Matching Gifts: Produce short, engaging videos that demonstrate how matching gifts can double or even triple the impact of donations. Use real-life examples and testimonials from beneficiaries to illustrate the difference these gifts make.

      • Example: A video featuring a donor who made a $500 contribution, which was matched by their employer, resulting in $1,000 being used to fund a critical project.

  • Incorporate Matching Gift Information in Year-End Campaigns

    • Holiday Appeal Letters: Include information about matching gifts in your holiday appeal letters. Explain how donors can check if their employer offers a matching gift program and the steps to submit a match request.

      • Example: A holiday letter that highlights the importance of matching gifts and provides a link to a matching gift database where donors can search for their employer’s program.

    • Giving Tuesday Promotions: Use Giving Tuesday as an opportunity to promote matching gifts. Highlight the availability of matching funds and encourage donors to take advantage of this limited-time opportunity.

      • Example: A Giving Tuesday email campaign that announces a special matching gift challenge, where every donation made on that day will be matched dollar-for-dollar.

    • End-of-Year Email Series: Develop an email series leading up to the year-end that emphasizes the importance of matching gifts. Provide reminders, deadlines, and instructions on how to submit matching gift requests.

      • Example: An email series that starts in early December with a general announcement about matching gifts, followed by weekly reminders and a final call-to-action as the year-end deadline approaches.

  • Highlight Time-Sensitive Nature of Year-End Matching

    • Emphasize the urgency of making donations before the year-end to take advantage of matching gift opportunities. Use countdowns, deadlines, and urgent calls-to-action to motivate donors to act quickly.

      • Example: A series of social media posts that count down the days until the year-end, with each post reminding donors to submit their matching gift requests before the deadline.


III. Authentic Relationship Building with Donors for Year-End Giving

Building authentic relationships with donors is key to successful year-end fundraising. Personalized communication, impact reports, and gratitude events can deepen donor engagement and encourage year-end giving.

  • Personalized Year-End Communication

    • Recap of Donor's Impact Throughout the Year: Send personalized messages that recap the donor’s contributions and the impact they have had throughout the year. Highlight specific projects or initiatives they have supported.

      • Example: An email to a major donor that details how their contributions funded a new community center, including photos and testimonials from beneficiaries.

    • Invitation to Make a Final, Matched Gift: Encourage donors to make a final gift before the year-end that will be matched by a corporate partner. Personalize the invitation to emphasize the increased impact of their donation.

      • Example: A personalized letter to a regular donor, inviting them to make a year-end donation that will be doubled by a matching gift program, with a special thank-you message from the CEO.

  • Year-in-Review Impact Reports

    • Create comprehensive impact reports that summarize your organization’s achievements and the role of donor support. Use these reports to show the tangible results of donations and build trust with your donors.

      • Example: A year-in-review report that includes key metrics, success stories, and financial summaries, highlighting how donor contributions have made a difference.

  • Holiday-Themed Gratitude Events

    • Host virtual or in-person events to thank your donors and celebrate their contributions. These events can include presentations, testimonials, and interactive activities that engage donors and show appreciation.

      • Example: A virtual holiday party with a live presentation from the executive director, videos of beneficiaries sharing their stories, and a Q&A session where donors can interact with staff.

  • Personal Calls from Leadership to Major Donors

    • Have senior leaders personally call major donors to thank them for their support and discuss their impact. These calls can strengthen relationships and encourage continued giving.

      • Example: The board chair calls a major donor to express gratitude for their generous contributions, share updates on key projects, and invite them to an exclusive event.

  • New Year's Resolution-Themed Engagement for Following Year

    • Use the concept of New Year’s resolutions to engage donors and encourage continued support. Ask donors to make a resolution to support your organization in the coming year and highlight specific ways they can get involved.

      • Example: An email campaign that encourages donors to set a New Year’s resolution to volunteer, attend events, or make regular donations, with a focus on the positive impact they can have in the new year.


Utilizing Matching Gifts and Corporate Partnerships

IV. Leveraging Existing Corporate Partnerships for Year-End Campaigns

Maximizing existing corporate partnerships can significantly boost your year-end fundraising efforts. Review current agreements, brainstorm collaboration ideas, and plan joint campaigns with your corporate partners.

  • Review Current Partnership Agreements

    • Review the terms and conditions of your existing corporate partnerships. Understand the scope of each partnership, including any matching gift programs, sponsorship opportunities, and co-branded campaigns.

      • Example: Review the partnership agreement with a major corporation that includes a matching gift program, event sponsorship, and employee volunteer opportunities.

  • Brainstorm Year-End Specific Collaboration Ideas

    • Work with your corporate partners to brainstorm ideas for year-end collaborations. Focus on initiatives that align with both your organization’s mission and the company’s corporate social responsibility goals.

      • Example: Collaborate with a corporate partner to create a holiday-themed fundraising campaign that includes matching gifts, employee engagement activities, and joint marketing efforts.

  • Schedule Planning Meetings with Corporate Partners

    • Hold planning meetings with your corporate partners to discuss year-end initiatives and finalize details. Ensure both parties are aligned on goals, timelines, and responsibilities.

      • Example: Schedule a meeting with the CSR team of a corporate partner to discuss the year-end campaign, outline key activities, and assign tasks to ensure smooth execution.

  • Co-create Year-End Campaigns or Challenges

    • Work with your corporate partners to co-create year-end campaigns or challenges that engage both their employees and your donors. These initiatives can increase visibility and drive donations.

      • Example: Develop a “12 Days of Giving” campaign with a corporate partner, where each day features a different giving challenge, matched donations, and employee volunteer activities.



V. Seeking New Corporate Partners for Year-End Initiatives

Identifying and securing new corporate partners can provide additional support and resources for your year-end campaign. Focus on companies with strong Q4 performance and holiday giving programs.

  • Identify Companies with Strong Q4 Performance

    • Research companies that typically perform well in the fourth quarter and have a history of charitable giving. These companies may be more willing to partner on year-end initiatives.

      • Example: Identify a retail company that reports high sales during the holiday season and has a strong corporate giving program, making them a potential partner for your year-end campaign.

  • Research Corporate Holiday Giving Programs

    • Look for companies that have established holiday giving programs or special year-end initiatives. These programs can provide opportunities for collaboration and increased support.

      • Example: Research a technology company that runs a “Season of Giving” campaign every December, where they match employee donations and support local nonprofits.

  • Develop Year-End Specific Partnership Proposals

    • Create tailored partnership proposals that highlight the benefits of collaborating on year-end initiatives. Include specific ideas for joint campaigns, matching gift opportunities, and employee engagement.

      • Example: Develop a proposal for a financial services company, outlining a year-end matching gift campaign, co-branded marketing materials, and employee volunteer opportunities.

  • Leverage Board Connections for Introductions

    • Utilize the connections of your board members to introduce your organization to potential corporate partners. Personal introductions can facilitate new partnerships and build credibility.

      • Example: A board member introduces your organization to an executive at a major corporation, leading to a meeting where you present your year-end partnership proposal.


VI. Designing Year-End Focused Corporate Partnerships

Designing creative and impactful year-end partnerships can enhance donor engagement and increase contributions. Consider holiday-themed campaigns, employee challenges, and volunteer opportunities.

  • Holiday-Themed Cause Marketing Campaigns

    • Partner with companies to create holiday-themed cause marketing campaigns. These campaigns can include co-branded promotions, product sales with a percentage donated to your organization, and joint social media initiatives.

      • Example: Partner with a retail company to create a holiday-themed product line, with a portion of sales supporting your organization’s programs. Promote the campaign through joint marketing efforts and in-store displays.

  • Employee Gift Matching Challenges

    • Encourage corporate partners to implement employee gift matching challenges. These challenges can motivate employees to give and increase the overall impact of donations.

      • Example: A corporate partner launches an employee gift matching challenge, where they match every employee donation made during December up to a certain amount. They promote the challenge through internal communications and employee events.

  • "12 Days of Giving" Corporate Sponsorship

    • Create a “12 Days of Giving” campaign with a corporate sponsor. Each day features a different giving challenge, matched donations, or special events that engage both employees and donors.

      • Example: A corporate partner sponsors a “12 Days of Giving” campaign, where each day includes a different activity such as a donation match, volunteer event, or fundraising challenge. The campaign is promoted through social media and email newsletters.

  • New Year's-Themed Volunteer Opportunities

    • Organize New Year’s-themed volunteer opportunities with corporate partners. These events can engage employees and demonstrate the company’s commitment to social responsibility.

      • Example: Partner with a corporation to organize a New Year’s Day volunteer event, where employees and their families participate in community service projects. The event is promoted internally and through your organization’s channels.

  • Year-End Corporate Grant Programs

    • Apply for corporate grant programs that provide year-end funding to nonprofits. These grants can support specific projects, operational costs, or matching gift initiatives.

      • Example: Apply for a year-end grant from a foundation affiliated with a major corporation. The grant application highlights your organization’s accomplishments and plans for the upcoming year, emphasizing the impact of additional funding.


VII. Implementing Year-End Matching Gift Strategies

Implementing effective matching gift strategies can significantly boost your year-end donations. Create urgency, develop compelling campaigns, and provide support for donors to maximize matching gift participation.

  • Create Urgency Around Year-End Matching Deadlines

    • Emphasize the limited-time nature of matching gift opportunities to create urgency. Use countdowns, deadlines, and urgent calls-to-action to motivate donors to act quickly.

      • Example: An email campaign that highlights the year-end deadline for matching gifts, with a countdown timer and a clear call-to-action to submit matching gift requests before the deadline.

  • Develop a "Double Your Impact" Campaign

    • Create a campaign that focuses on the amplified impact of matching gifts. Use compelling messaging and visuals to show donors how their contributions can be doubled or tripled.

      • Example: A social media campaign titled “Double Your Impact,” featuring stories of beneficiaries and visuals that illustrate how donations are matched by corporate partners. Each post includes a link to the donation page and instructions on how to submit a matching gift request.

  • Highlight Tax Benefits of Year-End Matched Giving

    • Remind donors of the tax benefits of making charitable donations before the end of the year, especially when their gifts are matched. This can be a strong motivator for year-end giving.

      • Example: A blog post that explains the tax benefits of year-end giving, including how matching gifts can maximize the financial impact for both the donor and the organization. The post includes examples and links to additional resources.

  • Provide Extra Support for Last-Minute Matching Gift Submissions

    • Offer additional support to help donors submit matching gift requests before the year-end deadline. This can include step-by-step instructions, FAQs, and direct assistance from your team.

      • Example: A dedicated section on your website with detailed instructions on how to submit matching gift requests, a list of common employer programs, and contact information for donors who need assistance.


VIII. Authentic Communication Strategies for Year-End

Authentic and transparent communication can build trust and deepen donor relationships. Share personal stories, create video messages, facilitate donor-to-beneficiary connections, and communicate openly about your year-end goals.

  • Share Personal Stories of Yearly Impact

    • Share personal stories that highlight the impact of your organization’s work throughout the year. These stories can create an emotional connection and demonstrate the importance of donor support.

      • Example: A social media series featuring stories of individuals who have benefited from your programs, with photos and quotes that illustrate the difference donations have made in their lives.

  • Create a Year-End Video Message from CEO/Executive Director

    • Produce a video message from your CEO or executive director that recaps the year’s achievements, thanks donors for their support, and outlines year-end goals. A personal message from leadership can enhance credibility and engagement.

      • Example: A video featuring the executive director speaking directly to donors, sharing highlights from the past year, expressing gratitude, and encouraging continued support through year-end donations.

  • Facilitate Donor-to-Beneficiary Connections

    • Create opportunities for donors to connect with beneficiaries of your organization’s work. This can include virtual meetings, letter exchanges, or video messages that show the real-life impact of donations.

      • Example: Organize a virtual event where donors can hear directly from beneficiaries about how their lives have been changed by the organization’s programs. Include a Q&A session to facilitate interaction.

  • Transparent Communication About Year-End Goals and Progress

    • Communicate openly about your year-end fundraising goals and progress. Share regular updates and be transparent about how donations are being used and the impact they are making.

      • Example: Regular email updates that provide detailed information about the current fundraising total, the specific goals for the year-end campaign, and examples of how funds are being allocated to different programs.


IX. Leveraging Technology for Year-End Giving

Leveraging technology can streamline the donation process, enhance engagement, and increase the effectiveness of your year-end campaign. Optimize online donation forms, use countdown timers, create a dedicated landing page, and implement peer-to-peer fundraising tools.

  • Optimize Online Donation Forms for Matching Gifts

    • Ensure your online donation forms are optimized for matching gifts. Include fields for donors to indicate if their employer offers a matching gift program and provide information on how to submit a matching gift request.

      • Example: An online donation form that includes a checkbox for matching gifts, a search tool to find employer matching programs, and a link to a matching gift submission guide.

  • Use Countdown Timers in Email Campaigns

    • Incorporate countdown timers in your email campaigns to create a sense of urgency. Countdown timers can visually emphasize the limited time remaining to make a year-end donation and take advantage of matching gifts.

      • Example: An email with a countdown timer showing the number of days left until the year-end, encouraging donors to make a matched donation before the deadline.

  • Create a Dedicated Year-End Matching Gift Landing Page

    • Design a landing page specifically for year-end matching gifts. Include compelling content, clear instructions, and a prominent call-to-action to donate and submit matching gift requests.

      • Example: A year-end landing page that features stories of impact, an explanation of the matching gift process, a list of participating employers, and a large donation button.

  • Implement Social Media Tools for Peer-to-Peer Fundraising

    • Use social media tools to facilitate peer-to-peer fundraising. Encourage supporters to create their own fundraising pages and share them with their networks to increase reach and donations.

      • Example: A campaign where donors can create personal fundraising pages on your website, set their own fundraising goals, and share their pages on social media to encourage friends and family to donate.


X. Nurturing Relationships During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is a perfect time to nurture relationships with your donors and show appreciation for their support. Send personalized greetings, host virtual events, provide exclusive content, and offer one-on-one briefings with leadership.

  • Send Personalized Holiday Greetings

    • Send personalized holiday greetings to your donors to show appreciation and keep your organization top-of-mind. Personalized messages can make donors feel valued and connected to your cause.

      • Example: A handwritten holiday card sent to major donors, with a personal message of thanks and well wishes from the executive director.

  • Host Virtual Year-End Appreciation Events

    • Host virtual events to thank your donors and celebrate their contributions. These events can include presentations, testimonials, and interactive activities that engage donors and show appreciation.

      • Example: A virtual holiday party with a live presentation from the executive director, videos of beneficiaries sharing their stories, and a Q&A session where donors can interact with staff.

  • Provide Exclusive "Year in Review" Content to Major Donors and Partners

    • Share exclusive “year in review” content with your major donors and corporate partners. This content can include detailed impact reports, behind-the-scenes videos, and previews of upcoming projects.

      • Example: An exclusive email to major donors that includes a video recap of the year’s achievements, a detailed impact report, and an invitation to a special event in the new year.

  • Offer One-on-One Impact Briefings with Organizational Leadership

    • Provide one-on-one briefings with organizational leadership for your major donors. These briefings can offer a deeper understanding of your organization’s work and the impact of their support.

      • Example: The executive director schedules one-on-one meetings with top donors to discuss the year’s accomplishments, share future plans, and thank them personally for their support.


XI. Measuring and Communicating Year-End Impact

Measuring the impact of your year-end campaign and communicating the results to your donors can build trust and encourage ongoing support. Use real-time tracking, regular updates, and comparative analysis to showcase your success.

  • Real-Time Tracking of Year-End Campaign Progress

    • Track the progress of your year-end campaign in real-time. Use online tools and dashboards to monitor donations, matching gifts, and engagement metrics.

      • Example: An online dashboard that displays real-time data on the total amount raised, the number of matching gifts submitted, and the progress towards your fundraising goal.

  • Daily or Weekly Impact Updates During Campaign

    • Provide regular updates on the impact of your year-end campaign. Share these updates through email, social media, and your website to keep donors informed and engaged.

      • Example: A weekly email during December that highlights the current fundraising total, shares a new beneficiary story, and encourages donors to take advantage of matching gift opportunities.

  • Year-Over-Year Comparison of Matching Gift Impact

    • Compare the impact of matching gifts from year to year. Use this analysis to highlight growth, identify trends, and demonstrate the increasing importance of matching gifts to your overall fundraising success.

      • Example: A report that compares the number of matching gifts and total matched donations from the current year with previous years, showing the growth and impact of these programs.

  • Showcase Stories of Holiday-Season Impact

    • Share stories that highlight the impact of donations during the holiday season. These stories can illustrate the immediate difference that year-end contributions make.

      • Example: A social media series featuring stories of individuals and families who received support during the holiday season, with photos and quotes that show the positive impact of donations.


Utilizing Matching Gifts and Corporate Partnerships

XII. Expressing Year-End Gratitude

Expressing gratitude to your donors is essential for building lasting relationships. Use personalized thank-yous, special recognition, impact certificates, and themed gratitude messages to show your appreciation.

  • Immediate, Personalized Thank-Yous for Year-End Gifts

    • Send immediate, personalized thank-you messages for year-end gifts. This shows donors that their contributions are valued and appreciated.

      • Example: An automated thank-you email sent within minutes of receiving an online donation, with a personalized message of gratitude and a receipt for tax purposes.

  • Special Recognition for Donors Who Utilized Matching Gifts

    • Recognize donors who took advantage of matching gift programs. This special recognition can encourage other donors to participate and highlight the importance of matching gifts.

      • Example: A thank-you email that specifically acknowledges donors who submitted matching gift requests, with a message of appreciation and an update on the impact of their matched donations.

  • Year-End Impact Certificates for Corporate Partners

    • Create impact certificates for your corporate partners that highlight their contributions and the difference they have made. These certificates can be displayed in their offices and used for internal recognition.

      • Example: A framed certificate presented to a corporate partner that outlines the total amount donated through matching gifts, the number of employees who participated, and the specific projects funded by their support.

  • New Year's-Themed Gratitude Messages

    • Send New Year’s-themed gratitude messages to thank donors for their support and encourage continued engagement in the coming year. Use these messages to celebrate past achievements and share future plans.

      • Example: A New Year’s card sent to donors that includes a message of thanks for their contributions over the past year, a recap of key accomplishments, and an invitation to stay involved in the new year.


XIII. Post Year-End Analysis and Planning

After the year-end campaign, conduct a comprehensive review to evaluate performance and identify successful strategies. Gather feedback, analyze data, and begin planning for the next year’s campaign.

  • Comprehensive Review of Year-End Campaign Performance

    • Conduct a detailed review of your year-end campaign performance. Analyze donation data, matching gift participation, corporate partner engagement, and overall impact.

      • Example: A report that summarizes the total amount raised, the number of matching gifts submitted, the performance of different communication channels, and the overall success of the campaign.

  • Gather Feedback from Donors and Corporate Partners

    • Collect feedback from donors and corporate partners to understand their experiences and identify areas for improvement. Use surveys, interviews, and focus groups to gather insights.

      • Example: A post-campaign survey sent to donors and corporate partners that asks for their feedback on the campaign, the communication strategies used, and any suggestions for future improvements.

  • Identify Successful Strategies to Carry Forward

    • Identify the most successful strategies and tactics from your year-end campaign. Use these insights to inform your planning for future campaigns and ongoing donor engagement.

      • Example: An analysis that highlights the most effective communication channels, the most engaging content, and the most responsive donor segments, with recommendations for future campaigns.

  • Begin Planning for Next Year's Campaign

    • Start planning for the next year’s campaign based on your analysis and feedback. Set preliminary goals, outline key strategies, and begin identifying potential corporate partners.

      • Example: An initial planning meeting with your fundraising team to discuss the lessons learned from the past campaign, set preliminary goals for the next year, and brainstorm new ideas and strategies.


XIV. Maintaining Momentum into the New Year

Maintaining momentum into the new year is crucial for ongoing donor engagement and fundraising success. Use New Year’s-themed campaigns, early outreach, stewardship plans, and recurring giving options to keep donors engaged.

  • New Year's-Themed Engagement Campaigns

    • Launch New Year’s-themed engagement campaigns that encourage donors to continue their support and set new goals for the year. Use themes of renewal and resolution to inspire action.

      • Example: A New Year’s email campaign that encourages donors to make a resolution to support your organization in the coming year, with specific suggestions for how they can get involved.

  • Early Outreach for Next Year's Corporate Partnerships

    • Begin reaching out to potential corporate partners early in the year. Use the momentum from your year-end campaign to build new relationships and secure support for the coming year.

      • Example: Schedule meetings with potential corporate partners in January to discuss opportunities for collaboration and outline partnership proposals for the upcoming year.

  • Stewardship Plans for Year-End Donors

    • Develop stewardship plans for your year-end donors to maintain their engagement and support throughout the year. Use personalized communication, regular updates, and exclusive events to keep donors involved.

      • Example: A stewardship plan that includes quarterly impact updates, personalized thank-you messages, and invitations to exclusive events for major donors.

  • Set Up Recurring Giving Options for New Donors

    • Encourage new donors to set up recurring giving options. This can provide a steady stream of support and increase donor retention.

      • Example: An email campaign that invites new donors to set up monthly donations, highlighting the convenience and impact of recurring giving. Include a link to a simple sign-up form.


XIV. Maintaining Momentum into the New Year

Building long-term relationships with donors and corporate partners is essential for sustainable fundraising success. Develop year-round engagement strategies, create opportunities for input, establish advisory boards, and plan for multi-year partnerships.

  • Develop Year-Round Engagement Strategies

    • Create strategies to engage donors and partners throughout the year. Use regular communication, events, and updates to keep them involved and invested in your mission.

      • Example: A year-long engagement plan that includes monthly newsletters, quarterly impact reports, and annual events to keep donors informed and connected to your organization.

  • Create Opportunities for Donors and Partners to Provide Input on Future Initiatives

    • Involve donors and partners in the planning and development of future initiatives. Use surveys, focus groups, and advisory boards to gather their input and build stronger relationships.

      • Example: An advisory board composed of major donors and corporate partners that meets quarterly to provide feedback on your organization’s programs and strategies.

  • Establish a Corporate Partner Advisory Board

    • Create a corporate partner advisory board to provide ongoing support and guidance for your organization. This board can help you identify new opportunities, develop strategies, and build long-term partnerships.

      • Example: An advisory board that includes representatives from your top corporate partners, meeting regularly to discuss partnership opportunities, co-branded campaigns, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

  • Plan for Multi-Year Partnerships and Giving Agreements

    • Develop multi-year partnership agreements with your corporate partners. These agreements can provide long-term stability and support for your organization’s programs.

      • Example: A multi-year partnership agreement with a major corporation that includes annual donations, employee engagement activities, and joint marketing campaigns.



Conclusion

Utilizing matching gifts and corporate partnerships effectively can significantly boost your year-end fundraising efforts. By preparing thoroughly, educating donors, building authentic relationships, leveraging existing partnerships, seeking new opportunities, and maintaining momentum into the new year, you can maximize the impact of your campaign.


Remember, the key to success lies in clear communication, personalized engagement, and demonstrating the tangible impact of donations.


 

Visit Impctrs Management Group at www.impctrsmgmtgroup.com for more tips and resources. We can help you develop a robust donor engagement strategy that resonates with your audience and maximizes your impact. Don’t forget to like and comment on this post and sign up for our email list to stay updated with the latest strategies for successful fundraising.


 

Are you ready to get started on your Year-End Fundraising Plan?

Download the spreadsheet you and your team can start using today.

 

For more tips and resources, stay tuned for the next installment in our 7-part series on getting ready for year-end fundraising. Visit Impctrs Management Group at www.impctrsmgmtgroup.com for additional support and insights for developing and implementing your best Year-End Fundraising Plan to date. Don’t forget to like and comment on this post and sign up for our email list to stay updated with the latest strategies for successful fundraising.

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page