Companies often donate a wide variety of in-kind contributions, including tangible goods like office supplies, computers, food, or clothing. They may also offer services such as pro bono legal, marketing, graphic design, or IT expertise. Other common donations include event space, advertising or media time, and software licenses. On occasion, companies may donate non-cash assets like securities, stock, or intellectual property. These in-kind gifts can be just as valuable as cash donations, supporting your mission in diverse and creative ways.
UNDERSTANDING CORPORATE IN-KIND DONATIONS
What types of in-kind donations do companies typically offer?
PROMOTING & LEVERAGING CORPORATE IN-KIND DONATIONS
How do we get companies to donate in-kind instead of cash?
To encourage companies to donate in-kind, frame the request around mutual benefits. Show how their product or service directly supports your mission while offering them visibility, tax benefits, or positive CSR value.
Instead of a vague ask, present a clear wishlist of specific needs (e.g., “We need 10 laptops, event chairs, and an event signage for our fundraiser”). Offer recognition opportunities, like adding their logo to event materials or press releases, to demonstrate the promotional return for their contribution. You can also use Double the Donation’s corporate giving database to identify companies with existing in-kind or CSR programs.
How can in-kind donations help us expand our corporate partnerships?
In-kind donations serve as low-barrier entry points for companies to engage with your nonprofit, often leading to deeper financial partnerships down the road. When a company sees the direct impact of their donated goods or services, they are more likely to reinvest through matching gifts, grants, or other forms of workplace giving. By tracking in-kind donation history with tools like Double the Donation’s database, you can identify active corporate partners and use these relationships to pitch broader corporate sponsorships or funding opportunities.
CORPORATE IN-KIND DONATION WORKFLOWS
What’s the best way to find companies that offer in-kind donations?
Start by leveraging your network. Ask board members, volunteers, and staff which companies might be open to donating goods or services. You can also use a corporate giving database like Double the Donation to uncover top employers from your donor base and identify companies that offer CSR or workplace giving programs, in-kind donations, and corporate sponsorships. Lastly, you can also tap into local business networks by attending community events and reaching out directly to corporate philanthropy or HR teams.
How do we ensure corporate in-kind donations are acknowledged properly?
Start by leveraging your network. Ask board members, volunteers, and staff which companies might be open to donating goods or services. You can also use a corporate giving database like Double the Donation to uncover top employers from your donor base and identify companies that offer CSR or workplace giving programs, in-kind donations, and corporate sponsorships. Lastly, you can also tap into local business networks by attending community events and reaching out directly to corporate philanthropy or HR teams.
How do we find the right in-kind donations to meet our nonprofit’s needs?
Start by conducting an internal needs assessment to identify what your nonprofit is missing, whether it’s equipment, software, or services. Prioritize these needs based on their impact and immediacy. Then, create a gift acceptance policy that outlines the types of in-kind donations you can accept (condition, format, storage). Finally, research companies and see if their in-kind programs align with your needs.
Where can we find companies to donate in-kind goods for our event?
Start by leveraging your network. Ask board members, staff, and volunteers which companies they know that might be open to donating for an event. You can also use a corporate giving database like Double the Donation to find companies with CSR programs or in-kind donation opportunities specifically for events. By using this tool, you can access a list of corporate partners that are likely to support your event with donations or sponsorships, making it easier to secure what you need.
How do we apply for corporate in-kind donations?
Start by checking if the company requires a formal application or has an online portal for in-kind donations. Once you know the process, submit a proposal or request letter that clearly outlines your mission, the specific items or services you need, and the impact those donations will have. Don’t forget to mention any recognition opportunities, like branding or event mentions, and set clear deadlines for submission. After your request, follow up with a personal call or meeting with the company’s CSR, philanthropy, or procurement teams to clarify logistics and delivery.
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