Companies in LA that Offer Powerful Volunteer Initiatives

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Los Angeles, a sprawling metropolis known for its vibrant culture and economic dynamism, is also a significant hub for corporate philanthropy and volunteerism. The city’s diverse business landscape, ranging from entertainment giants to tech innovators, creates a fertile environment for impactful volunteer initiatives. As a result, many companies headquartered or operating in LA have embraced corporate social responsibility by implementing robust volunteer programs that benefit both their employees and the community.

These volunteer initiatives not only foster employee engagement but also provide nonprofits with valuable resources through volunteer grants and paid volunteer time off. As a result, nonprofits in LA can leverage these programs to amplify their missions and deepen community impact. Understanding which companies offer these opportunities and how their programs work is essential for organizations seeking to maximize support from the local corporate sector.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

As we dive deeper into the corporate volunteer landscape in Los Angeles, it’s important to recognize the tremendous opportunities that exist for nonprofits. With many companies offering robust volunteer programs, the potential for nonprofits to partner with businesses in LA has never been greater. Lucky for you, this guide will help you navigate the local corporate landscape, uncover valuable opportunities for collaboration, and show you how to tap into the power of corporate philanthropy to enhance your nonprofit’s impact.

Let’s explore the key players in LA’s corporate volunteer space and the programs they offer to help you make the most of these valuable resources.

What to Know About Major LA Companies in the Corporate Volunteer Space

Los Angeles stands as the second-largest city in the United States by population and ranks among the top metropolitan economies globally. Its significance as a business and nonprofit hub cannot be overstated. The city is home to thousands of companies, including a substantial number of Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 firms. This concentration of corporate power fuels a thriving economy that spans entertainment, technology, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors.

LA’s diverse industries contribute to a rich culture of corporate philanthropy. Many companies headquartered here recognize the importance of giving back to the community and have developed comprehensive corporate volunteer programs. These initiatives often include volunteer grant programs, where companies provide financial donations to nonprofits based on employees’ volunteer hours, and Volunteer Time Off (VTO) policies, which allow employees to take paid time off to volunteer.

The presence of such programs reflects the city’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. Nonprofits in LA benefit greatly from this ecosystem, as corporate volunteer programs provide both financial support and increased volunteer capacity. Understanding the landscape of corporate volunteerism in LA is crucial for nonprofits aiming to build partnerships and secure funding through these initiatives.

Top Companies in LA That Offer Volunteer Grant Programs

Volunteer grant programs are a powerful way for companies to support nonprofits by providing financial donations based on employees’ volunteer hours. In Los Angeles, several leading companies have established such programs, enabling nonprofits to receive additional funding while encouraging employee volunteerism. Below is an overview of some of the top companies in LA with volunteer grant programs and how their initiatives work.

Disney

The Walt Disney Company, a global leader in entertainment headquartered in Burbank, CA, offers a comprehensive volunteer grant program. Disney employees who volunteer a minimum number of hours, typically around 10 hours per calendar year, can request a grant to be awarded to the nonprofit they serve. The program is open to full-time and part-time employees, with grant amounts often ranging up to $500 per employee annually.

Disney’s volunteer grant program encourages a wide variety of volunteer activities, including community service, education, and environmental projects. Grants can usually be submitted multiple times per year, allowing employees to support several organizations. This program not only incentivizes volunteerism but also helps nonprofits secure additional funding tied directly to employee engagement.

Learn more about the program here!

Microsoft

Microsoft, a technology giant with a significant presence in the LA area, offers a robust volunteer grant program known as the Employee Giving Program. Eligible employees who volunteer at least 15 hours per year can request grants for their nonprofit organizations. The grants typically range from $500 to $1,000, depending on the employee’s role and tenure.

Microsoft’s program supports a broad spectrum of volunteer activities, including STEM education, community development, and environmental sustainability. Employees can submit grant requests quarterly, and the company often matches volunteer hours with financial contributions, amplifying the impact of employee efforts. This program is designed to foster a culture of giving and community involvement among Microsoft’s workforce.

Learn more about the program here!

Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric, a global specialist in energy management and automation, headquartered in the LA area, offers a volunteer grant program that rewards employees for their community service. Employees who volunteer a minimum of 10 hours annually are eligible to apply for grants, which can be up to $500 per employee per year.

The program encourages volunteering in areas related to sustainability, education, and community development. Schneider Electric allows employees to submit grant requests twice a year, providing flexibility and multiple opportunities to support nonprofits. This initiative aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, making it a valuable resource for nonprofits in LA.

Learn more about the program here!

Adobe

Adobe, a leader in digital media and marketing solutions based in San Jose but with a strong LA presence, offers a volunteer grant program that incentivizes employee volunteerism. Employees who volunteer at least 10 hours annually can request grants of up to $500 for the nonprofits they support.

Adobe’s program includes various volunteer activities, such as arts education, technology access, and community services. Grant submissions are accepted multiple times per year, and the company emphasizes volunteerism as a key component of its corporate culture. Nonprofits partnering with Adobe employees can benefit from these grants to enhance their programs and services.

Learn more about the program here!

Merck & Co

Merck & Co., a global healthcare company with operations in the LA region, offers a volunteer grant program that rewards employees for their time spent volunteering. Employees who complete a minimum of 10 volunteer hours annually are eligible to request grants, typically up to $500 per year.

The program supports a wide range of volunteer activities, particularly those related to health, education, and community welfare. Merck encourages employees to submit grant requests quarterly, providing nonprofits with a steady stream of potential funding. This program reflects Merck’s commitment to improving community health and well-being through corporate philanthropy.

Learn more about the program here!

Google

Google, a major technology company with offices in the LA area, offers an extensive volunteer grant program as part of its broader corporate social responsibility efforts. Employees who volunteer at least 20 hours per year can request grants, which can be as high as $1,000 annually.

Google’s program supports a diverse array of volunteer activities, including education, technology access, and environmental causes. The company allows multiple grant submissions per year and provides additional support through matching gift programs. This comprehensive approach helps nonprofits maximize funding opportunities linked to employee volunteerism.

Learn more about the program here!

Leading LA Companies That Provide Volunteer Time Off

Volunteer Time Off (VTO) programs are another impactful way companies in Los Angeles support community engagement. These programs allow employees to take paid time off specifically to volunteer for causes they care about. Many leading LA companies have embraced VTO policies, recognizing the value of enabling employees to contribute their time without sacrificing income. Below is an overview of some of the top companies in LA offering VTO programs.

Farmers Insurance Group

Farmers Insurance Group, headquartered in Los Angeles, offers a Volunteer Time Off program that provides employees with up to 16 hours of paid time annually to volunteer. The program supports a broad range of volunteer activities, including disaster relief, education, and community services.

Eligibility for the VTO program typically requires employees to be in good standing and have completed a minimum tenure with the company. Farmers Insurance encourages employees to use their VTO to support causes that resonate personally, fostering a culture of giving back. The program also includes opportunities for team volunteering and company-sponsored community events.

Learn more about the program here!

Intuit

Intuit, a financial software company with offices in the LA area, offers a Volunteer Time Off program that grants employees up to 16 hours of paid volunteer time each year. The program is designed to empower employees to engage with nonprofits and community projects that align with their passions.

Intuit’s VTO program includes flexible scheduling options and encourages employees to volunteer in areas such as financial literacy, education, and environmental sustainability. The company also supports employee-led volunteer initiatives and provides resources to help employees find suitable volunteer opportunities. This approach enhances both community impact and employee satisfaction.

Learn more about the program here!

Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines, with a significant operational presence in Los Angeles, offers a Volunteer Time Off program that allows employees to take paid time off to volunteer. Employees typically receive up to 16 hours of VTO annually, which they can use to support a variety of nonprofit causes.

The program emphasizes volunteer activities related to community development, disaster relief, and education. Delta encourages employees to coordinate with their managers to schedule VTO and often partners with nonprofits to organize volunteer events. This program reflects Delta’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.

Learn more about the program here!

Siemens AG

Siemens AG, a global technology and engineering company with offices in LA, provides a Volunteer Time Off program that grants employees paid time to volunteer. Employees are generally eligible for up to 16 hours of VTO per year, which they can use to support causes aligned with Siemens’ corporate values.

The program supports volunteer activities in areas such as STEM education, environmental sustainability, and community development. Siemens encourages employees to participate in both individual and group volunteer efforts and provides resources to facilitate volunteer engagement. This program enhances Siemens’ reputation as a socially responsible employer and community partner.

Learn more about the program here!

Explore More LA Volunteer Programs with a Workplace Philanthropy Database

While the companies highlighted above represent some of the most prominent volunteer grant and VTO programs in Los Angeles, many more businesses in the city and beyond offer similar initiatives. Nonprofits seeking to maximize their engagement with corporate volunteer programs can benefit greatly from using a workplace philanthropy database like Double the Donation.

Promoting corporate volunteerism on your website with an embeddable database tool.

Such databases provide comprehensive listings of companies offering volunteer grants, matching gifts, payroll giving, and Volunteer Time Off programs. By leveraging these tools, nonprofits can easily identify additional corporate partners in LA and elsewhere that align with their mission and volunteer needs. This targeted approach helps organizations connect with businesses that are actively investing in community impact through employee volunteerism.

Additionally, many databases offer integration options that embed corporate volunteer program information directly into nonprofit workflows, such as registration forms, volunteer follow-ups, and dedicated volunteer web pages. This seamless integration ensures that volunteers are informed about their eligibility for corporate volunteer grants and can take full advantage of these opportunities.

Wrapping Up & Final Thoughts

Los Angeles is a vibrant city where corporate volunteer initiatives play a crucial role in supporting nonprofits and strengthening communities. The presence of major companies offering volunteer grant programs and Volunteer Time Off policies creates valuable opportunities for nonprofits to secure additional funding and increase volunteer engagement. From entertainment giants like Disney to tech leaders such as Microsoft and Google, these companies demonstrate a strong commitment to social responsibility through their volunteer programs.

Nonprofits in and around LA can leverage these powerful initiatives by understanding the specific requirements and benefits of each company’s program. Exploring workplace philanthropy databases can further expand nonprofits’ access to corporate volunteer programs, helping them identify new partners and streamline volunteer engagement. By actively pursuing these opportunities, nonprofits can boost their impact, deepen supporter relationships, and secure sustainable funding to advance their missions in Los Angeles and beyond.

How Double the Donation Can Elevate Your Corporate Volunteer Strategy

Ready to unlock the full potential of corporate volunteer programs? With Double the Donation’s tools, you can effortlessly capture volunteer grants and employer-sponsored time off, helping you maximize the value of every hour your supporters give.

Don’t miss out on additional funding opportunities that could significantly boost your nonprofit’s revenue. Get started today, and see how easy it is to integrate volunteer incentives into your fundraising strategy. Let Double the Donation help you turn volunteer hours into lasting impact. Request a personalized demo today!

Leaving Money Behind: 5 Signs You’re Missing Matching Gifts

Leaving Money Behind? 5 Signs You’re Missing Matching Gifts

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If you’re a nonprofit, you’re likely aware of how critical fundraising is to sustaining and growing your mission. While individual donations are essential, corporate matching gifts can dramatically increase the total amount you raise with minimal additional effort. However, many nonprofits unknowingly leave money behind by failing to fully leverage these matching gift opportunities.

In fact, research shows that up to 90% of eligible matching gifts go unclaimed, representing a significant amount of potential funding that could boost your nonprofit’s revenue. The result? More than $4 to $7 billion in matching gifts are being left on the table each year.

So, how can you ensure that you’re not missing matching gifts? In this post, we’ll explore the five key signs that you’re leaving gifts unmatched, why that matters, and how to fix the problem. This includes:

  1. Not actively promoting matching gifts.
  2. Not integrating matching gifts into your donation flow.
  3. Not collecting donor employment information.
  4. Not following up with recurring or payroll givers.
  5. Not tracking matching gifts as they are submitted.

All in all, matching gifts are one of the easiest and most effective ways to boost nonprofit donations. However, many organizations continuously fail to make the most of this opportunity.

Whether it’s a lack of promotion, insufficient follow-up, or not having the right tools in place, you might be leaving money on the table if you’re not capturing matching gifts effectively. But this guide will help you capture every possible donation to increase your nonprofit’s success! Let’s begin with the first sign your organization is missing the mark on matching gifts.

Sign #1: You’re not actively promoting matching gifts.

One of the first and most obvious signs you’re missing matching gifts is a lack of promotion. If you’re not regularly promoting matching gift opportunities, many of your donors may not even be aware that they can double (or triple) their contributions through their employer’s matching gift programs.

Why This Matters:

Active promotion is key to ensuring your donors are aware of matching gift opportunities and understand how simple it is for them to take advantage of them. Without making matching gifts a key part of your messaging, donors may overlook the opportunity, and the funds will go unclaimed.

Many donors simply don’t think about matching gifts unless they’re actively reminded.

How to Fix It:

  • Incorporate matching gift information on your website: Prominently feature matching gift details on your website, providing easy access to tools that let donors search for their company’s program. One of the best ways to do this is by building a dedicated matching gift page with an embedded company database search tool. This empowers you to provide helpful links to donors’ matching gift submission portals directly from your site!Make sure you're not missing matching gifts by promoting the opportunity on your match page
  • Promote via email and social media: Send targeted campaigns to your donors at regular intervals, particularly before key fundraising periods such as Giving Tuesday, end-of-year appeals, or your nonprofit’s anniversary. Use engaging visuals and compelling messages to highlight the ease and impact of matching gifts.
    Make sure you're not missing matching gifts by sharing impactful content on social media
  • Highlight matching gifts in thank-you messages: When thanking donors for their contributions, always include a reminder about the possibility of matching gifts. Be specific about how they can apply for the match, and even make this information prominent in your email signatures.
  • Make sure you're not missing matching gifts by sending email follow-upsCreate engaging content around matching gifts: Develop blog posts, videos, or infographics that explain how matching gifts work and why they matter. This content can be shared on social media or included in your donor-facing newsletter.Make sure you're not missing matching gifts by sharing engaging content like this sample blog post

Quick Tip: Did you know that some companies (like Grainger, Coca-Cola, Soros Fund Management, General Mills, and more) match gifts up to 3 times the original donation amount? That could mean a huge increase in revenue for your nonprofit if you’re promoting it effectively!

Sign #2: You haven’t integrated matching gifts into your donation flow.

Even if you’re promoting matching gifts in emails and social media, you might be missing out if matching gifts aren’t integrated into the donation process itself. If matching gift options aren’t featured at the point of donation, you could be losing opportunities right from the start.

Why This Matters:

Integrating matching gifts into your donation flow ensures that donors can take advantage of them seamlessly while making their donation. If matching gifts are an afterthought or are not included at the point of donation, many donors may forget to claim their match or may be unsure about how to do so.

How to Fix It:

  • Add a matching gift prompt during the donation process: Include a field asking if the donor’s employer matches gifts. Make it easy for them to enter this information right when they donate, which will prevent them from having to go back and submit the request later.
    Make sure you're not missing matching gifts by incorporating it directly into your donation forms
  • Provide a matching gift search tool: Integrate a tool that helps donors search for their company’s matching gift policy. A matching gift search tool, such as Double the Donation, makes this process much easier and increases the likelihood of donors following through with their match request. For the simplest donor experience, look for a solution that offers matching gift auto-submission, too!
  • Offer clear instructions: Once donors indicate that they are eligible for a match, provide them with detailed instructions on how to submit the matching gift request. This could be a link to their employer’s portal or a simple PDF guide explaining the process.

Most often, donors are at the height of their engagement with your cause while actively donating to the organization. That makes it the perfect time to incorporate matching gift opportunities seamlessly into the giving process. By presenting matching gifts as an extension of the donation experience itself, you not only simplify the donor experience but also increase conversion rates.

Instead of treating matching gifts as an afterthought or a separate step, make it a natural part of the donation flow. This minimizes friction and maximizes the chance that donors will follow through with their employer’s matching gift request, resulting in more funds for your cause with little additional effort.

Sign #3: You lack donor employment information.

If you don’t collect donor employment information, you may miss the opportunity to match their gift with their employer’s contribution. Many matching gift programs require nonprofits to identify which employees are eligible for matching gifts. Without this information, it becomes impossible to track or claim matching funds.

Why This Matters:

Without knowing where your donors work, you won’t be able to claim matching funds from their employer. Collecting this information is crucial because it allows you to identify potential matching opportunities and follow up with donors or employers directly.

How to Fix It:

  • Collect employment data on donation forms: Add a prominently placed field on your donation form where donors can voluntarily share their employer’s name. Make sure it’s optional, but encourage donors to fill it out, as it will allow you to capture more matching gifts and broader workplace giving opportunities.
  • Incorporate employment data into follow-up communications: When thanking donors, include a gentle reminder to share their employment information so you can track and follow up on matching gifts.
  • Use an employer append service to locate employment information: If you’re unable to collect employment details directly from donors, consider using employer appends. These dedicated services match your donor database with publicly available employment information, allowing you to identify where your donors work and whether their company offers a matching gift program. This method helps ensure you’re capturing matching gift opportunities even when employment information isn’t known upfront, and it can help you grow revenue and engagement through other forms of workplace giving, too.

Collecting employment information ensures your team isn't missing matching gifts.

Did You Know? More than 65% of Fortune 500 companies offer matching gift programs. If you’re not asking for employment information, you’re missing out on potential revenue from these enterprise-level businesses!

Sign #4: You’re not following up with recurring or payroll givers.

While it’s easy to forget about matching gifts once a donor has set up a recurring donation or payroll gift, these ongoing donors can be prime candidates for donation-matching opportunities. However, if you don’t follow up with them, they may never apply for the match.

Why This Matters:

Recurring givers and payroll donors are often forgotten when it comes to matching gifts, yet they’re some of the most loyal supporters you have. These donors may assume that their gift can’t be matched or may forget to apply for matching funds after they’ve donated.

How to Fix It:

  • Set up a recurring matching gift follow-up system: After a donor signs up for a recurring gift (whether through their payroll system or otherwise), be sure to send periodic reminders about matching gift opportunities. For the best results, follow up with simple instructions and offer them support if they have any questions.
  • Engage payroll donors at key points: For payroll givers, consider sending reminders during payroll periods or around key dates, such as the anniversary of their initial donation or the end of the calendar year, to encourage them to apply for matching gifts.
  • Make matching gifts part of your donor journey: Ensure that matching gift information is included not only during the initial donation process but also woven throughout the donor journey. From your new donor welcome series to ongoing engagement for recurring and payroll givers, you’ll want to consistently remind them about the potential to maximize their contributions through matching gifts.

Following up with recurring or payroll givers is crucial. After all, it ensures that matching gift opportunities don’t go unnoticed. Since these donors are already invested in your cause, they are more likely to take advantage of matching gifts if they are reminded regularly.

Quick Tip: For a look at leading companies that match payroll donations, check out our compilation list here.

Sign #5: You don’t track matching gifts as they are submitted.

One of the most significant issues nonprofits face with matching gifts is the lack of tracking throughout the process. If you’re not tracking matching gifts from the moment the opportunity is identified through the time the donor ultimately submits the request, you risk missing matching funds or failing to follow up in a timely manner.

Why This Matters:

Tracking matching gifts allows you to follow up with donors and their employers, ensuring that matches are completed successfully. Without proper tracking, there’s no way to ensure that your nonprofit receives the full amount of donations you’re eligible for.

How to Fix It:

  • Use matching gift software: Tools like Double the Donation allow you to track matching gifts throughout the donor journey. These systems help you stay organized and follow up with donors and employers when necessary.
  • Monitor progress regularly: Create a system for reviewing the status of matching gift requests on a regular basis. This can be done manually or through an automated platform to ensure no matches are left unprocessed.
  • Set up follow-up reminders: Develop a system that automatically reminds you to follow up with donors or companies if a matching gift is still pending. This will ensure no matching opportunities fall through the cracks.

Building tracking into your matching gift strategy to ensure you're not missing matching gifts

Proper tracking of matching gifts is essential for ensuring your nonprofit receives each and every dollar it’s entitled to. Moreover, setting up automated tracking not only ensures no matching gift goes unclaimed but also strengthens your relationship with donors by showing them that you care about maximizing the impact of their contributions. Talk about a win-win!

Wrapping Up & Additional Resources

Matching gifts offer nonprofits a huge opportunity to increase their revenue without much additional effort. However, many organizations are missing out on these funds because they aren’t promoting, tracking, or following up on matching gift opportunities effectively. By addressing these five signs you’re missing matching gifts, you can significantly increase your fundraising potential and maximize the impact of each donation.

Start by reviewing your current processes and implementing the strategies outlined in this post. From actively promoting matching gifts to integrating them into your donation flow, these steps will help ensure that you capture every dollar of potential matching funds. The more you optimize your process, the more successful your matching gift program will be.

Interested in learning more about incorporating strategic matching gift efforts into your overall fundraising strategy? Check out these recommended guides:

Make sure you're not missing matching gifts with an automation platform like Double the Donation.

How to Steward Workplace Giving Donors Effectively

How to Steward Workplace Giving Donors Effectively

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Workplace giving donors are some of the most valuable supporters an organization can have, but are also some of the trickiest to steward. Also known as employee giving or workplace philanthropy, workplace giving is the practice of making a charitable donation through a program sponsored by an employer, often through a payroll deduction.

It’s no surprise that these programs are growing in popularity. Employees feel a connection to causes they care about. They appreciate programs that make it easier to support social good organizations, especially when there is an employer match to amplify their impact.

When properly stewarded, workplace giving donors can be ideal prospects for cultivating over time. In this article, we’ll cover the essentials of stewarding workplace donors and the data you need to make it happen:

But first, let’s take a look at why these donors are so important.

The Value of Workplace Giving Donors

Several factors make workplace giving donors worth your organization’s attention.

1. Workplace donors are loyal.

Workplace philanthropy platforms and workplace-sponsored programs are designed to encourage donations, especially recurring gifts. They make giving easier by providing a path to give with reminders and incentives. Plus, these programs create a culture of philanthropy where giving is the norm rather than the exception.

Because of corporate programs like payroll deduction, matched donations, or monthly philanthropic stipends, workplace donors are far more likely to donate frequently.

2. Workplace donors are reliable.

Donors who give through workplace programs often represent some of the most consistent supporters a nonprofit can have. Their steady income, along with the convenience of payroll deduction or workplace stipends, makes it easy to sustain recurring gifts, creating a dependable foundation of support year after year.

3. Workplace donors are excellent candidates for larger gifts.

Frequency of giving and wealth capacity are the best indicators of major giving eligibility. It makes sense: if a donor has been making a bi-monthly contribution through their paychecks for years, it is likely they have a strong affinity for your organization and clearly have the capacity to budget for charitable giving. For these reasons, corporate donors can be excellent prospects for major or even principal gifts as they advance in their careers.

4. Workplace giving programs often include a corporate match.

Another important reason to pay attention to workplace giving donors is that their contributions often count for more than (even double!) the listed amount. To incentivize philanthropy, workplace giving programs frequently allow for some amount of an employee’s contribution to be matched by the employer. 

If you’re not proactively seeking matched donations, your organization is leaving money on the table. Check out Double the Donation’s technology options to identify and facilitate matched gifts!

The Challenges of Workplace Philanthropy Data

For all their advantages, workplace giving donors pose several core challenges for nonprofit fundraisers. Many organizations struggle to gather the data they need to acknowledge and steward workplace giving donors for long-term support. Here’s why:

Workplace giving data comes at varying times.

Depending on the employer sponsoring the corporate giving program, your organization may receive disbursement files with information about corporate gifts weekly, monthly, quarterly, or at a different interval altogether. Even once you have this gift data, it’s not always clear when it will make its way into your CRM and become available for development and stewardship officers to use.

Workplace giving data arrives in different formats.

Different organizations use different systems for workplace giving programs, including Benevity, YourCause, and Cybergrants, to facilitate gift transactions. Each of these systems formats the information slightly differently, from field names to how it displays street addresses. This causes challenges for moving data into your CRM or general ledger. Not to mention, duplicate records are common. Your organization may have two records for the same donor, one for corporate giving and another for the donor’s personal philanthropy. Without complete corporate philanthropy data, it is difficult to know that both records relate to the same person.

Bad data leads to poor workplace giving stewardship.

Effective donor stewardship hinges on accurate data. Without timely, reliable information on your donors’ giving history, addresses, and communication preferences, it’s hard to thank, update, and develop relationships with donors that foster long-term support.

Moreover, insufficient data holds stewardship back by limiting opportunities for personalization. For example, many organizations find value in thanking first-time donors differently from repeat donors. Sharing a bit about the organization’s mission and current initiatives can make it easier to secure a second gift from a new donor. As a result, flagging new donors depends on having sufficient data on your current donors to ensure they aren’t duplicate records, a struggle for many organizations.

How to Steward Corporate Philanthropy Donors

Now that you understand its importance, as well as potential challenges you may face, let’s dive into a few key strategies nonprofits like yours can implement to effectively steward workplace giving donors.

1. Develop a process for gathering corporate philanthropy donor data.

Investing time in creating a workflow for gathering, transforming, and storing workplace giving donor data will pay off in the future. If your organization relies on manual spreadsheet edits before time-consuming uploads into your CRM, chances are your corporate giving data is plagued with errors, including duplicate records. Luckily, there are solutions for automating workplace giving data imports, so you can spend less time wrangling spreadsheets and more time on the meaningful outreach that will keep your donors engaged.

2. Thank donors promptly.

Once you have a workflow that automates, or at the very least, streamlines moving donor data into your development CRM, create a report that notifies your team about a gift from a corporate donor. Run that report once a week, or have it automatically sent to your inbox.

From there, build a process to thank these donors quickly. Take advantage of email marketing templates and tokens to personalize these notes at scale. A common goal is to let no more than 5 business days pass between receiving a gift and sending an acknowledgement.

Remember to keep automated acknowledgements fresh. Corporate donors are often frequent donors. Sending the same thank-you note to a donor on multiple occasions comes off as insincere, even if well-intentioned. Switch up the images, introductions, subject lines (if applicable), and acknowledgement text at least once a quarter to maintain variety in your content.

3. Personalize your outreach.

Make your acknowledgements meaningful: personalize wherever you can. Using a donor’s preferred name is an obvious starting point. However, we encourage you to get creative and use the data you have at your fingertips. Conduct donor surveys to understand how your donors like to be thanked. Is a phone call, voice mail, email, or text preferred? Think about the areas of interest for your donors. Are there particular initiatives you can provide updates on? Who at your organization is the best person to conduct the outreach? Perhaps a grant recipient, student scholar, researcher, or board member would be best suited for this role. The more you can match your donors’ preferences, the better the effect.

Learn more about building complete donor profiles in a free eBook from Omatic Software.

4. Show impact.

It’s crucial to nail acknowledgments; no donor should go without a proper thank you. Once acknowledgements are in order at your organization, you can move on to another essential aspect of stewardship: impact reporting.

Impact reporting can keep even the most seasoned stewardship officers up at night! Often, the development offices charged with fundraising don’t have much control over how (or when) the organization spends that funding. Reporting on the real-world effects of philanthropy requires tracking gifts and figuring out not only what the gift purchased, but why that matters for your mission. When donors know their funding makes a difference, they’re far more likely to give again. 

5. Don’t forget about the “workplace” in workplace giving.

Finally, think about one of the aspects that makes a corporate giving donor unique: the fact that they give through an employer-sponsored program. This is an opportunity to cultivate a relationship with an institution that can make a significant impact on your organization. Find out who organizes this workplace philanthropy program. Learn who the C-suite champions of the programs are. From there, show gratitude and explore options for collaboration.

It’s worth taking the time to discover which programs help with employee retention and how your organization can get involved, as this could lead to a long-term, fruitful partnership.

Wrapping Up: Data Matters

Effective donor stewardship requires accurate data; you can’t properly thank donors if you don’t know who they are or how they want to be acknowledged. Don’t let the challenges of gathering corporate philanthropy data prevent it from happening; losing a workplace giving donor is losing a shot at long-term, sustained support.

Luckily, there are tools at your disposal to streamline workplace giving data and simplify stewardship. Ready to learn more about stewarding workplace giving donors? Join Omatic Software and Double the Donation for a live webinar on the dos and don’ts of workplace philanthropy. Get your questions answered by experts during the Q&A. Save your seat today!

How to Get Corporate Volunteers and Source Lasting Partners

How to Get Corporate Volunteers and Source Lasting Partners

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Corporate volunteers are an incredible resource for nonprofits, offering both manpower and expertise to help advance your mission. However, attracting and retaining these individuals and groups requires strategic planning and clear communication about the benefits to both the organization and the volunteers themselves.

If you’re wondering how to get more corporate volunteers for your cause, this guide will provide you with actionable insights on sourcing and engaging them effectively, as well as tips on building lasting partnerships. Specifically, we’ll cover:

Ready to walk through the key steps and strategies that can help you tap into the full potential of corporate volunteers, from identifying potential partners to keeping them engaged in your mission long-term? Let’s begin!

Why do corporate volunteers matter for nonprofits?

Corporate volunteers are an invaluable resource for nonprofits, providing more than just extra hands on the ground. Beyond their time and labor, corporate volunteers bring expertise, networks, and energy that can help your organization expand its impact and reach. Engaging corporate volunteers effectively can strengthen your programs, enhance your nonprofit’s visibility, and foster lasting partnerships that benefit both your mission and the companies involved.

Here are the main reasons why corporate volunteers matter for nonprofits like yours:

  • Expanded manpower and resources: Corporate volunteers enable your nonprofit to tackle larger projects or serve more beneficiaries without significantly increasing costs.
  • Specialized skills and expertise: Many corporate volunteers bring professional experience in areas like marketing, IT, finance, or project management that can strengthen your programs and operations.
  • Increased community visibility: Employees volunteering for your cause often share their experiences with colleagues, friends, and social networks, amplifying awareness of your nonprofit.
  • Enhanced supporter relationships: Corporate volunteers often become more personally invested in your mission, increasing the likelihood that they will support your organization through donations in addition to their time.
  • Stronger partnerships with companies: Engaging employees in volunteer programs can lead to long-term corporate partnerships, including financial support, matching gift contributions, and sponsorship opportunities.

By understanding the value that corporate volunteers bring, nonprofits can design programs that maximize both impact and engagement. When leveraged strategically, corporate volunteer programs not only extend your organization’s capacity but also cultivate meaningful, long-term partnerships that benefit your nonprofit, your volunteers, and the communities you serve.

8 Effective ways to source corporate volunteers

Now that we’ve established why corporate volunteers are essential, let’s dive into how you can attract and source them for your nonprofit’s initiatives. Implementing a comprehensive strategy will increase your chances of creating strong, lasting partnerships with corporate volunteers. Here’s what we recommend.

1) Create a Compelling Volunteer Program

To attract corporate volunteers, you need to first make the volunteer program appealing. Develop structured, engaging volunteer opportunities that not only provide value to your nonprofit but also benefit employees. Some companies may prefer group volunteer events where team members can work together, while others may be interested in skill-based volunteer opportunities.

For the best results, provide clear expectations, timelines, and outcomes for each project. The easier it is for companies and volunteers to understand the impact they will have and the logistics involved, the more likely they are to participate.

Quick Tip: Consider offering flexible volunteer opportunities, including virtual volunteering or skills-based projects, to appeal to a wider variety of companies and employee schedules.

2) Research Companies with Established Volunteer Programs

The first step in sourcing corporate volunteers is to identify companies with established volunteer programs. Many businesses offer employees paid time off to volunteer, or they may have set days for volunteering as part of their company culture.

Start by researching businesses in your local area, industry sectors relevant to your mission, or those known for their philanthropy. A simple online search (i.e., “companies with volunteer programs near me”) can provide valuable insights into which companies are engaged in CSR and actively seek partnerships with nonprofits.

Looking for some examples? Companies with volunteer grant programs include Walmart, Coinstar, ConocoPhillips, Apple, and Sam’s Club.

Meanwhile, employers with volunteer time off policies include Lowe’s, Deloitte, FirstBank, Getty Images, and Patagonia.

And businesses with both types of volunteer programs include Verizon, Allstate, Microsoft, Hasbro, Disney, CVS Health, Bank of America, and Cisco Systems.

Learn how to get corporate volunteers from these participating companies

Quick Tip: Consider reaching out to companies with a history of supporting causes similar to yours. If your organization focuses on education, for example, look for companies with established programs in this area.

3) Leverage Industry Networks

Networking is an essential tool when it comes to sourcing corporate volunteers. Leverage your professional networks, chambers of commerce, or even platforms like LinkedIn to reach out to business leaders and community-oriented companies. By attending industry events, trade shows, or community gatherings, you can directly network with professionals who may want to give back in a meaningful way through corporate volunteering.

Did You Know? Companies that volunteer with nonprofits often see an increase in employee satisfaction and retention. Corporate volunteer programs offer employees a chance to work together outside of their usual work environment, fostering stronger team bonds.

4) Use Your Current Donor and Volunteer Base

Your existing network of donors, volunteers, and board members can be a powerful resource when sourcing corporate volunteers. After all, many of your current supporters may work for companies that offer volunteer grants or volunteer time off programs. You can encourage them to leverage their workplace volunteering benefits by explaining how they could get involved.

Consider sending an email like this:

Learn how to get corporate volunteers with dedicated outreach

For the best results, try creating outreach campaigns or personalized appeals that highlight the impact of corporate volunteerism, both for the nonprofit and for the companies involved. This can help you tap into an existing pool of potential volunteers with the added advantage of personal connections. Make sure the content is as tailored as possible, providing precise information about an individual’s corporate program opportunities and direct links to get involved.

Hear what the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati has to say:

5) Reach Out Directly to Corporations

Sometimes, the most effective way to get corporate volunteers is to approach companies directly. Don’t be afraid to cold email or call HR departments, employee engagement teams, or CSR managers. But also check whether you already have a connection! Your existing donors and volunteers may be willing to provide a warm introduction to their employer, helping you get your foot in the door with ease. Be clear about your mission, the kind of volunteer support you need, and how the partnership can benefit the company.

When reaching out to corporations, make sure your communication is tailored to the specific company you’re targeting. Highlight why their employees would be a great fit for your nonprofit and how their participation aligns with the company’s values.

Businesses are more likely to engage in corporate volunteerism if they can see the tangible benefits for their employees and company culture. When reaching out, highlight the value of corporate volunteering for the company: the positive impact on employee engagement, team-building, skill development, and enhanced brand reputation. This mutual benefit will make it easier to gain corporate support.

6) Approach Local Businesses and Startups

While large corporations may seem like the obvious target for corporate volunteering, local businesses and startups can also be great partners. These businesses may be looking for ways to make a social impact and engage employees in meaningful work right in your community.

Many small businesses and startups are interested in community involvement, but don’t have the same large-scale programs as larger corporations. Offering a volunteer program can help them establish a strong reputation in the community. Therefore, try pitching volunteer opportunities as a team-building experience. Local businesses often seek ways to boost employee morale and collaboration. By positioning your volunteer opportunities as team-building exercises, you can attract small and mid-sized companies looking for meaningful ways to engage their employees.

7) Tap into Employee Resource Groups

Employee Resource Groups (or ERGs) are internal networks within companies that support underrepresented groups, such as women, veterans, or people of color. ERGs are often looking for ways to engage in community outreach and corporate volunteerism. Therefore, reach out to the ERGs within companies to offer volunteer opportunities aligned with their group’s mission. For example, if you are an LGBT-focused nonprofit, a company’s ERG for queer and allied employees might be interested in volunteering.

8) Use Job Boards and Volunteer Platforms

There are a variety of online platforms that connect corporations with nonprofit organizations. Many job boards and volunteer platforms feature corporate volunteer programs, where companies and their employees can sign up to help local charities.

For example, dedicated platforms allow nonprofits to post specific volunteer opportunities that companies can access. By using these platforms, you can attract corporate teams who are looking for group volunteering activities.

How to get corporate volunteers with online job postings

Engaging and retaining corporate volunteers in your nonprofit’s program

Attracting corporate volunteers is only the first step. Retaining them and building long-term partnerships is where the real value lies.

To ensure the ongoing success of your corporate volunteer program, focus on creating a meaningful and rewarding experience for corporate volunteers.

1) Provide Recognition and Feedback

Acknowledging and appreciating corporate volunteers is essential for retaining them. Regular recognition and gratitude help volunteers feel valued and encourage them to return for future opportunities.

For the best results, provide feedback on their efforts so that they can continue to improve over time.

2) Offer Long-Term Engagement Opportunities

Rather than focusing on one-time volunteer events, provide opportunities for ongoing engagement. For example, invite corporate volunteers to participate in long-term projects, mentor employees or community members, or even take on leadership roles in certain initiatives.

3) Foster a Sense of Community

Corporate volunteers will stay engaged longer if they feel like part of a community. Build a strong culture of volunteerism by facilitating networking, creating social events, and keeping volunteers informed about the impact of their work. This sense of community will make them feel more connected to your nonprofit and more motivated to stay involved.

4) Explore Ongoing Corporate Volunteer Partnerships

One of the most powerful ways to engage and retain corporate volunteers is by developing strong partnerships with their employers. When volunteers feel supported by their companies, they are more likely to stay engaged and continue participating in your nonprofit’s initiatives. This creates a win-win situation where both your organization and the corporation benefit from the collaboration. Additionally, volunteers can play a key role in advocating for corporate volunteerism within their workplace, helping to secure long-term support and increase participation across their company.

5) Focus on Tangible Volunteer Impact

Corporate volunteers are most engaged when they can see the real difference their time and skills make. Highlighting tangible outcomes not only motivates volunteers to continue participating but also strengthens your nonprofit’s credibility with corporate partners. Demonstrating measurable impact is key to building long-term relationships and reinforcing the value of corporate volunteer programs.

6) Explore Other Workplace Giving Opportunities

Oftentimes, corporate volunteering is just one of many ways employees can support your nonprofit. Encouraging volunteers to explore additional workplace giving programs can deepen their engagement while maximizing your organization’s impact. After all, many companies offer multiple avenues for employees to give back, in addition to volunteer programs, such as payroll giving, matching gifts, and more. By educating volunteers about these opportunities, you help them make a bigger difference, foster long-term support, and turn volunteers into donors for your mission.

Sourcing corporate volunteers: FAQs

Looking to learn more about how you can get corporate volunteers for your organization’s next event? Browse the following frequently asked questions by nonprofits like yours:

How do I find companies in my area that offer corporate volunteer programs?

You can start by conducting an online search for “corporate volunteer programs near me” or by looking for local chambers of commerce and business directories. Additionally, explore websites of large corporations, as many list their corporate social responsibility initiatives, including volunteer opportunities. Alternatively, consider investing in a volunteer program database like Double the Donation, which compiles information on thousands of companies’ philanthropy initiatives, including volunteer grants and VTO, making it readily available via a quick search in the plugin tool.

What’s the difference between volunteer grants and volunteer time off (VTO)?

Volunteer grants are financial contributions made by companies to nonprofits in exchange for employee volunteer hours, while VTO is paid time off that companies provide to employees for volunteer activities. Both are valuable benefits, but they serve different purposes: volunteer grants provide funding to nonprofits, and VTO offers employees time away from work to volunteer.

How can I create a volunteer program that appeals to corporate volunteers?

To attract corporate volunteers, focus on creating structured, skill-based opportunities that align with both your nonprofit’s needs and the interests of the company’s employees. Offering flexible volunteer opportunities, including virtual or group projects, can also be key to attracting diverse volunteers.

What are some examples of companies that have strong corporate volunteer programs?

Companies like Microsoft, CVS Health, Bank of America, and Patagonia are well-known for their robust corporate volunteer programs. These companies often provide paid volunteer time, individual and team volunteer grants, and other ways for their employees to contribute to community causes.

How can I retain corporate volunteers over the long term?

To retain corporate volunteers, focus on providing meaningful, ongoing engagement opportunities. Recognizing their contributions, offering long-term projects, and fostering a sense of community can all help keep volunteers connected to your nonprofit and motivated to return.

How do I measure the impact of corporate volunteerism for my nonprofit?

It’s essential to track the outcomes of your volunteer programs to show the tangible impact on your mission. This can include corporate volunteer metrics like the number of volunteer hours contributed, the specific projects completed, or improvements in organizational capacity. From there, sharing these results with corporate partners can help strengthen the partnership.

Wrapping Up & Next Steps

Attracting and retaining corporate volunteers is an essential strategy for any nonprofit looking to expand its reach and impact. By targeting the right companies, offering meaningful volunteer opportunities, and maintaining strong relationships with corporate partners, you can create a sustainable volunteer program that benefits both your nonprofit and the corporations involved.

Start by researching potential corporate partners, crafting compelling outreach messages, and fostering long-term engagement. Remember: the key to success lies in creating a program that is mutually beneficial for your nonprofit, its corporate partners, and the individuals who ultimately volunteer.

Learn how to get corporate volunteers for your nonprofit with Double the Donation Volunteering.

Building a Matching Gift Strategy A Nonprofit’s Guide

Building a Matching Gift Strategy: A Nonprofit’s Guide

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Creating a strong matching gift strategy can be a game-changer for your nonprofit’s fundraising success. After all, matching gifts offer a simple, high-ROI way to increase revenue without asking donors to give more out of pocket. Yet many organizations leave this opportunity untapped due to a lack of awareness, process, or technology.

Don’t let that be you! Take the time to build a plan that works for your team. This guide breaks down the exact steps you need to take:

Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your existing efforts, you’ll learn how to turn matching gifts into a sustainable and scalable revenue stream for your mission. Let’s begin!

Step #1: Build your knowledge of matching gifts.

Building a robust knowledge of matching gifts is the first step toward implementing an effective strategy. Why? Tons of companies participate in matching gifts, and the processes, eligibility criteria, and matching ratios can vary significantly. To build participation in the programs, it’s essential for your nonprofit to have a solid understanding of how they work.

Therefore, kick off your matching gift strategy by familiarizing your team with the general experience. This should include…

  • The process: Employees donate to your nonprofit, then submit a matching gift request to their employer. If the employer participates in matching gifts, they will contribute a matching donation, often at a 1:1 ratio, although some companies (like Coca-Cola, Johnson & Johnson, and Soros Fund Management) match at a higher rate.
  • Who qualifies: While most full-time employees qualify for matching gifts, retirees, spouses, and board members might also be eligible, depending on each company’s policy. Some programs match individual donations, while others may only match specific types of donations, such as payroll gifts or those made through their workplace giving platform.
  • Submissions and deadlines: Employers often have their own matching gift submission portals with dedicated request forms (and deadlines by which they must be completed), so it’s essential to be familiar with the information donors must submit.
  • Leading employers: Do some research to see which companies in your network already match gifts. Lists like this one can help!

This foundational knowledge is essential for crafting a strategy that includes educating your team, donors, and board members about matching gift opportunities. The more informed your organization is, the more likely you are to identify and leverage every possible matching gift opportunity.

Ready to get started? Double the Donation’s Matching Gift Academy ($199/year or free for existing users) can be an invaluable resource. This online learning platform provides a complete overview of corporate matching gifts, and can supply an excellent opportunity for nonprofit teams to learn more about and kick off the programs.

Step #2: Audit your current state + set goals for improvement.

Before you begin building or refining your matching gift strategy, it’s crucial to audit the current state of your efforts. This will enable you to measure existing wins (if any) and identify gaps, areas for improvement, and opportunities for growth.

As you begin, we recommend asking yourself (or your team) the following questions:

  • Are matching gift opportunities clearly highlighted on your website, including your ‘Ways to Give’ feature and a dedicated matching gifts page?
  • Do your donation forms currently request employer information from donors? Do they mention the potential for matching gift opportunities?
  • Do you inform donors about matching gift opportunities on your thank-you pages, receipts or acknowledgments, and other communications?
  • Are there any roadblocks or friction points in the matching gift process that might be discouraging donors from completing their submissions?
  • How are you tracking matching gift information? Is it easy to follow up with donors who may have eligible gifts?

Take a look at Save the Children’s analysis of their previous and current state matching gift pages:

Save the Children's matching gift strategy analysis

Ready to improve your own efforts? Get started with our free matching gift checklist. Download it below!

Take 10 quick steps to grow your matching gift revenue and funding.

After identifying current strategy gaps, it’s time to implement specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely goals for improvement (also known as SMART goals).

For example, you might want to:

  • Ensure that every donor receives a follow-up email or message regarding matching gift opportunities within 24 hours of receiving their initial donation.
  • Improve donor participation by 20% before the end of the calendar year.
  • Increase the number of match-eligible donations submitted by 50% within the quarter.

By setting clear, actionable goals, you can track progress, measure success, and make any necessary adjustments to your strategy.

Step #3: Secure buy-in for matching gifts.

Securing buy-in for your matching gift strategy is a critical step in ensuring its success and long-term sustainability. Without support from both leadership and other team members, it becomes difficult to implement the necessary tools, dedicate resources, or build an organization-wide culture that promotes matching gifts.

Securing Leadership Buy-In

Firstly, leadership support is crucial to securing the resources and organizational commitment necessary to make your matching gift strategy effective. Here’s how you can ensure your executive team is fully invested in the process:

  • Frame matching gifts as a strategic opportunity. Clearly demonstrate that matching gifts represent “free money” for your nonprofit. Use data-driven insights (such as the ROI expected from such a program) to highlight how much funding your nonprofit could be missing out on by not fully leveraging matching gifts. Executives care about measurable results, and showcasing how a small investment can yield a substantial return will make a compelling argument. Not to mention, a matching gift strategy is especially relevant today as more and more companies are rolling out new giving programs.
  • Align matching gifts with your broader strategy. Whether your focus is on diversifying revenue, increasing retention, or strengthening corporate partnerships, matching gifts can serve as a valuable tool for doing so. Aligning matching with organizational priorities (whatever they are) ensures that your efforts are perceived as a critical component of your fundraising efforts.
  • Showcase nonprofit success stories. Real-world success stories provide concrete evidence of how matching gifts can benefit your organization’s bottom line. If your organization (or similar organizations) has seen positive results from matching gifts, share these outcomes with leadership to help visualize the impact and encourage them to commit to the initiative. If you work for a food security organization, for example, try highlighting insights from Capital Area Food Bank. If you run a local pet shelter, incorporate stats from the SPCA of Texas.
  • Emphasize the scalability and sustainability of matching gifts. Unlike other strategies that require high-touch, ongoing effort, matching gifts can often be automated once systems are in place. This allows your program to grow without requiring significant additional resources, making it a smart, long-term investment.

Once you’ve made your case, it’s crucial to communicate how leadership can help. Clearly articulate what you need to make your matching gift strategy successful, whether it’s funding for software, cross-departmental collaboration, or dedicated time in strategic planning sessions. The more specific your request, the easier it is for leadership to endorse and champion the initiative.

Securing Team Member Buy-In

While leadership buy-in is crucial, your matching gift strategy truly comes to life when team members are actively engaged and committed. Here’s how to get your whole team on board and ensure they actively support the matching gift process.

  • Demonstrate the impact of matching gifts. Encourage staff to see that matching gifts are a way to double donations without asking donors to give more money. When team members understand the value of matching gifts and how they directly contribute to revenue, they are more likely to prioritize these opportunities in their day-to-day work. You can even demonstrate how these programs impact individual team members in reaching their goals or achieving their job priorities!
  • Ensure that everyone knows their role in the process. For example, marketing staff can incorporate reminders about matching gifts into email campaigns and newsletters, while fundraisers can actively inquire about matching gifts during donor conversations, and data managers can ensure that employer information is accurately captured in the platform. Even your hands-on volunteers can play a part!
  • Equip your team with simple, repeatable resources that make promoting matching gifts easy. For example, provide them with email templates and call scripts that highlight matching gift opportunities, FAQs for addressing donor questions, and access to matching gift lookup tools to help donors easily find out if their employer matches gifts. The easier you make it for your team to discuss and promote matching gifts, the more likely they will be to integrate them into their regular workflows.
  • Embed matching gifts into the fabric of your nonprofit’s culture. Ensure that matching gift education is included in the onboarding process for new staff, added to campaign planning checklists, and regularly discussed in team meetings.

When everyone, from leadership to key volunteers, is aligned and actively engaged, your matching gift strategy will become a powerful engine for increased revenue and deeper relationships.

Step #4: Invest in the right matching gift solution.

By adding a matching gift solution to your nonprofit tech stack, you can tap into additional revenue streams with ease, engage donors more effectively, and ultimately expand your fundraising efforts with little to no added effort required. And the good news is that once you have leadership on board, you’ll likely have clearance for a matching gift technology budget. With that, however, comes selecting the right solution to track, manage, and automate your matching gifts.

As you initiate your search, look for a matching gift software solution that offers the following features:

  • Access to a matching gift database: This feature enables you to identify employers that offer matching gift programs (as well as additional giving initiatives like volunteer grants and payroll giving) and view the specific eligibility requirements for each.
  • Ready-built integrations: Select a solution that integrates seamlessly with your existing donor management system (CRM) and fundraising platforms to ensure all data is synchronized and you have a clear view of match-eligible donations.
  • Email automation tools: The ability to automatically send follow-up emails to donors and remind them to submit a matching gift request can significantly increase participation without placing a strain on your team.
  • Analytics and reporting: Ensure that the platform can generate detailed reports that demonstrate the effectiveness of your matching gift program. This should include total match-identified dollars, number of matches submitted, overall donor engagement level, and more.

All in all, an efficient matching gift solution reduces manual effort and increases the likelihood of securing matched donations, allowing you to scale your program effectively.

As you search, don’t forget to read reviews from other organizations that have experience with the tools! re: Charity, for example, offers a detailed comparison of top matching gift software providers, making it easy to take your pick. (Hint: Double the Donation is trusted by 6,000+ nonprofits and schools, with a Google rating of 4.9!)

Step #5: Integrate matching gifts with your fundraising tools.

Integration is key to ensuring a seamless and efficient matching gift process. When you integrate your matching gift platform with your donation forms, CRM, and other fundraising tools, you make it easier for both donors and staff to engage with the program.

Here’s how to integrate matching gifts into your existing fundraising process:

  • Donation forms: Make it easy for donors to indicate their eligibility for matching gifts by including an employer field on your donation forms. You can even add a link or automatic lookup feature to help donors identify if their employer offers a matching gift program by integrating your matching gift software with your donation form provider! Plus, add an actionable plugin widget to your confirmation page to guide their next steps toward a match.
  • CRM: Send data directly from your CRM or donor database to your matching gift platform to ensure donor information (including for offline givers) is up to date and that no match-eligible donations are overlooked. All you need to do is connect your CRM to your selected matching gift platform and ensure the flow of information is set.
  • Peer-to-peer fundraising platforms: Allow participants to easily display and promote matching gift opportunities on their personal fundraising pages by integrating an employer lookup tool and providing a field to input employer information, making it simple for donors to determine if their donation is eligible for a match.
  • Event software: During event registration, add a section where attendees can enter employer information and be provided with immediate access to matching gift instructions or links, ensuring matching opportunities are top-of-mind when they register to attend or donate.

Here’s an example of a matching gift-enabled donation page from La Salle University!

Building a matching gift strategy by integrating your technology

By integrating these tools, you’ll create a seamless matching gift experience for both your donors and your team, driving higher engagement and improving your ability to track and process matches.

Step #6: Prioritize follow-up donor outreach.

When it comes to maximizing participation in matching gifts, regular, relevant outreach is a must. Therefore, it’s important to include matching gifts in your email cadences. Such messages can include instructions for submitting a match, links to their employer’s request portal, and reminders about the impact of their donation being multiplied. These kinds of emails help you keep your organization and its fundraising needs top of mind for donors, enhance the overall supporter experience, and provide targeted information to drive additional match submissions.

Here’s how you can make the most of your donor outreach:

  • Go Beyond Templated Language: Feel free to start with a pre-written email template. However, you’ll want to adjust any provided messaging to match your nonprofit’s tone and voice. Some platforms will also allow for dynamic elements, such as the individual’s donation amount or matching company, to make it feel more personal and compelling.
  • Incorporate Relevant Imagery and Design: Try customizing the color scheme and imagery of your emails to align with your nonprofit’s brand. Visuals that reflect your organization’s mission or the specific campaign the donation supports can increase donor engagement and participation.
  • Set the Right Timing: Schedule emails to be sent at optimal times. For instance, an initial email can go out immediately after a donation, followed by a reminder a few days later if the matching gift request hasn’t been submitted. Adjust the timing and frequency of reminders based on donor behavior to increase the likelihood of match submissions.

Managing effective donor outreach on your own can seem overwhelming. Luckily, once donor information starts flowing in through your integrated fundraising systems, configuring automated emails within your matching gift platform ensures that no opportunity is missed. With a few simple steps, you can send high-impact emails to your donors at the right time, without any added manual effort.

Building follow-ups into your matching gift strategy

By automating donor outreach through your matching gift platform, you streamline the process and ensure that your donors receive timely, compelling, and personalized messages that drive action, all while saving your team valuable time and resources.

Step #7: Implement a matching gift tracking system.

A successful matching gift strategy relies heavily on an effective tracking system, ensuring that all match-eligible donations are followed up on, processed, and successfully submitted by donors to their employers.

With proper tracking in place, you can easily monitor each match’s progress, helping optimize your efforts and maximize revenue. Here’s how to create an efficient matching gift tracking system:

  • Incorporate Real-Time Monitoring: Set up your system to track the status of each matching gift request as it progresses. You should be able to monitor whether donors have submitted their matching gift requests and easily identify any next steps in the process.
  • Make it Easy for Donors to Provide Updates: After a donor initiates a match request with their employer, it should be easy for them to provide an update to your fundraising team. One way to do this is by incorporating trackable, clickable buttons in donor outreach emails. When an individual clicks to confirm that they’ve started the process, Double the Donation can automatically update their status in the backend, helping you keep track of where they are without needing to manually check in.
  • Don’t Forget to Follow Up: Implement scheduled reminders to nudge donors about the status of their match or encourage them to submit a request if they haven’t done so already. Automated reminders like these ensure that no match request slips through the cracks and that donors stay engaged throughout the process.
  • Leverage Comprehensive Reporting: Your tracking system should generate detailed reports that provide insight into the success of your matching gift program. These should include KPIs such as the number of matches submitted, the total matching gift dollars identified, and the conversion rates from eligible donors to completed matches.

Building tracking into your matching gift strategy

By implementing a matching gift tracking system with real-time monitoring, automated reminders, and in-depth reporting, you can streamline the matching gift process, ensure no opportunities are missed, and easily track your program’s progress. This also allows you to address any issues quickly, helping you “unstick” any matches that may be delayed.

Step #8: Develop a comprehensive communications plan.

A well-rounded communications plan is crucial for driving awareness of your matching gift program. Beyond donation forms and follow-up emails, it’s essential to integrate matching gift messaging across as many touchpoints as possible.

The more you make matching gifts visible, the more likely donors are to take advantage of the opportunity.

Here’s how to incorporate matching gift messaging into your communication channels:

  • Create a Matching Gift Web Page: Develop a dedicated page on your website that clearly explains matching gift opportunities. Include information about how matching gifts work, instructions on how to request a match, and a searchable employer database or links to popular programs. This page will serve as the go-to resource for donors. Check out this example from the Humane World for Animals to inspire your own asset!
  • Regularly Schedule Social Media Posts: Share information about matching gifts on your social media platforms (whether that’s Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, or even TikTok!) on a regular basis. Think: at least once a month. Highlight success stories, demonstrate matching gifts’ impact, and encourage followers to check if their donation can be matched. Be sure to include a call-to-action with a link to your matching gift page for more details.
  • Make Space in an Email Newsletter: Include matching gift reminders and information in your regular email newsletters. Whether it’s an entirely matching gift-focused email blast or a feature within a general newsletter, be sure to include a section highlighting matching gifts, and always include a link to your matching gift page for easy access.
  • Send a Text Message: Text marketing is a quick and direct way to engage donors. Send out periodic text messages to remind donors about matching gift opportunities, especially during key donation periods. Include a link to your (mobile-friendly!) matching gift page and a simple prompt encouraging donors to check if their employer matches gifts. Here’s an example of how Save the Children leveraged text messaging for matching gifts:

Building a matching gift strategy with a detailed communication plan

By ensuring that your matching gift information is prominently featured across key channels, you can keep matching gifts top-of-mind for donors and significantly increase the likelihood of participation.

Step #9: Acknowledge and steward matching gift donors.

A key aspect of maintaining long-term donor relationships is showing gratitude for their contributions, especially when they’ve gone the extra mile to submit a matching gift. Proper recognition of matching gift donors can encourage continued support and increase participation in future campaigns.

Building donor acknowledgment into your matching gift strategyConsider the following ways to steward your relationships with matching gift donors:

  • Personalized Thank-You Notes: After a matching gift has been successfully processed, send personalized thank-you messages to both the donor and their company. Acknowledge their generosity and explain how their contribution will impact your nonprofit’s mission.
  • Public Recognition: Consider recognizing matching gift donors in your annual reports, newsletters, or on your website with a dedicated donor wall. Public recognition can motivate other donors to participate in matching gift programs through social proof, too!
  • Donor Impact Reports: Provide matching gift donors with reports or updates that show how their contributions (both original and matched) are being used. This reinforces the value of their donations and helps them feel connected to their giving outcomes.
  • Encouraging Additional Workplace Giving Involvement: Empower matching gift donors to take their support to the next level by participating in their company’s volunteer program, making a payroll deduction gift, or advocating for an internal fundraising campaign. Most matching gift companies (including Disney, Verizon, Microsoft, and Allstate, to name a few) offer more than one workplace giving program, so it’s easy to encourage deeper engagement.

By focusing on relationship-building and personalized recognition, your nonprofit can increase donor loyalty, foster long-term giving, and create more opportunities for matching gifts.

Step #10: Analyze performance and optimize your strategy.

After putting all the pieces of your matching gift strategy in place, it’s essential to continuously assess its effectiveness. Analyzing performance and optimizing your strategy allows you to identify what’s working and what areas need improvement.

As previously mentioned, you should be tracking key metrics such as match revenue growth, donor participation, submission and completion rates, and more. Now, it’s time to use those insights to optimize your matching gift program.

For example, if you notice low participation rates among a specific donor segment, consider adjusting your messaging or offering additional guidance to encourage them to get involved. Meanwhile, if you notice that donors who give through specific channels (e.g., peer-to-peer fundraising or event-based donations) have lower matching gift participation compared to those who donate via direct online forms, this could signal that matching gift opportunities aren’t being highlighted effectively within those channels.

All in all, regular evaluation and continuous improvement will ensure that your matching gift strategy evolves with the needs of your donors and the capabilities of your nonprofit.

Wrapping Up & Additional Resources

Building a comprehensive matching gift strategy is a smart, high-impact way to boost your nonprofit’s revenue and deepen donor relationships. From educating your team and stakeholders to automating processes and communicating effectively with donors, every step contributes to an overall strategy that maximizes the potential of corporate matching gifts.

By following the steps outlined above, your nonprofit can establish a sustainable revenue stream that complements your regular fundraising efforts. As you continually optimize and refine your strategy based on data and feedback, you’ll increase the success of your matching gift efforts year after year.

Ready to learn more about corporate matching gifts and how they can fit into your overarching fundraising strategy? Check out these additional resources:

Building matching gift software like Double the Donation into your matching gift strategy