The template provides a comprehensive framework with a clear structure for planning and presenting a matching gift marketing plan, including goals, strategies, and actionable steps. Not to mention, each slide is designed to be easily tailored to fit a nonprofit’s unique needs, branding, and matching gift goals.
Why download the Matching Gift Marketing Plan?
Maximize fundraising potential.
Access actionable strategies to significantly boost donation revenue by leveraging corporate matching gift programs. By understanding how to tap into this often underutilized resource, nonprofits can unlock additional funding.
Streamline matching gift processes.
Uncover clear steps for optimizing the management of matching gifts, from identifying eligible donors to simplifying the follow-up process. This helps organizations save time and effort while ensuring they don’t miss out on match-eligible contributions.
Enhance donor engagement.
Donors are more likely to give if they know about matching gifts. Unleash best practices for educating and motivating donors to participate in matching gift programs, strengthening donor relationships and increasing engagement with your cause.
Corporate sponsorships are a cornerstone for many nonprofits, providing vital financial support and fostering meaningful partnerships. However, to truly understand the impact and potential of corporate sponsorships, it’s essential to examine the facts and figures that drive these relationships. From industry trends to the return on investment for nonprofits and companies alike, corporate sponsorship statistics offer valuable insights into how sponsorships are evolving, the types of partnerships that are thriving, and how nonprofits can optimize their sponsorship strategies.
In this post, we’ll explore key corporate sponsorship statistics that every nonprofit should know to better navigate and leverage these partnerships.
Sponsorship makes up 12% of a brand’s marketing budget on average.
Key Takeaway 🔑
With sponsorships accounting for such a significant portion of a brand’s marketing budget, nonprofits have a valuable opportunity to secure funding by aligning with companies looking to invest in high-impact partnerships. By demonstrating how your organization can provide meaningful exposure and engagement, you can attract sponsors who see the value in supporting your cause.
In 2022, global brands invested an astounding $97.4 billion in corporate sponsorships, with the figure expected to reach $189.5 billion by 2030.
Key Takeaway 🔑
The substantial growth in corporate sponsorships, projected to nearly double by 2030, presents a significant opportunity for nonprofits. By strategically aligning with corporate sponsors and demonstrating measurable impact, nonprofits can tap into this growing funding stream to support their missions and expand their reach.
The largest portion of global sponsorship spending comes from North America, totaling over $22.3 billion annually. North America also had the highest growth of global sponsorship spending, increasing by more than $4.2 billion over five years.
Key Takeaway 🔑
North America’s dominance and rapid growth in global sponsorship spending highlight a prime opportunity for nonprofits in the region. By targeting corporate sponsors in this thriving market and showcasing the mutual benefits of partnership, nonprofits can secure a larger share of this expanding investment to fuel their missions.
KPIs companies track to demonstrate sponsorship value:
Sales leads – 48%
Booth traffic – 46%
Attendance/participation – 38%
Social media impressions – 28%
Return on investment – 24%
Brand impressions – 23%
Website traffic – 23%
Post-event surveys - 17%
Media coverage – 12%
Key Takeaway 🔑
Companies prioritize measurable KPIs, such as sales leads, booth traffic, and social media impressions, to evaluate sponsorship success. Nonprofits can attract and retain sponsors by aligning partnership opportunities with these metrics, providing data-driven results, and demonstrating clear value for the company’s investment.
52% of companies that purchase sponsorships prefer to select from a la carte options rather than packages that bundle multiple items at a fixed price.
Key Takeaway 🔑
In order to best attract companies for partnerships, nonprofits should offer customizable sponsorship opportunities. Tailoring packages to meet specific corporate goals can increase appeal, foster flexibility, and maximize sponsorship revenue.
Corporate survey respondents ranked the following sponsorship opportunities as the mosteffective in terms of marketing potential:
Speaking opportunities
Networking events
Social media
E-blasts
Boards/graphics
Official receptions
Event apps
Hospitality lounges
Show directories
Badge lanyards
Corporate survey respondents ranked the following sponsorship opportunities as the leasteffective in terms of marketing potential:
Headrest covers
Taxi toppers
Public transit graphics
Hotel in-room television
Yoga/wellness activities
Hotel room door hangers
Cups/napkins
Shuttle bus wraps
Hotel room drops
Hotel key cards/sleeves
Key Takeaway 🔑
Sponsors prioritize opportunities with high visibility and direct audience engagement, such as speaking opportunities, networking events, and social media. Nonprofits should focus on these high-impact sponsorship offerings while being strategic with alternative options to ensure sponsors see value in their investments.
81% of corporate survey respondents indicated a belief that sponsorships have moderate or significant potential in terms of business value.
Key Takeaway 🔑
With the vast majority of corporate respondents recognizing sponsorships as valuable for their business, nonprofits have a strong case for presenting sponsorships as win-win opportunities. Highlighting measurable benefits like brand visibility, audience engagement, and alignment with social impact goals can help secure corporate partnerships, too!
Roughly 4 in 10 corporate survey respondents who do not invest in sponsorships say their lack of doing so is driven by inadequate budgets and/or personnel. Meanwhile, an additional 40% opted out of sponsorship investments due to insubstantial previous sponsorship results.
Key Takeaway 🔑
Budget constraints and past performance concerns are key barriers for companies not investing in sponsorships. Nonprofits can address these hesitations by offering scalable, cost-effective options and presenting data-backed success stories that demonstrate the tangible value of sponsorships.
When asked what they considered important actions when meeting with a sponsorship representative, corporate sponsors ranked the following most essential:
Being well-prepared
Presenting creative ideas
Asking relevant questions to understand needs
Customizing sponsorship programs to meet the company’s objectives
Providing relevant research data and insights
Key Takeaway 🔑
Corporate sponsors value preparation, creativity, and customization in sponsorship proposals. Nonprofits should focus on understanding a sponsor’s goals, presenting tailored opportunities, and backing their pitch with relevant data to build strong, mutually beneficial partnerships.
Interested in learning how? Check out our webinar replay on building a corporate development strategy here!
Corporate marketers reported strong growth in sponsorship spending for the year, with 44% increasing their budgets over 2022.
Nearly 3 in 10 sponsors increasing their spending did so by more than 40%, while another 4 out of 10 grew their budgets by between 20% and 40%.
69% of corporate sponsors reported that their sponsorship departments would “gain more attention/have an increasingly important role” within their organizations in the next few years.
Key Takeaway 🔑
With nearly half of corporate marketers increasing sponsorship budgets and a majority anticipating greater organizational focus on sponsorships, nonprofits have a prime opportunity to engage with sponsors eager to invest in impactful partnerships. By showcasing measurable results and aligning with corporate goals, nonprofits can secure a share of this growing investment.
Corporate sponsorships continue to be a significant driver of growth for nonprofits, with trends pointing toward increased investment in cause-driven partnerships. By understanding the statistics behind corporate sponsorships, nonprofits can make better-informed decisions, craft more compelling proposals, and engage with potential sponsors in ways that deliver mutual value.
With the right data in hand, nonprofits are better positioned to build strong, long-lasting relationships that support their mission and drive their success. Stay informed, adapt to emerging trends, and leverage the power of corporate sponsorships to elevate your organization’s impact with ease.
Ready to learn more about corporate sponsorships and beyond? Check out these recommended blog articles:
Corporate sponsorships play a vital role in helping nonprofits achieve their missions. After all, these partnerships provide much-needed financial resources, increase visibility, and foster mutually beneficial partnerships between fundraising organizations and the companies that support them. However, to fully leverage the opportunities, nonprofits must track corporate sponsorships effectively to ensure accountability, transparency, and long-term success.
Lucky for you, this guide is here to provide actionable strategies, tools, and best practices for tracking sponsorships with ease.
Whether you’re new to corporate fundraising or are looking to refine your processes for better results, this post will equip you with the knowledge to manage your sponsorships like a pro.
Why is tracking corporate sponsorships essential?
Tracking corporate sponsorships ensures effective management of these valuable partnerships—not to mention maximizes their benefits. Here’s why it’s so important for organizations like yours:
Strengthening Relationships with Sponsors. Corporate sponsorships thrive on strong relationships. By keeping detailed records of contributions, obligations, and communications, nonprofits can ensure consistent and meaningful engagement with sponsors.
Growing Accountability and Transparency. Nonprofits have a responsibility to show how sponsorship funds are used. Tracking enables organizations to provide detailed reports to sponsors, demonstrating that resources are allocated appropriately and in line with agreed-upon objectives.
Measuring Impact. Tracking allows nonprofits to assess the success of sponsorships. This includes evaluating the financial support received, the success of sponsored initiatives, and the value delivered to the sponsor, such as brand visibility or audience engagement.
Streamlining Reporting. Accurate tracking simplifies the reporting process for internal use, sponsors, and regulatory bodies. Well-documented sponsorships save time and reduce errors when creating financial reports, filing taxes, or preparing performance updates for stakeholders.
Improving Strategy. A thorough tracking system provides insights into which sponsorships are the most effective. Nonprofits can use this data to refine sponsorship packages, enhance proposals, and focus on partnerships that align with their mission and generate the most value.
Avoiding Missed Opportunities. Corporate sponsorships often come with deliverables such as event branding, media mentions, or reporting requirements. Tracking these commitments ensures nonprofits meet their obligations, maintain credibility, and avoid jeopardizing future sponsorships.
By prioritizing the tracking of corporate sponsorships, nonprofits can maintain organized, impactful, and mutually beneficial partnerships.
Remember: it’s not just about managing sponsorships effectively—it’s about setting the stage for growth, trust, and ongoing wins.
Core steps in the corporate sponsorship tracking process
For the best results, tracking should occur at every stage in the corporate sponsorship process. Here’s a look at how your organization can begin implementing partnerships—and what to track for each phase:
1. Identify Potential Sponsors
Targeting the right sponsors increases the likelihood of securing partnerships and ensures a good mission fit. That said, this first step in the partnership process involves researching and identifying companies that align with your nonprofit’s mission, goals, and target audience.
We recommend looking for companies with a history of philanthropy or partnerships with nonprofits like yours. Then, analyze their marketing or corporate social responsibility goals to ensure alignment with your organization. From there, you can use tools like LinkedIn, networking events, or local business directories to identify and engage with prospective sponsors. And don’t forget to look for companies with existing relationships to your cause, such as employee giving engagement, either! Your donors’ employers are going to be some of your greatest prospects, while you can use other components to narrow down your list and target your focus.
What to track at this stage: Potential sponsors, companies to reach out to, your donors’ employers
2. Develop a Compelling Sponsorship Proposal
A sponsorship proposal serves as your pitch to potential sponsors, outlining the benefits and specifics of the partnership you seek. A strong, tailored proposal shows potential sponsors how a partnership would meet their objectives and add value to their bottom line.
As you craft your proposal, include details about your nonprofit’s mission, audience demographics, and past successes. Plus, offer sponsorship packages that highlight visibility opportunities, such as logo placements, event sponsorships, or media mentions. You can even personalize proposals based on the sponsor’s interests, whether it be employee engagement or brand alignment.
After all, the best sponsorships occur when both parties’ needs are being met, allowing the relationship to co-create value on all sides.
What to track at this stage: Outreach to potential sponsors, as well as any responses you receive
3. Secure Sponsorship Agreements
Once a sponsor agrees to work with you, you’ll want to formalize the arrangement through a written agreement that outlines specific expectations. After all, a clear agreement protects both parties and ensures transparency and accountability throughout the partnership.
In the arrangement, start by clearly defining any financial or in-kind contributions, timelines, and deliverables. Specify how and when the sponsor will receive agreed-upon benefits and include terms for any modifications that may arise.
What to track at this stage: Partnership expectations and timelines
4. Deliver on Commitments
Delivering on your promises strengthens relationships and boosts the likelihood of companies ultimately renewing their sponsorships. This next step ensures that all obligations outlined in the agreement are fulfilled to maintain the sponsor’s trust and satisfaction.
To do so, be sure to track milestones and deadlines to ensure timely execution. Provide promised benefits, such as branding opportunities, event access, or social media mentions, and document the process to show proof of fulfillment throughout.
What to track at this stage: Tangible deliverables agreed upon through the sponsorship
5. Measure and Report Impact
At this point, it’s time to evaluate the outcomes of the sponsorship to demonstrate its success to the sponsor—and inform future partnerships. Sponsors want to see the value and impact of their support, which justifies their investment and builds trust.
For the best results, track metrics like funds raised, audience engagement, or the number of beneficiaries served (but there’s more on that below). You can even use visuals such as charts, photos, or testimonials to make reports engaging, highlighting key achievements and alignment with the sponsor’s overall goals.
What to track at this stage: Mission impact through funds raised or collected
6. Maintain and Strengthen Relationships
This final step focuses on nurturing the sponsor relationship to foster loyalty and future collaborations. After all, strong relationships lead to repeat sponsorships, referrals, and long-term partnerships.
Keep in regular contact with sponsors even after their engagement ends, sharing updates and thanking them for their contributions. Plus, you’ll want to actively seek feedback to improve their experience and explore ongoing sponsorships.
What to track at this stage: Sponsor feedback, opportunities for future improvements or engagement
Metrics & KPIs for tracking corporate sponsorship success
Tracking the success of corporate sponsorships involves the measurement of both quantitative and qualitative outcomes. Here are some key metrics and KPIs nonprofits can use to evaluate and optimize their sponsorships:
Sponsorship revenue
Total monetary contributions received from sponsors.
Percentage of goal achieved
How much the sponsorship helped reach specific campaign or event fundraising goals.
Return on investment (ROI)
Sponsorship income compared to costs incurred in delivering the partnership (e.g., branding, events, or communications).
Audience reach
The number of people exposed to the sponsor’s brand through the partnership (e.g., event attendance, social media impressions, or website traffic).
Social media mentions
Posts, shares, or comments that highlight the sponsor or partnership.
Media coverage
Articles, press mentions, or interviews that reference the sponsorship.
Campaign performance
Results from co-branded marketing campaigns, including click-through rates, conversions, and lead generation.
Event participation
Number of sponsor representatives or employees attending events or engaging in sponsored activities.
Beneficiaries served
The number of people or communities positively impacted due to the sponsorship.
Program outcomes
Tangible results of the sponsorship, such as meals provided, scholarships awarded, or shelters built.
Sponsor retention rate
Percentage of sponsors who renew their support year after year.
By consistently monitoring these metrics, nonprofits can assess the effectiveness of their corporate sponsorships, demonstrate value to their sponsors, and identify areas for improvement to build stronger, more impactful partnerships in the long term.
Next steps & additional resources
Tracking corporate sponsorships effectively is the key to building stronger relationships. By implementing the right tools, following our recommended best practices, and analyzing KPIs to calculate corporate partner success, your organization can foster lasting relationships with sponsors while achieving its mission better.
Remember, the effort you put into tracking today will pay off in future sponsorship opportunities and increased trust with your partners. Take the next step: evaluate your current tracking processes, explore new tools, and refine your strategy to unlock the full potential of your corporate sponsorships.
With the right approach, you’ll not only meet your goals but also create a sustainable framework for long-term success.
Interested in learning more? Check out these additional resources on corporate sponsorships and other forms of workplace giving:
Improve the Donor Journey with Matching Gifts. Grow your donor relationships with corporate giving! Explore how matching gifts can supercharge the donor experience with this free downloadable guide.
In today’s landscape, companies are increasingly focusing on giving back through a variety of corporate social responsibility (or CSR) initiatives. Among these are workplace giving programs, which include matching gifts, volunteer grants, and more, all designed to amplify the impact of employees’ contributions to nonprofits. However, so many companies are giving back that it can be difficult to keep track of which businesses offer these giving initiatives. That’s where a workplace giving database comes in!
Still, keeping your database updated with fresh insights is a must. After all, nonprofits understanding and leveraging these programs can open doors to greater financial support, as well as unlock a broader network of donors and volunteers. And a comprehensive dataset is a great place to start.
That said, this guide will address the basics of workplace giving databases and how organizations like yours can add to and enhance ours. Specifically, we’ll cover:
An accurate and up-to-date database is an invaluable resource for nonprofits seeking to make the most of corporate philanthropy, ensuring that no available support goes untapped. Let’s dive in to see how your team can play a role in this occurrence.
What is a workplace giving database?
A workplace giving database is a comprehensive resource that aggregates information about corporate philanthropy programs offered by companies. These databases typically include details on workplace giving initiatives such as matching gifts, corporate volunteer incentives, and more.
To increase accessibility, a workplace giving database generally comes with a built-in search tool as well, making it quick and easy for donors to uncover the information they need to get involved.
A database tool is typically embeddable, too, offering a simple way for organizations to implement the solution on their websites—including donation pages, volunteer registration forms, confirmation screens, and more.
Benefits of a comprehensive workplace giving database
A comprehensive workplace giving database offers numerous benefits for both nonprofits and donors, empowering them to maximize support through corporate philanthropy programs. Here are some key advantages:
1. Increased Revenue Opportunities
By providing up-to-date information on companies offering matching gifts, volunteer grants, and more, a comprehensive database makes it easy for nonprofits to identify opportunities for additional funding.
2. Streamlined Supporter Engagement
A database helps nonprofits encourage donors to leverage workplace giving programs, such as matching gifts or volunteer grants, that they might not know are available. Donors can quickly check if their employers offer programs that amplify their contributions, which builds stronger connections between donors and the organization.
3. Time Savings and Efficiency
A centralized, comprehensive database saves nonprofits time by eliminating the need for manual research on each company’s corporate giving policies. With eligibility requirements, submission guidelines, and deadlines all in one place, organizations can spend less time researching and more time acting on these opportunities.
4. Improved Corporate Relationships
By understanding corporate giving options in detail, nonprofits are better positioned to cultivate relationships with potential corporate partners. A database provides insights into which companies are aligned with the nonprofit’s mission and values, too, making outreach efforts more targeted and likely to succeed.
5. Proactive Fundraising Strategies
With access to a wide array of corporate giving programs, nonprofits can build more proactive fundraising strategies. Instead of waiting for donors to ask if their contributions can be matched, nonprofits can actively promote these programs, especially during campaigns like year-end giving.
In summary, a comprehensive workplace giving database simplifies the process of connecting with corporate giving opportunities, enabling nonprofits to increase funding, strengthen donor relationships, and build proactive strategies—all while promoting greater corporate involvement in social responsibility.
About Double the Donation’s workplace giving database
Double the Donation’s workplace giving database is the largest and most comprehensive resource available for nonprofits and donors looking to maximize the impact of corporate giving programs. It’s designed to streamline the identification of corporate philanthropy opportunities, providing nonprofits with the tools they need to increase revenue through workplace giving.
This specific database includes information on:
Matching gifts
Volunteer grants (team and individual)
Volunteer time off
Fundraising matches
And more!
Here’s what makes Double the Donation’s solution stand out:
Extensive Company Coverage: Double the Donation’s database includes detailed information on thousands of companies with matching gift and volunteer programs. This coverage ensures that nonprofits and their supporters can find opportunities related to almost any company, regardless of industry or location.
Real-Time Program Updates: To keep nonprofits informed and reduce outdated information, Double the Donation regularly updates its database, ensuring that users have access to the latest information on corporate giving guidelines, eligibility requirements, submission deadlines, and more.
Easy Integration with Nonprofit Websites: Double the Donation’s database tool seamlessly integrates with a nonprofit’s website and donation forms, making it easy for donors to check if their employers offer workplace giving programs right as they engage with your cause.
Automated Donor Outreach and Matching Gift Reminders: In addition to the database tool, Double the Donation’s 360MatchPro also offers automated email streams to remind donors to get involved. These messages empower nonprofits to follow up with those who may be eligible for matching gifts or volunteer grants, complete with company-specific workplace giving insights from the database, too! This proactive approach increases the likelihood that donors will complete the matching gift process, meaning more revenue for your cause.
How our database gets updated (regularly!)
Double the Donation’s workplace giving database is kept accurate and up-to-date through a systematic process. This ensures nonprofits and donors always have access to the latest information on corporate giving programs.
Here’s how Double the Donation maintains the database’s accuracy and reliability:
Continuous program monitoring. Double the Donation maintains a dedicated database team devoted to actively monitoring companies for changes in their corporate giving policies. This group tracks updates through company websites, press releases, and other announcements, ensuring our database reflects the most up-to-date information.
CSR platform data syncs. Double the Donation offers exclusive partnerships with companies’ CSR platforms that enable matching gift auto-submission. But another key win is that the integrations also allow our database to pull companies’ program guidelines directly from the platforms that manage the programs.
Companies submitting updates themselves. Double the Donation collaborates directly with workplace giving companies. As a result, many employers add their programs to the database themselves. Then, by staying in contact with corporate representatives, our team can receive timely updates when companies make program changes.
Donors submitting their employers. Donors using the database often provide feedback if they encounter outdated or inaccurate information. For example, not finding their company if they know a program is available. This user-driven approach allows our team to promptly investigate reported discrepancies, ensuring the data reflects current guidelines.
Nonprofits submitting unregistered companies. Sometimes, nonprofits receive funds from companies not currently registered with Double the Donation’s database. In that case, organizations may choose to submit the new companies to be added for easier access going forward.
Together, these practices ensure that nonprofits and donors can rely on Double the Donation’s database to provide the most accurate information, making it a valuable resource for maximizing corporate giving opportunities.
Adding corporate programs to our database
Double the Donation provides several straightforward options for organizations, companies, or employees to add or update information about corporate giving programs in its database. Thus, individuals or groups can ensure their workplace giving programs are accurately represented by following one of these methods:
Complete the Add a Company Form.
If you want to add a corporate giving program (such as a matching gift, volunteer grant, or VTO program) to Double the Donation’s database for the first time, representatives can fill out the Add a Company Form on Double the Donation’s website. This brief online submission gathers essential information about the company’s programs, including:
Matching gift or volunteer grant eligibility requirements
Match ratios and minimum/maximum donation amounts
Submission process and deadlines
Any specific program guidelines or criteria
Then, once the form is submitted, Double the Donation’s team reviews the information and adds the program to the database. From there, the record will become accessible to nonprofits and donors through the search tool.
Complete the Update Company Information Form.
If a company already listed in the database makes changes to its workplace giving program (for instance, altering match ratios or adjusting eligibility requirements) or otherwise notices inaccurate information, a representative can fill out the Update Company Information Form. This allows users to provide updated details, ensuring that donors see the latest version of the program when they search.
Again, after submission, the information is reviewed by Double the Donation’s data team and promptly updated in the database. This keeps it current for nonprofits and donors who may be impacted by the changes.
Send an Email to data@doublethedonation.com.
For those who prefer a direct approach to adding or refreshing company records, our team also accepts requests via email. All you need to do is send an email to data@doublethedonation.com with the necessary details about the program.
This might include:
New program details or recent updates
Any corrections needed in existing database entries
Supporting documents or links that clarify the information
Other feedback on the workplace giving database
From there, the Double the Donation team will verify the information provided in the email. Then, update the database accordingly, ensuring the accuracy of the program details going forward.
[For One-Off Matching Gifts] Manage Programs in 360MatchPro.
Note: Sometimes, a company will offer a matching gift program with a single nonprofit rather than a widely available initiative. These are referred to as one-off (or custom, unique) matching gift programs, and there’s an easy way to add the program to your database within the 360MatchPro platform itself—that is, if the program is specific only to your organization.
In that case, simply log into your 360MatchPro account, navigate to the “Settings” tab, and select “Manage Programs.” From there, you’ll be prompted to add a new one-off matching gift program by filling out the requested information.
Once complete, the program will show up in your organization’s database search tool—but not for other nonprofits’ donors.
Wrapping up & next steps
Empowering organizations and companies to add new corporate programs to our workplace giving database is just one more step in our commitment to helping nonprofits reach their fundraising potential. By keeping this resource up-to-date with the latest information on matching gifts, volunteer grants, and other workplace giving opportunities, we aim to empower nonprofits to connect more deeply with donors and leverage support from their employers.
Take a look at the companies that have contributed matching gifts to your organization in the past. Are they already included in our database? If not, follow the steps to get them added so that your donors can access program guidelines, forms, and more. That means more matches in the future!
As we wrap up 2024, it’s the perfect time to look back and acknowledge the milestones, innovations, and impact achieved by our team and its partners in the nonprofit and corporate giving sectors. In Double the Donation’s Year in Review 2024, we’ll share key insights, highlights, and achievements that have propelled us forward and helped nonprofits like yours make an even bigger difference.
All in all, this year has been one of remarkable growth, with exciting developments in matching gift technology, ready-built integrations, and groundbreaking functionality designed to help nonprofits unlock more from their fundraising efforts.
In order to celebrate our successes, this overview will cover:
Join us in reflecting on this year’s wins as we gear up for another impactful fundraising season ahead!
Significant product updates & enhancements
In 2024, Double the Donation rolled out a series of significant product updates and enhancements designed to improve the workplace giving experience for nonprofits and their donors. These updates have been instrumental in helping our clients drive more donations, simplify their workflows, and engage donors and other supporters more effectively.
These product updates reflect our commitment to evolving alongside our clients’ needs, ensuring they have the most powerful tools to elevate their workplace giving efforts. As we look to 2025, we’re excited to continue innovating and delivering new features that make a measurable impact on nonprofit fundraising.
Check out an overview of three of our most impactful updates here:
360MatchPro Volunteer Hub rollout
This year, we expanded the capabilities of our platform by launching 360MatchPro Volunteer Hub, a built-in solution designed to support organizations in targeting corporate volunteer initiatives in addition to traditional matching gift management. These initiatives, which include volunteer grants and paid volunteer time off, can go a long way in attracting, engaging, and retaining volunteers. And 360MatchPro Volunteer Hub makes it easier than ever to benefit from the programs by growing awareness and simplifying the engagement experience.
If you haven’t already, take steps to embed our Volunteer Hub database directly into your Volunteers Info page on your website, along with any volunteer registration forms you have.
Security and data protection are top priorities at Double the Donation, and in 2024, we took our commitment to the next level by achieving SOC 2 Type 2 compliance. This integral milestone demonstrates our adherence to rigorous standards for security, availability, confidentiality, and processing integrity.
Achieving SOC 2 Type 2 assures clients like you—as well as their donors—that their data is handled with the highest standards of security and care. Not to mention, it reinforces our role as a trusted partner for nonprofits that prioritize the protection of donor information.
Enhancing the auto-submission functionality has been a major focus in 2024, making it even easier for donors to complete matching gift submissions without the added manual effort. Our most recent improvements to the auto-submission process mean that donors are prompted to auto-submit their matches at multiple touch points throughout the donor journey, increasing the likelihood that they ultimately do so. Now, donors are encouraged to partake in auto-submission once again when they indicate they’ve requested a match, but 360MatchPro has no record of the submission.
All in all, these auto-submission enhancements streamline the matching process, driving more completed matches and enabling nonprofits to capture more matching gift revenue. And it’s all done with minimal time and effort!
So far this year, our team has welcomed over 1,055 new clients to the Double the Donation family, expanding our community of nonprofits, educational institutions, and other fundraising organizations dedicated to making a difference through matching gifts and workplace giving.
Each new client represents a unique opportunity to drive more donations, streamline fundraising efforts, and unlock the full potential of corporate philanthropy. And we’re so grateful for the causes that trust Double the Donation to do so. This growth among our expanding client base strengthens our commitment to helping nonprofits of all sizes access critical matching gift revenue, ultimately increasing their ability to create positive change in the communities they serve.
All in all, we’re honored to work with a diverse array of organizations this year and look forward to supporting them as they continue maximizing their fundraising impact through matching gifts and more in the future.
Standout reviews & testimonials
Double the Donation has been thrilled to receive more than 40 new 5-star Google reviews, underscoring the impact of our commitment to customer and user success. Each of these reviews highlights the effectiveness of our sales and onboarding processes, the value of our technology, and the powerful results nonprofits achieve through our matching gift solutions.
Here are a few examples collected in the last year:
I’m thrilled that Double the Donation is seamlessly integrated with our new giving platform. Our minimal fee for the software has paid for itself in one week! We are thrilled to have this as part of our fundraising platform. This is a game-changer. Easy to integrate, and the team is so helpful to set you up for success!
– Colleen Merrell, St. Mary-Basha Catholic School
Implementing Double the Donation was an incredibly smooth and efficient process. Our representative guided me through every step, making it fast and easy to integrate the employer match software/widget into our nonprofit’s existing systems. Her clear explanations and responsive support have set us up to maximize our fundraising potential. We’re now fully prepared to raise more funds and further our mission. I highly recommend Double the Donation for any nonprofit looking to enhance its donor matching capabilities!
– Kayla Moore, Shelter Inc.
In the fast-paced realm of nonprofit fundraising, efficiency and effectiveness are essential. Double the Donation is a standout platform that is transforming how organizations maximize their donation potential. Tailored for fundraisers and database managers, Double the Donation is more than just a tool—it’s a partner in driving successful campaigns and streamlining donation processes.
– Katie Utterback, The Galloway School
In addition to Google reviews, we also received a number of customer testimonials in the past year—including videos detailing the impact of our tools on various organizations’ efforts. Here’s what a few of these nonprofits have had to say (or check out our testimonials page to watch the clips):
360MatchPro has increased our matching gifts an incredible amount over the past two years we’ve been utilizing it, and it has helped us in so many more ways than we could have imagined. — Emily Delp, Pelotonia
There’s a lot of value in telling a donor that their impact can be doubled or even tripled with just a few clicks. Double the Donation makes it easy for our donors to see this value and act on it pretty much immediately. On the back end, the seamless integration with our database keeps us updated in real-time. — Adam Schafer, Youth on Course
I know that we’re always looking for ways to more effectively and efficiently do our work, and the opportunities that we have in front of us with Double the Donation are endless from my point of view. — Jill Carrell, Pi Beta Phi Foundation
Each of these generous reviews motivates us to keep delivering the best possible experience for our customers, and we’re grateful to our clients for sharing their success stories.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue empowering nonprofits with the tools they need to raise more and make an even bigger impact. And we hope to hear from even more organizations benefitting from our tools!
Network growth: new partnerships & integrations
2024 has been a year of exciting growth for Double the Donation’s integration network. With the addition of more than 14 new partnerships and 11 integration enhancements, we’ve been able to significantly broaden our reach and capabilities.
These strategic collaborations are designed to provide even more value to our clients by expanding access to powerful tools, platforms, and resources that complement our matching gift technology.
These partnerships are designed to allow nonprofits to seamlessly integrate Double the Donation’s matching gift technology into their existing workflows, offering a more streamlined and efficient experience for both organizations and their donors.
By expanding our network of partners and continuously improving integrations, Double the Donation is making it easier than ever for nonprofits to leverage matching gifts as a key component of their fundraising efforts. We’re excited to see the positive impact these partnerships will continue to have as we move into the next year, helping even more organizations maximize their matching gift revenue.
Overall matching gift fundraising success across clients
In 2024, Double the Donation users achieved remarkable success, collectively identifying more than $460,445,322 in matching gift revenue.
This is a powerful testament to the impact of matching gift programs when paired with the right tools and strategies. Through effective communication and proactive engagement, our clients were able to reach more donors, secure more matches, and ultimately drive greater funding to support their missions.
To support this success, clients utilized our platform to send a total of 19,117,522 emails to donors, prompting significant engagement. Our users saw an impressive 71.55% open rate, too—well above industry averages. Additionally, tons of these emails were interacted with, resulting in a 9.6% click rate (also above industry averages), indicating strong donor interest in matching gifts.
These metrics underscore the power of Double the Donation’s solutions in amplifying donor participation and optimizing matching gift revenue. By driving strong engagement rates and making it easy for donors to complete matches, our clients are leveraging every opportunity to boost their fundraising success.
This year’s results highlight the effectiveness of our tools in helping nonprofits expand their impact through matching gifts, and we’re proud to be a part of their journey toward sustainable growth and more.
Comprehensive workplace giving database development
In the past year, Double the Donation has continued to strengthen its position as the leading resource for matching gift and workplace giving information with ongoing enhancements to our comprehensive database.
Today, our database contains over 24,493 company records, providing an extensive resource for nonprofits to easily identify matching gift and other workplace giving opportunities across a broad spectrum of corporations. This robust database represents more than 26,802,622 employees, significantly expanding the reach of our clients to potential supporters worldwide.
But one of the biggest developments we’ve seen this year is the introduction of VTO (or volunteer time off) programs to the database. We are dedicated to helping nonprofits and schools earn more in workplace giving, and we believe it should be easy for you to leverage corporate volunteerism to power your mission. These programs continue to grow in popularity, and our database makes it easy to uncover and leverage their potential.
Our continued focus on database development reflects our dedication to helping nonprofits unlock the full potential of matching gifts and beyond. By providing comprehensive, accurate, and accessible company data, we’re enabling organizations to connect with more donors, raise more funds, and further their missions with confidence.
Invaluable matching gift resources & materials
So far in 2024, Double the Donation has significantly expanded its library of resources, offering nonprofits even more tools and materials to succeed with matching gift fundraising. After all, our goal is to empower organizations with the knowledge, strategies, and practical assets they need to unlock more matching gift revenue and streamline their outreach efforts.
Among our most popular resources this year are…
79 webinars and counting—including a few of our top sessions here:
In addition, we also rolled out a number of customizable marketing materials directly within the 360MatchPro platform. These include templates for matching gifts and volunteer incentives that are free for clients to access, personalize, and share, making it easier to promote the programs than ever before.
With the introduction of these new resources, our team aims to equip nonprofits with everything they need to succeed at every stage of the matching gift journey. As always, we’re committed to delivering high-quality materials that make a tangible difference in our audience’s fundraising efforts, and we look forward to adding even more valuable resources in the coming year.
As we close out 2024, we’re grateful for the nonprofits, corporate partners, and donors who made this a remarkable year. Together, we’ve driven substantial change, innovated how matching gifts are identified and managed, and enabled countless nonprofits to expand their impact.
Going forward, Double the Donation remains committed to enhancing the matching gift experience, providing cutting-edge tools, and supporting organizations in achieving their fundraising goals. Here’s to an even more successful year ahead as we continue to work together for a brighter, more generous future.
Thank you for being part of this journey—let’s make 2025 even better!
Interested in reading more about workplace giving and how Double the Donation can supercharge your efforts? Check out the following resources:
https://doublethedonation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DTD_Double-the-Donations-Year-in-Review-2024-Edition_Feature.png6001600Adam Weingerhttps://doublethedonation.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-dtd.svgAdam Weinger2024-11-12 22:42:572024-11-13 22:00:19Double the Donation’s Year in Review: 2024 Edition
After the whirlwind of #GivingTuesday, many nonprofits find themselves wondering how to maintain the momentum of generosity—and make the most of corporate matching gifts in their efforts. While donations tend to surge on Giving Tuesday, organizations can amplify their impact by making the following day just as powerful. And that’s why we’re introducing the idea of Matching Wednesday.
By strategically focusing on matching gifts the day after Giving Tuesday, nonprofits like yours can create an additional wave of support that builds on the previous day’s success.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know to get started with this unique and impactful campaign idea. This includes:
Matching Wednesday can help nonprofits capitalize on donors’ enthusiasm, encourage more employees to seek corporate matches, and double (or even triple) the support for their causes.
Ready to find out how? Let’s get started with the basics.
What is Matching Wednesday?
Matching Wednesday is a strategic fundraising initiative in which nonprofits can participate immediately following #GivingTuesday.
While Giving Tuesday sparks a boost in donations from individuals eager to support their favorite causes, Matching Wednesday aims to keep this momentum going by encouraging donors to double (or even triple) the impact of their contributions through corporate matching gift programs.
Here’s how it works: on Matching Wednesday, nonprofits reach out to donors who gave on Giving Tuesday (or even before) and remind them to submit their gifts for matching through their employers. They can also highlight matching gift opportunities to new donors, underscoring the added impact their support can have.
The idea behind Matching Wednesday is simple yet powerful—leveraging the enthusiasm generated on Giving Tuesday to unlock even more funding for the cause. By making matching gifts easy and front-of-mind, nonprofits can turn a single day of generosity into an extended period of amplified giving, helping them reach their goals and maximize their mission impact.
Following Up With #GivingTuesday Donors
Giving Tuesday sees some of the highest rates of charitable giving each year. In 2023, 34 million adults in the U.S. alone participated in Giving Tuesday festivities, contributing a total of more than $3.1 billion. And while a lot of those gifts were matched by donors’ employers, the truth is that a lot of matchable gifts went unclaimed. And that’s where Matching Wednesday steps in!
Following up with Giving Tuesday donors come Matching Wednesday is essential to capture the full potential of corporate matching gifts. Many donors may not realize that their contributions can be matched by their employers, effectively doubling or even tripling their impact on the cause. But when they do know, they’ll be eager to get involved.
Here are a few things your team can do to engage these donors and make the most of Matching Wednesday:
1. Send a Personalized Matching Gift Reminder Follow-Up.
The day after Giving Tuesday, send a follow-up message reminding donors who gave about the chance to make an even bigger difference with a matching gift.
Start with a heartfelt thank-you for their Giving Tuesday support, expressing gratitude for their contribution and sharing the impact it will make. Then, (re)introduce the concept of matching gifts, highlighting that many employers will match their donations at no additional cost to them. This gentle reminder can spark interest and motivate donors to check if their employer participates in a matching gift program.
2. Educate Donors About the Ease and Benefits of Matching Gifts.
Many donors may be unfamiliar with how matching gifts work. Use Matching Wednesday as an opportunity to educate them on the process. Provide clear, easy-to-follow, and company-specific instructions on how they can request a matching gift from their employer, and offer assistance for any questions or concerns donors might have about matching gift submissions.
3. Establish a Sense of Doubled Impact.
Use Matching Wednesday to create a sense of amplified donation impact by highlighting how beneficial matched gifts can be. Let donors know how their contributions, when doubled, can address specific needs, such as providing additional meals, funding critical programs, or expanding highly demanded services. This approach makes the matching gift feel like an extension of their Giving Tuesday contribution, deepening their connection to your cause.
Engaging Supporters Who Gave Earlier in the Year
While the idea is centered around the better-known global giving day, it’s important to note that Matching Wednesday doesn’t have to be exclusive to Giving Tuesday donors, either. In fact, it’s also an ideal time to engage supporters who donated earlier in the year but, as far as you know, haven’t submitted their gifts for matching.
By reaching out with a timely reminder to submit their matches, nonprofits can turn previous contributions into a new wave of support on Matching Wednesday.
Here’s how to maximize engagement with these past donors:
1. Segment and Personalize Your Outreach.
Identify donors who gave earlier in the year but may not have submitted their gifts for matching. Send a personalized email acknowledging their previous support and sharing how impactful it would be if they submitted their gift for a match—and how Matching Wednesday is the perfect time to do it. After all, a tailored message makes supporters feel valued and motivates them to take the extra step, knowing that their contributions are still on the nonprofit’s radar.
2. Create a “Last Call for Matching Gifts” Campaign.
Use Matching Wednesday as a final push for matching gift submissions, presenting it as a time-sensitive opportunity. Explain that this is a last chance to double or triple their support this year, especially for those who might have forgotten or overlooked the option earlier. A sense of urgency can inspire action, as donors may be more likely to submit a match if they know it’s the final opportunity for the year. Many companies establish year-end request deadlines, too, meaning time is of the essence.
3. Provide a Simple, Step-by-Step Guide for Matching Gifts.
Many supporters might hesitate to submit their gifts for matching due to uncertainty around the process. Include a quick guide in your Matching Wednesday email to help simplify it. A “Check Your Eligibility” button leading to a matching gift search tool can be particularly effective, allowing donors to quickly confirm if their company offers matching and access any necessary forms.
Re-engaging past supporters for Matching Wednesday allows nonprofits to revive donations from throughout the year and turn them into even greater impact. This last-call reminder serves as an easy and effective way to connect with donors, ensuring their gifts stretch further and help end the year on a high note for the cause.
Best Practices for Matching Wednesday Success
To maximize the impact of Matching Wednesday, nonprofits can implement several best practices to ensure their outreach is compelling and effective. From targeted follow-ups to clear messaging, here are strategies that can help nonprofits make the most of this post-Giving Tuesday initiative:
Mention matching gifts leading up to and on Giving Tuesday, too.
Matching Wednesday is all about matching gifts. But it shouldn’t be the first time your audience hears about the opportunity. In fact, it’s best to begin highlighting matching gifts alongside Giving Tuesday promotions leading up to and on the big day.
By promoting matching gift opportunities early and often, nonprofits can begin building familiarity with the programs. This can substantially boost the day’s revenue, motivating more donors to give—and encouraging them to make their contributions go further when the time comes.
Not to mention, knowing that their donation could be matched can even inspire donors to contribute in larger amounts. Matching gifts allows donors to double or triple their contributions, which is a compelling reason to increase their initial support. Research shows that fundraising appeals—such as those for Giving Tuesday—see a 71% increase in response rate and a 51% increase in average gift size when matching gifts are mentioned.
Take a multi-channel approach to engaging donors.
When it comes to marketing matching gifts, you want to make sure your message is getting across far and wide. Luckily, a multi-channel approach engages donors on multiple platforms, making it easier for them to take action and get involved.
Not to mention, each donor has preferred ways of receiving information. Some may respond best to email reminders, while others are more likely to engage on social media or through text. By reaching out across multiple channels, you can ensure you’re meeting donors where they already are.
Leveraging a combination of email, social media, SMS, and even phone calls empowers nonprofits to create comprehensive, engaging Matching Wednesday experiences that keep matching gifts at the top of donors’ minds.
Highlight matching gift success stories.
Social proof is a powerful tool. On a big giving day like Giving Tuesday (or the subsequent Matching Wednesday), incorporating success stories regarding corporate matching gifts can go a long way toward inspiring action.
For the best results, we recommend supplying specific examples to illustrate the power of matching gifts. Try sharing stories or metrics that showcase what matching funds have previously achieved for your organization. For instance, you might say, “Last year, matching gifts helped us provide meals for 500 additional families.” Impact-driven messaging like this can inspire donors to act, as they can directly see how their matched gifts contribute to the mission.
Alternatively, consider sharing a brief story or example of a past donor whose gift was matched. You can even source a quote from a previous matching gift donor to act as a testimonial! After all, real-world examples can serve as powerful motivation, helping donors see the tangible outcomes of submitting a matching gift.
Invest in matching gift software before Matching Wednesday.
Leading up to Matching Wednesday (or Giving Tuesday, for that matter), you’ll want to conduct an analysis of your existing tech stack and decide if you have what you need for success. If you’re currently missing a matching gift software, we highly recommend getting up and running with such a solution prior to the start of the giving season.
After all, this kind of tool simplifies the matching process by enabling donors to quickly find their employer’s matching gift policy, forms, and submission instructions. The easier it is for donors to confirm eligibility and access forms, the more likely they’ll be to follow through—so this is not something you want to overlook. Not to mention, an automation platform like Double the Donation’s 360MatchPro can streamline the entire process from start to finish, so your team doesn’t have to lift a finger!
After Matching Wednesday concludes, maintain the matching gift momentum by sharing the campaign results with your supporters. For example, highlight the total number of submitted matches and the impact they’ll have on your programs. This kind of transparency fosters trust and shows donors that their efforts to secure a match made a concrete difference, setting the stage for continued engagement.
From there, you’ll want to track key metrics, such as the number of matching gifts secured, total matched revenue, and engagement rates, so you can adjust and improve your efforts for the next year. After all, a successful Matching Wednesday can become an ongoing part of your end-of-year fundraising efforts, extending Giving Tuesday’s impact well beyond a single day in the years to come.
6 Sample #MatchingWednesday Promotions
Ready to get started promoting Matching Wednesday but not sure where to begin? We’ve created a few sample promotions your team can use to engage its donors leading up to and on to the big day.
Matching Wednesday Text Message
Text message copy: Thank you for supporting us on #GivingTuesday! 🎉 Did you know your donation could go twice as far? Today is #MatchingWednesday—click here to see if your employer matches: [Matching Gift Page URL]
Matching Wednesday Email Template
Subject line: Have you given to [nonprofit] this year? Double your impact today—on #MatchingWednesday!
Body:
Dear [donor’s first name],
Thank you for being part of the [nonprofit] family! Your support means the world to us, and today, on #MatchingWednesday, there’s an exciting opportunity to make your impact go even further.
If you’ve donated to [nonprofit] this year, you might be able to double or even triple your gift through your employer’s matching gift program! Many companies offer to match their employees’ charitable donations, but these matches often go unclaimed. Submitting a matching gift request is a simple way to amplify your impact and ensure your generosity reaches even more people in need.
Here’s how you can participate in #MatchingWednesday:
Check if your employer matches donations – Use our matching gift search tool here [Matching Gift Page URL] to see if your company offers matching gifts.
Follow the provided steps – If your employer participates, complete a matching gift request through their system by following the instructions our tool provides.
Watch your impact grow! Every matched dollar helps us bring hope and resources to even more individuals and families.
Why submit your gift for a match today? Matching Wednesday is a limited opportunity to help us close out the year strong and make a difference for the communities we serve. Your support matters, and by taking just a few minutes to check your match eligibility, you can double the power of your donation at no extra cost!
Thank you for your continued generosity. Together, we can make an even greater impact.
Caption: Many employers match donations to [nonprofit], doubling (or even tripling!) your impact at no extra cost to you. Take a moment today to check if your gift qualifies for a match by visiting the Matching Gifts page on our website: [Matching Gift Page URL] #DoubleYourImpact #MatchingGifts
Matching Wednesday Instagram Post
Caption: It’s #MatchingWednesday! 🎉 Did you know that thousands of companies match employee donations? That means your gift could go twice as far—just by submitting a matching request!
Don’t miss this chance to maximize your support and make an even bigger impact. Visit our Matching Gifts page to learn more. #GiveMore #AmplifyYourImpact #MatchingGifts
Matching Wednesday LinkedIn Post
Caption: #GivingTuesday was just the beginning! 🌟 Did you know that your donation could go even further? Many companies offer matching gift programs, meaning your contribution can be doubled or even tripled at no extra cost to you.
Now, Matching Wednesday is the perfect time to take advantage of this opportunity! If you gave to [nonprofit] yesterday or at any point this year, check to see if your employer will match your donation. It’s an easy way to maximize your impact and support the causes that matter most to you.
Not sure if your company participates? Don’t worry—just use our matching gift search tool to find out: [Matching Gift Page URL]
This #MatchingWednesday, let’s make every dollar count for even more. Thanks again for helping us create lasting change. #DoubleYourImpact #EmployerMatching #CorporateGiving #SocialGood #GivingTuesday
Matching Wednesday Twitter Post
Caption: #MatchingWednesday is here! 🎉 It’s the perfect chance to make your #GivingTuesday gift go even further. Check to see if your employer will match your donation and double your impact today! [URL]
Next Steps & Additional Giving Season Resources
Establishing a Matching Wednesday campaign following Giving Tuesday is a smart way for nonprofits to extend their outreach—and make every gift count twice. By promoting matching gift opportunities immediately after a major giving day, organizations can reinforce their message, reach new donors, and deepen their impact overall.
This strategic timing leverages the global popularity and extensive goodwill of Giving Tuesday and engages donors further, reminding them that their support can do more. Embracing the idea of Matching Wednesday can ensure the season of giving extends beyond a single day, unlocking new possibilities for funding and growth in the year-end season and beyond. Just don’t forget to equip your team with the right software going into it!
Interested in learning more about matching gifts heading into a period of holiday giving? Check out these additional resources:
In the landscape of corporate philanthropy, volunteer grants represent a powerful avenue for nonprofits and other mission-focused organizations to increase their fundraising potential. However, when it comes to volunteer grants for faith-based groups (much like that of matching gifts), there can be some nuance regarding eligibility.
While some may assume religious groups to be ineligible for the programs, the truth is that many still qualify for corporate grants. And in this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to make the most of this opportunity for your mission cause. This includes:
For churches, synagogues, mosques, and other faith-based institutions, understanding and tapping into volunteer grant programs can offer a meaningful boost to their efforts, enabling them to further their missions and better serve their communities. Let’s find out how you can do so, too.
Volunteer Grant Basics: What to Know
Volunteer grants, also known as “dollars for doers” programs, are corporate giving initiatives where companies provide monetary donations to nonprofits in recognition of their employees’ volunteerism.
Here’s how the programs generally work:
An individual volunteers with a nonprofit organization.
After completing their volunteer hours, the individual is prompted to look into their eligibility for a volunteer grant.
If eligible, the individual completes a brief request form for their employer, verifying their volunteer hours and offering information about their time spent.
The individual’s employer reviews the volunteer grant request and ensures the effort adheres to the company’s program guidelines.
A volunteer grant is paid out by the employing company to the nonprofit organization according to the number of hours the individual volunteered.
These grants are popular in corporate philanthropy because they encourage employees to give back while also offering financial support to causes their teams care about. This win-win model provides much-needed funds to charitable organizations while promoting a culture of giving within companies.
Common Volunteer Grant Restrictions
Volunteer grant programs are an excellent way for nonprofits to receive additional funding, but they often come with certain restrictions. After all, companies want to ensure grants paid out align with their corporate policies, values, and other requirements.
As a result, routine restrictions may include:
Eligible nonprofits: Many companies will permit volunteer grants to any 501(c)(3) nonprofits in the U.S. (or international equivalent). However, some employers may reserve grants for causes that align with their focus areas (education, environmental protection, etc.), while others exclude certain mission categories altogether.
Eligible employees: Some companies offer volunteer grants only for full-time employees, while others extend the programs to part-time and retired staff—or even employees’ spouses! Meanwhile, select employers require a minimum tenure before team members are eligible to request a grant.
Verification of time: Some companies require nonprofits to verify volunteers’ hours to ensure accurate reporting has occurred. For this reason, effective time-tracking for corporate volunteers is a must.
Minimum and maximum volunteer hours: Many programs require employees to volunteer a number of hours before a grant is triggered, typically in increments like 10, 25, or 50. On the other hand, there are often caps on the total grant amount an individual can request in a year.
Submission deadlines: Many companies establish deadlines for employees to submit volunteer grant requests in order for their time to remain eligible. For example, deadlines are often set within 90 days of a volunteer service or by the end of the calendar year in which an activity was completed.
For nonprofits, understanding these restrictions allows your teams to provide clearer guidance to volunteers while maximizing available funding opportunities. Educating volunteers on their company’s policies, deadlines, and requirements can help ensure their efforts translate to financial support for the organization.
Volunteer Grant Eligibility for Faith Organizations
Volunteer grant eligibility can vary for faith-based organizations—and, unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Many companies place restrictions on religious activities to maintain inclusivity and adhere to corporate giving guidelines.
However, many religious organizations can still qualify for volunteer grants if they meet specific criteria.
Here’s a closer look at how faith organizations can qualify for volunteer grants and what challenges they might encounter:
Secular Programs: Many companies provide grants to faith-based organizations if the volunteer work directly supports a secular program that serves the broader community. For instance, a church operating a community food pantry or shelter that is open to all—regardless of religious affinity—may qualify.
Religious Worship: On the other hand, any activities directly related to religious worship or instruction (e.g., leading Bible studies, performing in church services, or teaching religious classes) are often excluded from volunteer grant eligibility.
That said, there is a wide range of faith-based institutions that do qualify for volunteer grants. These can include:
Independent Charitable Arms: Organizations affiliated with a faith community but operating independently, such as Catholic Charities or Lutheran Social Services, typically qualify because they serve secular needs and operate as independent 501(c)(3) nonprofits.
Schools and Educational Programs: Religious schools and educational programs may qualify for volunteer grants if they provide nonreligious instruction or have a broader community service mission.
Community-Focused Missions: Faith-based organizations involved in community outreach that do not require participation in religious activities (like soup kitchens, after-school tutoring, or disaster relief) are often eligible.
In other words, faith-based organizations often qualify for volunteer grants if their activities meet community needs in a secular or nonreligious context. Understanding each company’s policies on religious involvement can help faith organizations tap into these corporate giving opportunities with greater success than ever before.
Sample Wording From Volunteer Grant Companies
Don’t just take our word for it! Hear directly from several top companies’ program policies regarding volunteer grants for faith-based groups below:
“We do not provide general funding to any organization whose purpose is to promote or discourage the observance or proselytization of religious beliefs. However, we will support such organization’s funding of homeless shelters, soup kitchens or other social service needs. The organization may be asked to provide proof of the community project receiving funding.”
United States-based nonprofit public charities that maintain a current tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and are registered and active in the Benevity Causes portal.
Ineligible Nonprofits
Organizations that engage in political activities.
Organizations that discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, disability, age, or or any other legally protected characteristic or class.
Organizations that do not follow Kohl’s Business Partner Code of Conduct or do not align with Kohl’s overarching mission of giving back to our communities, as determined by Kohl’s.
Organizations for which its tax-exempt status has been revoked by the Internal Revenue Service.
Organizations that intend to use Kohl’s donation for a purpose other than its charitable cause.”
“Eligible Charities” means organizations that (1) meet Verizon’s eligibility rules at https://www.verizon.com/about/responsibility/grant-requirements and (2) are listed as eligible to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service at the time (a) the hours are volunteered, (b) the grant request is submitted and (c) the Verizon Foundation proposes to pay the grant. Note that not all 501(c)(3) organizations are Eligible Charities.
To be considered for an invitation, an organization must be: Classified by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt charity under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and further classified as a public charity under section 509(a)(1)-509(a)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, as follows:
Organizations described in section 170(b)(1)(A) clauses (i) – (vi):
170(b)(1)(A)(i) – Church, provided that the grant will benefit a large portion of a community without regard to religious affiliation and does not duplicate the work of other agencies in the community.”
“What types of organizations are ineligible to receive a Volunteer Challenge Grant?
Organizations other than those that are 501c3 public charities (such as 509a3 supporting organizations) are not eligible to receive a grant from the CVS Health Foundation.
Organizations that discriminate against a person or group on the basis of age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or religious beliefs.
International organizations.
Churches that DO NOT have a 501c3 public charity status from the IRS.”
“The company will not support religious organizations for denominational or religious purposes. If a religious organization has a community outreach program with a tax ID number, EIN number or registered charity number, these programs could be reviewed for approval into My Community. You can search for the organization’s tax ID or EIN number on Guidestar. Please see the examples below.
Ineligible – A Church runs a weekly soup kitchen, but the soup kitchen is not recognized with its own tax ID number, EIN number, or registered charity number – they are simply a program run by the Church and funded directly by the Church.
Eligible – The Church soup kitchen is registered independently with its own tax ID number, EIN number, or registered charity number and is registered independently. In this case, the soup kitchen would be eligible.”
“Organizations applying must meet one of following criteria:
An organization holding a current tax-exempt status as a public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, listed on the IRS Master File and conducting activities within the United States, classified as a public charity under Section 509(a)(1), (2) or (3) (Types I or II); and Deed verified.
A recognized government entity: state, county or city agency, including law enforcement or fire departments, that are requesting funds exclusively for public purposes and Deed verified.
A K-12 public or nonprofit private school, charter school, community/junior college, state/private college or university; or a church or other faith-based organization with a proposed project that benefits the community at large, such as food pantries, soup kitchens, and clothing closets and Deed verified.”
“The Alliant Energy Foundation will not give volunteer grants to religious institutions such as churches, synagogues, temples, or other houses of worship or to any organization whose main purpose is to promote a specific faith, creed, or religion and/or direct resources to advocate for a specific ideology. However, the hours that an eligible participant volunteers for those types of organizations can be counted toward your total hours for the year.”
“By exception, religious organizations may be eligible if funds are designated for certain secular activities provided they are:
i. Are open to all individuals in the community regardless of religious belief;
ii. Serve a secular purpose, such as a food pantry or a homeless shelter; and
iii. Do not require participants to join in religious worship as a condition of receiving the services that the nonprofit offers.”
How Our Tools Drive Volunteer Grants for Faith-Based Groups
The biggest challenge facing volunteer grant success for any organization—but especially faith-based groups—is a general lack of awareness of the programs. Not to mention identifying those who work for companies with inclusive volunteer grant initiatives in the first place.
Luckily, the easiest way to discover the information is with a volunteer grant database tool like 360MatchPro Volunteer Hub. This is a powerful solution for faith-based and other groups looking to boost their volunteer grant revenue by simplifying the process of uncovering and targeting eligible volunteer grants. With this tool, you can embed a searchable company database directly into your volunteer info page—or even your event registration forms!
From there, all an individual has to do is begin typing their company name and select the appropriate employer from the dropdown list. Then, they’ll be met with company-specific program guidelines and request forms in real-time, making it easier than ever for them to get involved.
Wrapping Up & Additional Resources
For faith-based groups looking to expand their impact, volunteer grants are an underutilized but powerful resource. By tapping into these programs, your organization can cultivate stronger relationships with corporate partners, mobilize your volunteer base, and generate essential funding.
Remember, the key to success with volunteer grants lies in building awareness among your supporters. With a strategic approach, your organization can leverage volunteer grants to not only support day-to-day operations but also fuel programs that drive long-term change.
Interested in learning more about volunteer grants for faith-based groups like yours? Check out these recommended resources:
Are you looking to increase matching gift revenue but don’t have much time to invest in the programs?
If you can find just 30 minutes in your schedule, there are small adjustments that have the potential to significantly elevate your organization’s matching gift strategy. These enhancements may include:
After all, maximizing matching gift revenue doesn’t need to be a lengthy or complex process. Many nonprofits miss out on this opportunity simply because they assume it will take too long or require significant resources to implement. But in reality, there are many effective and simple strategies that can drive substantial results in just a few minutes.
Let’s begin!
Method #1: Publish a matching gift post on social media.
Do you maintain Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter accounts for your organization? More than likely, you have some combination of all four. And if so, odds are donors and members are scrolling through your messages on a regular basis, making it a particularly impactful tool when it comes to fundraising.
Take a few minutes to create a post about matching gifts. Not only will it appear on your fans’ walls today, but your matching gift post will linger on your organization’s page forever.
For a headstart, Double the Donation’s 360MatchPro users can access customizable marketing samples within the platform at no additional cost. Just choose a templated graphic, personalize it to your organization, and post it to your social accounts!
And don’t forget, if you use a service to schedule messages in the future, go ahead and create a few matching gift messages to post automatically over the coming months. Regularly sharing matching gift information is key to building familiarity with—and participation in—the programs.
Time Investment Required: Ten minutes
Method #2: Implementing a matching gift CTA on your confirmation screen.
Immediately after donors hit “submit” on their gift, they’re likely redirected to a confirmation screen or thank-you page on the website. This page generally thanks individuals for their support, and often offers suggested next steps to get further involved with the organization. One key way to do so is with matching gifts.
Therefore, we recommend incorporating a prominent CTA, or call to action, on your confirmation page that encourages donors to submit a matching gift.
Highlighting the opportunity so close to the point of donation allows you to pick up on the donors’ heightened momentum and engagement with your cause, translating that into more matching gift submissions overall.
Time Investment Required: Ten minutes
Method #3: Modify your donation acknowledgments to promote matching gifts.
More than likely, your organization sends an acknowledgment letter or email to each individual after they give. If so, this is a great place to promote matching gifts. And since acknowledgments are generally automated, all you need to do is plug a quick blurb about matching gifts into your template or workflow. Then, it will be automatically triggered to all donors once they submit their initial gifts—driving awareness and visibility of the opportunity across your dedicated supporters.
However, more impactful than simply adding a section to your existing acknowledgment letters is sending dedicated post-donation matching gift emails. After all, acknowledgments are often discarded as not requiring additional action, while separate matching gift outreach can be just what you need to grab your audience’s attention. These messages can even be automated using 360MatchPro, making it quick and easy for supporters to receive tailored matching gift insights straight to their inboxes.
Time Investment Required: Five minutes
Method #4: Add a blurb about matching gifts to your staff email signatures.
Email is likely one of your most essential communication channels when it comes to engaging with individual donors. As a result, your email signatures—and those of your entire fundraising team—offer valuable real estate for donor-facing promotions. And we recommend utilizing the space as an easy way to remind donors about matching gifts.
For the best results, you’ll want to link directly to your organization’s dedicated matching gifts page, complete with an embedded matching gift search tool. Otherwise, you can ask donors to “please check with your company to see if they’ll match your donation.”
Time Investment Required: Ten minutes
Method #5: Share information about matching gift companies in your area.
Promoting matching gifts to your external audience often starts with getting your internal team on board, too. While there are a ton of training resources available, one thing you can do in 30 minutes or less is send a list of top matching gift companies to your fundraising staff. You might be surprised to find out that some of your colleagues have never heard of employee matching gift programs—let alone have familiarity with the companies offering them.
While you’ll only be able to include a handful of companies representing a small percentage of companies in your area that will match donations, it can be a good way to raise awareness about the potential of matching gifts.
To kick off your research, this guide from Nonprofit Source provides an insightful look at different matching gift companies across the globe. Plus, it includes a breakdown of popular matching gift hubs by geographic region.
Time Investment Required: Fifteen minutes
[Bonus] Method #6: Send an email to all “Eligible but Not Submitted” donors.
Note: While the previous ideas could be completed with or without Double the Donation’s matching gift software, the next several methods focus on tools within 360MatchPro. Interested in getting started? Request a demo now!
If you subscribe to Double the Donation’s tools, there are a number of ready-built reports available within the 360MatchPro platform. One of these, called the “Eligible but Not Submitted” report, is designed to identify those who have been marked as matching gift eligible by their employer name but have not yet submitted their matching gift requests. Those are your best matching gift prospects, and they’re currently letting their gifts go unclaimed.
Luckily, there’s even an easy way to bulk send emails right from the dashboard, meaning you can select this segment of recipients, trigger a pre-written email, and drive submissions to completion.
Time Investment Required: Twenty minutes
[Bonus] Method #7: Follow up with unclaimed repeat matching gifts.
Donors who have secured a matching gift in the past are going to be significantly more likely to do so again in the future. And if they haven’t yet submitted a match for their repeat gift, a little nudge can go a long way.
Fortunately, Double the Donation has a tool for this, too! All you have to do is quickly navigate to the Repeat Donors report, select the intended recipients from the provided list, and send a bulk email letting them know that they can amplify their impact just like they’ve done before.
Time Investment Required: Twenty minutes
Take your matching gift efforts even further.
In just 30 minutes or less, your organization can make significant strides toward increasing its matching gift revenue—and making an even greater impact overall. By implementing these quick, targeted strategies, you not only maximize funds but also build awareness among donors about how easy it is to amplify their contributions.
Matching gifts represent a valuable yet often underutilized source of revenue. With these small, time-efficient efforts, you’ll ensure that more donors are aware, more gifts are matched, and your organization benefits more from every dollar.
Don’t let time constraints hold you back. By setting aside a bit of time to prioritize matching gifts, you’ll be able to unlock untapped funds, motivate donors to double their impact, and strengthen your organization’s overall giving strategy—all with minimal effort.
Interested in learning more about matching gift fundraising and beyond? Check out these additional resources:
Get to Know the Basics of Corporate Matching Gift Programs. Understand the ins and outs of matching gifts with this educational guide. Access insights regarding the top companies matching gifts, program guidelines and criteria to know, and more.
Become an Expert: Access 10 Steps to Matching Gift Success. Get the free downloadable resource to utilize our 10-step matching gift fundraising checklist. Implement these practices to increase matching gift revenue more easily than ever before.
Marketing Matching Gifts | A Guide for Avid Fundraisers. Uncover even more matching gift marketing tips and tricks in this complete guide. While some practices may require a larger investment of time, the revenue growth will be substantial!
https://doublethedonation.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/DTD_How-to-Increase-Matching-Gift-Revenue-in-30-Minutes-or-Less_Feature.png6001600Adam Weingerhttps://doublethedonation.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-dtd.svgAdam Weinger2024-11-05 11:00:232024-11-07 15:24:36How to Increase Matching Gift Revenue in 30 Minutes or Less
Double the Donation is excited to announce its latest partnership with VolunteerMatters, extending corporate social responsibility technology into the realm of corporate volunteerism. Through this collaboration, 360MatchPro Volunteer Hub is now seamlessly integrated with volunteer management software VolunteerMatters, providing organizations with powerful tools to enhance their corporate volunteer strategies and engage supporters like never before.
“We’re excited about partnering with Double the Donation to transform nonprofits’ use of volunteer grants and volunteer time off incentives,” said Mark Hopwood, President of VolunteerMatters. “VolunteerMatters and Double the Donation share a goal of helping nonprofits create a lasting impact through their volunteer forces, which is exactly what this integration will achieve. We’re proud to offer our mutual clients a powerful tool that makes it easier than ever to unlock new volunteer opportunities and harness the full power of volunteerism.”
With this new integration, volunteers can easily provide their employment information when signing up for events through VolunteerMatters, unlocking access to corporate volunteer incentives such as volunteer grants and paid time off. 360MatchPro Volunteer Hub guides users through the process of submitting corporate volunteer requests, ensuring that nonprofits can effortlessly harness the financial benefits available through their supporters’ employers.
“As the demand for corporate social responsibility, including volunteerism, continues to rise, it’s essential for nonprofits to leverage these opportunities to their fullest extent,” said Adam Weinger, President of Double the Donation. “The integration of 360MatchPro Volunteer Hub with VolunteerMatters’ robust platform helps organizations enhance both volunteer engagement and corporate contributions, driving greater impact across the board.”
The VolunteerMatters and Double the Donation integration is now available to mutual clients.
Ready to elevate your volunteer engagement with corporate incentives? Contact the Double the Donation team today to schedule a personalized demo and see how 360MatchPro can work for your organization. Make sure to mention you use VolunteerMatters!
About VolunteerMatters:
VolunteerMatters offers an all-encompassing volunteer management platform designed to streamline the organization, communication, and engagement of volunteers across various sectors, including nonprofits, schools, and community groups. With a focus on providing user-friendly and intuitive solutions, VolunteerMatters makes it easy to schedule and manage volunteer activities. For more information, visit the VolunteerMatters website.
About Double the Donation:
Automate your matching gift fundraising and corporate volunteering with the industry-leading solution from Double the Donation. The 360MatchPro platform provides nonprofits with tools to identify individuals who qualify for corporate philanthropy initiatives, drive increased participation, and gain actionable insights from the programs. 360MatchPro integrates directly into donation forms, CRMs, volunteer management platforms, and other nonprofit technology solutions to capture employment information and follow up with donors accordingly. To learn more, visit Double the Donation.
https://doublethedonation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/VolunteerMatters-_-DTD-handshake-1.jpg6001600Adam Weingerhttps://doublethedonation.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/logo-dtd.svgAdam Weinger2024-10-29 16:00:182024-10-29 16:14:33VolunteerMatters and Double the Donation Launch Partnership to Support Corporate Volunteerism
The American Cancer Society (also known as ACS) is renowned for its efforts in cancer research, patient support, and advocacy. However, one of the lesser-known secrets to its fundraising success lies in its effective use of matching gifts. By doubling—and in some cases tripling—donor contributions through corporate matching gift programs, ACS has been able to significantly increase its fundraising results.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at how the American Cancer Society harnessed the power of matching gifts to double donations—and see what other nonprofits can learn from their approach. Specifically, we’ll cover:
Double the Donation sat down with the American Cancer Society to discuss the organization’s matching gift strategy. Interested in learning more about how they brought about standout matching gift success? Feel free to watch a brief snippet from the webinar here—or skip below to access a recording of the full, on-demand event.
Let’s begin!
American Cancer Society: Organizational Overview
The American Cancer Society (ACS) is a nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem. Founded in 1913, ACS has become one of the most influential nonprofits in the fight against cancer, funding groundbreaking research, providing support for patients and survivors, and advocating for cancer prevention and early detection.
Today, the American Cancer Society’s ongoing efforts are powered by volunteers, donors, and corporate partners alike, with matching gift programs playing a critical role in increasing the impact of donations. All in all, this ensures that the organization can continue making strides toward a cancer-free future with the right resources in tow.
How the American Cancer Society Secured Internal Buy-In for Matching Gifts
In a recent conversation with key stakeholders—including volunteers and paid staff alike—the American Cancer Society discovered a gap in knowledge that’s proven to be hindering the organization’s matching gift fundraising success.
When internal teams lack awareness around the programs, they’re not taking the steps to rally individual supporters to get involved. That means matching gifts are slipping through the cracks, and teams aren’t prepared to stop it from happening.
Ensure team-wide knowledge. They got started by determining exactly how familiar their audience is with the idea of matching gifts. Once they had a baseline for knowledge, they made a plan to increase awareness across staff and volunteers.
Seek input from their stakeholders. Project leaders asked around to see what kinds of materials their team would find most valuable. As the organization’s fundraising staff are the ones who will be distributing the resources, it made sense to gather their opinions from the start.
Equip its fundraising team with matching gift materials. A nonprofit’s fundraising team plays a hands-on role in driving donor support. ACS made sure its team was ready to encourage matching gifts by providing staff and volunteers with helpful resources ahead of time.
Remember this: The more an internal team is prepared to proactively pursue matching gifts, the more effective a response it can expect.
P.S. Double the Donation’s Matching Gift Academy is free for current clients to learn from—and it contains a wealth of resources for organizations to supercharge their internal knowledge.
American Cancer Society’s External Matching Gift Resources
In order to combat the lack of matching gift awareness the organization was seeing, the ACS team took time to create donor-facing materials that provided educational context surrounding the programs.
These resources include—but are not limited to—the following:
A matching gift Q&A resource, complete with common inquiries and the appropriate responses.
An explainer doc that demonstrates how an individual will submit a matching gift to their employer.
A brief video that overviews the matching gift opportunity and visualizes how an individual will get involved.
Once the team had its matching gift materials created, it was time to share them with its network, both internally and externally. This allowed team members and supporters to grow their knowledge of the programs and ultimately participate on the organization’s behalf.
Not to mention, to further simplify the matching gift experience, the ACS features Double the Donation’s search tool in both its marketing materials and its video overview.
Get More Insights From the On-Demand Event Replay
We covered many of the most essential insights from the ACS matching gifts presentation in this overview. Still, there’s more to learn!
To hear the full conversation between our team and the American Cancer Society, get the webinar replay by filling out the form below.
Wrapping Up & Additional Resources
The American Cancer Society’s ability to double donations through matching gifts highlights the transformative power of this fundraising tool. By making it easy for donors to access matching gift opportunities, ACS has maximized the impact of each contribution.
Today, nonprofits of all shapes and sizes can learn from the American Cancer Society’s strategy to amplify their own fundraising efforts and make a greater difference. Matching gifts not only increase funds but also strengthen donor relationships, providing a win-win opportunity for the causes they serve.
Keep learning! Read our recommended resources to continue growing your knowledge on all things matching gifts:
![How to Track Corporate Sponsorships [A Nonprofit's Guide]](https://doublethedonation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DTD_How-to-Track-Corporate-Sponsorships-A-Nonprofits-Guide_Feature-1536x576.png)
360MatchPro Volunteer Hub rollout
Achieved SOC 2 Type 2 compliance
These strategic collaborations are designed to provide even more value to our clients by expanding access to powerful tools, platforms, and resources that complement our matching gift technology.
