Matching gift programs offered by employers are one of the simplest and most impactful ways to amplify your donors’ generosity. While more than 65% of companies, particularly large corporations like those in the Fortune 500, offer matching gift programs, only a fraction of the potential matching funds are actually utilized, meaning a large percentage of available matching gift programs go underused. Estimates suggest that less than one-third of potential matching gift revenue reaches nonprofits each year.
With a little effort on your part, you can help your donors capture this revenue for your organization!
What Are Matching Gifts? Matching gifts are charitable giving programs in which companies match donations made by their employees to eligible nonprofit organizations. For example, if a donor gives $100 to a charity, their employer might match that amount, effectively turning their $100 gift into $200 for your organization. Some companies even offer a 2:1 or 3:1 match, exponentially increasing the value of the contribution. There is often additional funding available for those who sit on your board or volunteer in other ways.
Why Are Matching Gifts Important?
Maximize Impact
Matching gifts provide nonprofits with additional resources to fund their programs and initiatives. It’s an easy way to gain increased revenue from one simple gift.
Strengthen Communities
By encouraging employees to give back, companies foster a culture of generosity and community engagement. This creates a ripple effect, benefiting not just the nonprofit, but the broader community as well.
Raise Awareness
When donors leverage matching gifts, they often inspire others to give, knowing their impact will be multiplied. It’s a simple but powerful way to build momentum for a cause.
How to Take Advantage of Matching Gifts
Check Eligibility
Many companies offer matching gift programs, but each has its own guidelines. Encourage your donors to check with their HR department or use online tools like Double the Donation to see if certain employers participate.
Ensure your donors have the necessary proof of their gift.
Most companies make the process simple. Donors typically need to provide proof of their donation, such as a receipt or acknowledgment letter from the nonprofit. Make sure your donors have what they need to secure the match.
Spread the Word
Encourage donors to check if their employers offer matching gifts. The more people participate, the greater the impact. You can do this in your thank you letters, on social media, through your newsletters, or as a tool on your website.
Why Now? As we approach the end of the year, many donors are planning their charitable contributions. It’s the perfect time to maximize their impact by taking advantage of matching gifts. This is a great time to remind donors of the potential of having their gifts matched by their employer.
Greater Revenue Matters More Than Ever For many organizations, matching gifts help stretch every dollar further to provide critical services to their community. With increasing needs, organizations need to maximize their opportunities to increase revenue, especially heading into the New Year.
Encourage Employer Matching Gifts Today! Don’t let this opportunity go unclaimed for your donors—these matches could be the key to maximizing revenue with little effort on your part.
Have questions? Let’s chat!
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